The calf comprises of 2 major muscles; the gastrocnemius and the soleus. A calf strain is characterized by tearing of one or more of the muscle fibres of one or both of the calf muscles. This can happen when the calf is placed under excessive or repetitive forces due to contraction or stretch.
Calf strains are classified from grade 1 to grade 3.
- Grade 1 Tear: a small number of fibres are torn resulting in some pain, but allowing full function.
- Grade 2 Tear: a significant number of fibres are torn with moderate loss of function.
- Grade 3 Tear: all muscle fibres are ruptured resulting in major loss of function.
What are the symptoms of a calf strain?
At the time of injury you may feel a sudden sharp pain or pulling sensation in the calf region. In minor strains, pain may be minimal allowing you to function normally. In more severe cases, you may experience severe pain, muscle spasm, weakness, and an inability to weight bear. Pain is typically experienced during activities such as walking (especially uphill), going up and down stairs, running, jumping, hopping, or standing on tip toes. Patients may also experience pain or stiffness after these activities with rest. Swelling, tenderness and bruising may also be present in the calf region.
How can physiotherapy help?
Depending on the severity of the calf tear you can expect to recover within two to eight weeks with appropriate treatment. Physiotherapy treatment can include soft tissue massage, anti-inflammatory advice, taping, stretching, acupuncture, ice or heat treatment, biomechanical correction and a gradual return to activity programme improving strength and function.
What causes a calf strain?
A calf strain is a tear of the calf muscle fibres, usually felt as a sudden sharp pain at the back of the lower leg. It often happens during a quick push-off, sprint or jump, and it is more common in sports with sudden acceleration and in people over 40.
- A sudden sprint, jump or change of pace
- Fatigue and inadequate warm-up
- Reduced calf strength or flexibility
How long does a calf strain take to heal?
Minor strains often settle within two to four weeks, while more significant tears take longer. A graded return to loading and running is important to reduce the risk of re-injury, which is common if you return too soon.
What you can do at home
- Use the RICE approach in the first few days to settle pain and swelling
- Begin gentle movement and loading as guided
- Keep up your prescribed calf strengthening exercises
Check with your physiotherapist before returning to running or sport.
Frequently asked questions about calf strains
When can I run again after a calf strain?
This depends on the severity and your progress with strengthening. A graded return guided by your physiotherapist reduces the risk of re-injury.
How do I know if it is a calf strain or something more serious?
Sudden severe pain, significant swelling or difficulty walking should be assessed, as these can point to a larger tear. A physiotherapist can check this for you.
Where can I get help on the North Shore?
Dynamic Physio treats calf and lower leg injuries at our Mairangi Bay, Long Bay and Milford clinics, and our physiotherapists are ACC-registered.