Calf muscle overuse injuries are common among athletes, including runners, football players and soccer players. Additionally, "weekend warriors" who engage in weight-bearing sports requiring bursts of speed may not have sufficient strength to withstand the muscle strain.
People who walk for exercise may be vulnerable to calf strains if the weather is cold and their muscles are not warmed up sufficiently. Even a simple slip and fall or collision that involves the lower leg can injure the calf and require home or hospital treatment.
Exercise Restriction
Rest is a home treatment that addresses all facets of a muscle strain: pain, inflammation and time for healing. The body's inflammatory response and cellular rejuvenation processes need time to work.
The acute phase of injury lasts as long as leg pain and muscular swelling are profuse. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that during this period, exercise restrictions range form a day or two of full bed rest to limited activity with leg support until calf muscle pain fades.
Cold Therapy
Cold therapy is prescribed by the University at Buffalo Sports Medicine group for its athlete patients who suffer muscle strains. This treatment should begin as soon as symptoms arise, to address swelling and leg pain.
Sessions can last for up to 30 minutes, every four hours. While applying a cold compress, patients can prop up the calf with pillows, to above heart level, to get maximum comfort and reduction of inflammation.
The NYU Langone Medical Center points out that cold treatment can be replaced by heat therapy after the acute phase of calf strain. This eases soreness and helps to warm up the muscles prior to beginning gentle workouts.
Leg Support
A strained calf muscle results in tissue damage to a mild, moderate or severe degree. Higher grades of injury can restrict patients' abilities to walk. According to the MayoClinic.com website, unproductive lengthy bed rest can be avoided by using support aids. An Ace bandage and crutches or a cane will alleviate stress on the calf and improve mobility during a period of restricted exercise.
Medical Treatment
Nonprescription pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be taken for swelling, throbbing and leg pain. Serious injuries may warrant prescription opioid-based medications. MayoClinic.com reports that high-grade injuries, such as muscle strains that tear and rupture tissue, may require surgical restoration.
Exercise Therapy
Any degree of calf muscle damage merits rehabilitative therapy. The hard-working muscle group in the lower leg must bear most of the body's weight with a low level of stability. This is exacerbated during running or jumping sports.
MayoClinic.com suggests beginning exercise therapy when leg pain diminishes and gradually increasing the intensity. A professional physical therapy program provides the most effective treatment for the individual.
