Every year, many people experience a calf strain. A calf strain is simply a muscle tear located in the calf. The tear occurs due to a sudden, forceful contraction of the calf muscle.
What is a calf “whiplash” (muscle tear)?
A calf whiplash is a muscle tear high on the inner side of the calf, just below the knee pit. When the calf muscle contracts, it creates a plantar flexion of the foot (downward movement). In other words, the calf muscle enables the push-off movement. A sudden, powerful push-off or contraction can cause the muscle to tear usually a minor, partial tear.
Every year, many people experience a calf muscle tear, commonly known as a “calf strain” or “muscle pull.” A calf strain is a tear in the calf muscle caused by a sudden, forceful contraction.
What is a calf strain?
A calf strain is a muscle tear located high on the inner side of the calf, just below the knee crease. When the calf contracts, it produces a plantarflexion movement of the foot (pointing the toes downward). During powerful push-off movements, the calf muscle can partially tear.
Causes of a calf strain
The most common cause is sports activity. The muscle may be insufficiently warmed up due to cold weather or an inadequate warm-up. A sudden and forceful contraction then overloads the muscle, causing it to fail. Many athletes describe the sensation as being struck by a whip, hit by a stone or receiving a kick to the back of the lower leg.
Symptoms of a calf strain
Severe pain in the calf
Sharp, stabbing pain in the calf
Burning sensation in the muscle
Sometimes an audible “snap” is heard
Diagnosis and treatment with a calf brace
Once a calf strain is suspected, the muscle must be protected and given rest. Ice can be used shortly after the injury to reduce pain. Rest the muscle for several days to a week. After this period, gradual loading under the guidance of a physiotherapist is recommended. Full recovery typically takes 6–10 weeks.
To encourage proper healing, it is important to stretch the calf muscles gently so the muscle fibers regain length and alignment. Wearing a night splint can help maintain a prolonged stretch during sleep. Recommended options include:
Thuasne heel spur night splint
GO Medical universal night splint
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