Calf Strain

If the strain/tear is in the soleus muscle (deep to the gastrocnemius) the onset may be more gradual, and a tightening over time may be felt.

Like all muscle injuries this will be graded (1-3) according to the severity of the injury:

Grade 1 injury is a mild tear where only a few fibres (<5%) are damaged.

Grade 2 injury is a moderate tear where many fibres are damaged, but not all.

Grade 3 injury is complete rupture of the muscle where all fibres are torn.

• Acute pain in the calf – usually on the inside portion of the muscle
• Tenderness over the site of the strain or tear
• Pain on stretching the calf
• Occasionally with grade 2 and certainly with grade 3 tears there will be a gap in the muscle that can be felt or seen.

• Physical examination of the calf including calf muscle strength, length and palpation (feeling) tests.
• Scans are not usually needed but in persistent cases or suspected grade 3 injuries, an Ultrasound or MRI scan can be helpful in establishing a diagnosis of injury grade.

• Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
• Depending on the severity of symptoms, walking aids may be needed
• Graduated return to activity
• Massage to help with muscle tightness and pain
• Strengthening and stretching

Grade 3:

• Typically requires surgical repair.

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