The calf is made up of two major muscles: the gastrocnemius, which is the large muscle on the back of the calf, and the soleus, which is the smaller muscle that runs closer to the side of the calf. Calf pain is usually the result of a muscle tear or strain. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of calf pain so you can treat it to prevent further damage.
About
Calf pain is common in athletes and nonathletes, and is caused by overuse, tight muscles or abrupt movements. Exercises such as running, jumping and heavy lifting can cause a strain in the muscle, which can tear or rupture if it is not allowed to heal properly. Symptoms of a strain or tear can range from slight discomfort to complete immobility.
Types
Calf muscle strains are classified into three grades. A grade one strain brings a twinge of pain in the calf. You might still be able to exercise, walk or run, but it will most likely feel tight and tender. This type of strain typically will last for two to five days.
A grade two strain is more intense. You will notice a sudden, sharp pain in the back of the lower leg. The calf will feel weak, and it will hurt to walk or do any kind movement on it. You will experience some swelling and moderate bruising. Your calf will most likely feel tight and sore for a week or longer.
A grade three strain is the most serious calf tear and is recognized by a severe, immediate pain in the back of the leg. Sometimes a popping sensation is felt. Walking or moving will be difficult, and you will not be able to contract or flex the calf muscles at all. You will notice considerable bruising and swelling, and it will be painful to the touch. If the calf muscle has completely ruptured, you can often see the muscle bunched up at the top of the calf.
Treatment
If the pain in your calf is a grade one or two, you can heal it through rest and ice. Recognize what activity is causing the pain and reduce or eliminate it until the symptoms are gone. Avoid running or playing through the pain because that will make it worse. Rest is the best way to let the calf heal. Ice can also help reduce the pain and inflammation. Wrap a thin towel around a bag of frozen vegetables or ice pack and apply it to the entire calf area three to four times a day for 10 to 15 minutes at a time.
For a grade three strain, go to a doctor. She can examine your calf to determine the level of damage and recommend a more aggressive treatment, if necessary. You might require physical therapy, medication or surgical repair if the calf muscle has completely ruptured.
Warning
The Mayo Clinic recommends seeing a doctor immediately if you are unable to walk or put any weight on your leg or if there are signs of extreme inflammation or infection such as a fever, redness and warmth to the touch. Also, it is important to see a doctor immediately if there is a sudden and severe pain in the calf for no apparent reason or if swelling in both legs develops.
Considerations
When the calf is healed and you are ready to resume activity, start back slowly. Give your body time to build back to its level prior to injury. Also, be sure to stretch and strengthen the surrounding area to help rebuild flexibility and muscular balance.
