A calf muscle injury occurs when a muscle becomes overstretched and tears, according to Medline Plus. This can be caused by excessive physical activity, improper warm-up or poor flexibility. In addition, the Mayo Clinic states that acute strains can occur from slipping, running, jumping or with lifting heavy weights, such as when performing the calf raise exercise. Calf muscle injuries should be treated with rest, ice and over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory medications. Look for specific symptoms if you suspect a calf injury.
Pain
Pain is the most obvious and immediate symptom associated with a calf muscle injury, according to the Mayo Clinic. The severity of your pain will depend on the severity of your calf muscle injury. Pain will likely be immediate and will be worse with walking or with pointing your toes. To control your pain, apply ice immediately after the injury for 20 minutes, then, remove for 20 minutes. Repeat this cycle as often as possible for the first few days. You may also take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that will also help in relieving your pain.
Swelling
The Mayo Clinic states that your calf will likely swell after an injury. Swelling is caused by the increase in fluid in a particular area of the body after injury. A muscle stretch or tear may also tear blood vessels, which will result in bleeding near the area of injury. Controlling swelling is important, because it can reduce the severity of pain: the excess fluid can increase the pressure around the area of injury and activate nerves related to pain. In addition, swelling can interfere with the healing process of a muscle tear. Control swelling by applying ice to the injured area, compressing the injured area with a bandage and by elevating the injured area above the level of your heart.
Limited Movement
Your calf injury will likely limit your range of motion, according to the Mayo Clinic. Pain and swelling may prevent you from fully flexing or extending your ankle due to your calf injury. Focus on controlling your pain and swelling for the first three to four days after injury. Once you feel your calf injury is improving, you may begin performing light exercises and stretching to prevent stiffness and promote flexibility in your calf muscle.
