Calf strains growth plate injuries

Physical Therapy for Calf Strains

The dreaded calf strain – during sport or exercise, many people will experience at least one in their lifetime. But for others, these strains can be more recurrent or severe. Regardless, physical therapy is a key component in recovering from calf strains. It reduces pain, improves mobility, and prevents possible re-injury. 

The calves have two main muscles: the gastrocnemius and the soleus. The gastrocnemius is the larger part of the calf, giving it its shape, and is critical for extending and flexing the foot and ankle. The soleus is located under the gastrocnemius and is crucial in standing and walking as it offers stability. PT focuses on restoring strength, reducing inflammation, and overall flexibility when these muscles are strained. 

At Evolution, our experienced PTs and DPTs can work around your schedule and help provide the comfort and support you need in recovery and prevention of calf strains.

What Is a Calf Strain?

A calf strain involves small tears in the muscle fibers in the calves. Calf strains typically occur when muscles are overextended or experience a sudden, forceful contraction. They are most common from physical movements that require repetitive or explosive actions. A strain can affect either the gastrocnemius or soleus or both. The severity of calf strains varies, ranging from mild overextension to partial or complete muscle tears.

A calf strain and a calf tear vary depending on the severity of the muscle damage. A calf strain refers to the overextension in the calf’s muscle fibers. Strains can be mild to moderate, depending on how many muscle fibers are damaged. A calf tear refers to a more severe injury that involves many muscle fibers being torn, or in worst cases, the entire muscle is torn from the tendon. Calf tears are more painful and severe compared to calf strains.

  • Calf strain (Mild): Mild pain or discomfort is found in the calf during movement. There might be some swelling and a slight tenderness in the calf. Cramping can be more frequent and there is difficulty in attempting to move.
  • Calf strain (Moderate): moderate pain and discomfort are found in the calf during movement. Swelling will be more noticeable and calves will ache consistently. Bruising is more prominent in moderate strains and physical activity can be difficult and overwhelming. 
  • Calf tear (Severe): Sharp and stabbing pain at the moment of injury. Swelling will be significant and immediate at the moment of the tear. Walking and moving becomes impossible and the legs cannot bear weight. The calf will be visibly deformed and bruising will show in the following hours after the injury.

Below are the primary causes of a strained calf:

  • Excessive Physical Activity: Intense or repetitive movements can place excessive stress on the calf muscles, especially in cases of running and jumping.
  • Sudden Movements: Abrupt movements like sudden stops or a change in direction can cause unexpected overstretching in the calves.
  • Improper Footwear: Wearing unsupportive shoes can lead to increased stress and greater exacerbation of the calves during physical activity.
  • Dehydration: Dehydrated muscles can have an effect on function and are prone to strains.
  • Inadequate Preparation: An improper warm-up before physical activity can leave calf muscles stiff and more prone to injury.

Yes, the pain of a calf strain can go away on its own with proper rest and self-care. Recovery time is dependent on strain, ranging between a few weeks to several months. Mild and moderate calf strains can heal between 2-6 weeks. With severe calf strains and calf tears, healing can take months and may require medical intervention either surgery or physical therapy. When it comes to self-care, there are a few steps you can take to ensure proper healing, known as the RICE method. Below are the steps:

  • Rest: Avoid physical activity that revolves around the calves, giving your muscles time to heal
  • Ice: Applying ice on a consistent basis every 2-3 hours for the first 48 hours will reduce swelling
  • Compression: Compression bandages are used to apply pressure and control swelling, bandages are meant to keep muscles firm but not too tight
  • Elevation: Keeping the calf elevated in relation to the body lowers the blood pressure in calves to reduce swelling

Although it is possible to treat calf strains independently, most are advised to seek physical therapy in order to quicken recovery time and rehabilitate the muscles.

Can a Physical Therapist Treat Calf Strains?

Physical Therapists are highly effective at treating your pain and overall weakness after calf strains. Pain tolerance and recovery time are different for everyone, which is why your therapist will work with you on a custom treatment regime that utilizes the current, medical best practices and adheres to your comfort level.

Physical therapists play a very important role in the recovery process for foot fractures. Following the initial healing period, physical therapy aims to:

Some treatments may include:

  • Ice Therapy
  • Compression
  • Manual Therapy
  • Stretching Exercises 
  • Strength Training
  • Electrical Stimulation

When to see a Physical Therapist for Calf Strains

Don’t fight a strained calf.  At Evolution Physical Therapy, we have locations in California, Colorado, Connecticut, and Long Island, with specialist PT providers that offer a range of physical therapy services and help to provide you with the treatment, education, and additional support you need on your road to recovery. Reach out to us today, by calling us to set up an appointment at a location near you, or filling out our Request an Appointment form.