If your calves are unusually tight, it's most likely you've strained them through excessive exercise without properly warming up. Typically, tightness in the calf muscles abates within hours or days through gentle stretching. In some case it can lead to Achilles tendonitis, also a relatively minor inflammation near the heel. Acupuncture can relieve strained muscles, especially when combined with practiced such as compression, the application of ice and moxibustion, another modality of traditional Chinese medicine. If you have an acute or long-lasting tightness in your calves, consult your doctor before seeking further treatment.
Understanding Muscle Strain
A strain is caused by the stretching and tearing of a muscle or tendon, resulting in an inflammation. Treatment for strains is largely preventative; trainers and physical therapists routinely recommend stretching and warm-ups to prevent the sudden force on unprepared muscles which results in a strain. According to traditional Chinese medicine, strains manifest an external stagnation of the blood and of the qi, or vital energy. TCM and acupuncture view illness according to four sets of opposing qualities; a symptom might be hot or cold, interior or exterior, in excess or deficiency and yin or yang. To restore health, an acupuncturist first enables the stagnant blood and qi to flow and then restores healthful circulation throughout the body.
Acute Cases
How an acupuncturists addresses a tight calf depends on the acuteness of the problem. For an acute case, it's advisable to apply ice and compression to the calf muscles throughout the first 24 hours. Acupuncture is typically applied to specific points on the ear and corresponding points on the opposite limb. In addition to the acupuncture, a TCM practitioner may recommend cupping, holding a large cup over the affected area, or herbal treatments.
Chronic Strain
If you regularly notice tightness and strain at your calves, your acupuncturist may apply needles to the ah shi points, particularly tender areas. Electro-stimulation is another option in serious cases, used in the same method as traditional acupuncture, but replacing regular needles with electrified ones. If your acupuncturist does not find an underlying stagnation of qi, it may be necessary to stimulate both local points and corresponding distal points. Supplementary treatments may include moxibustion, a TCM treatment that uses heat, as well as deep, penetrating massage.
Until You Get Acupuncture
If you don't have access to acupuncture right away, follow the RICE protocol in caring for your calf: rest, ice, compress and elevate. The initial 24 to 48 hours are the most crucial time to abide by the four guidelines. Avoid putting any weight on the affected leg, using a crutch or cane as necessary. Use an ice pack or a bag of ice cubes wrapped in towel to keep your calf cool. Ice at intervals of 20 minutes at a time, four to eight times each day. In between icing, keep the area compressed with an elastic bandage. Follow instructions or consult with a health professional to apply the elastic bandage correctly, without applying excessive pressure. Finally, keep the leg elevated as much as possible. As a rule of thumb, keep it above your heart.
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