Sudden and severe burning sensation in the calf muscle during running can result from a number of factors. The calf itself is particularly vulnerable to injury, being one of the first of the leg muscles to endure the impact each time your foot hits the running surface. Identifying the type of calf injury can help you to begin addressing treatment and further injury prevention.
Anatomy
The calf is comprised of three muscles: two heads of the gastrocnemeius---one lateral and one medial---and the soleus, located behind the shin bone. The gastrocnemeius is involved in ankle motion and knee extension, while the soleus helps accommodate ankle movement and foot extension. All three bear considerable stress during running.
Warm-up/Over-running
Sudden burning in the calf muscle can be attributed to several potential causes. Insufficient stretching and warm-up routines rob the muscle of the chance to loosen up. As a result, a tight calf muscle will not adequately absorb the shock of the pavement or treadmill. Too much hill work or a sudden increase in mileage can also catch the calf muscle unprepared for extra stress. Burning can be exacerbated when the runner tries to compensate for the pain by shifting the impact of each stride to the front of the foot, rather than the heel, according to the Runners Rescue website.
Hydration
Insufficient hydration can also contribute to sudden calf burning while running. Running causes the body to sweat out salt that is important fuel to a properly functioning calf. Failure to sufficiently hydrate before a run can significantly increase the potential of a mid-run cramp or burning sensation. Drinking water or a sports drink before, during and after a run can help avoid that circumstance.
Treatment
Applying an ice pack to the calf muscle can instantaneously provide relief from painful swelling. Some ice packs are constructed to be specially applied to such muscles. Taking an anti-inflammatory medication can further reduce post-run swelling. After an injury has been sustained, a runner should take a few days off to allow the calf to heal. During this time, the calf can be massaged and a calf sleeve can be worn, both of which can help speed recovery, according to the Cool Running website.
Prevention/Solution
Methodical stretching is the best way to prevent future occurrences of painful calf burning. The traditional calf stretch requires that you stand against a wall with one leg stretched out straight behind you. Slowly lower your heel to the ground as you press with your hands against the wall, allowing the calf to fully stretch. This routine should be repeated with the other calf until both legs are sufficiently loosened up prior to a run. In addition, simple heel lifts can help build calf strength and avoid injury.
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