Torn calf muscle

A torn calf muscle is a nasty injury that usually occurs suddenly. It can also occur due to overuse. Fortunately, the muscle can fully recover from a tear. Are you curious about more information, such as its causes and treatment? Then feel free to read on. We are happy to explain.

What is a torn calf muscle?

A calf muscle tear is also known as whiplash. A muscle consists, among other things, of muscle and connective tissue. In a torn muscle, both are usually damaged. Fortunately, a torn calf muscle can fully recover.

What is the cause?

A torn calf muscle can have several causes. In all cases, there is an acute overload on the muscle. The most common causes are:

• An accident or fall
• Engaging in a sprint or jump
• Prolonged overuse of the calf, which ultimately only needs a small amount of overuse to cause the muscle tear

The risk of a muscle tear in the calf can be increased by a number of factors. For example, it is more likely to happen due to too short or an incorrect warm-up, too fast a training regime, poor footwear or a locked ankle joint.

The symptoms of a torn calf muscle

The moment the muscle tears, you may feel a fierce pain in the calf. This may feel like a pulling sensation or as if you are getting a 'tap' against the calf. With a severe tear, you may also experience a snapping sound. Next, there may be bruising or swelling.

Stretching the calf can be very painful. Even pressing on the calf may hurt. The ability to continue walking depends on the severity of the tear. With a complete muscle tear, this is often not possible.

Treatment of a calf muscle tear

After a calf muscle tear, swelling usually occurs immediately. It may also turn blue. It is important to cool the calf as soon as possible. This will limit the swelling. In addition, it is important to elevate the calf regularly in the first few days. This will drain the fluid. It is also advised to put as little strain on the calf muscle as possible during the first few days. However, it is important to keep the circulation going. You can do this by moving calmly.

Recovery

After a few days, you can start walking again and build up the pressure a bit. You can also do some light stretching exercises. Do you feel pain? Then the calf muscle is overused. If so, try to take it easy for a few more days. As soon as you can do the above things again, it is important to rebuild the calf's stability and strength. Wearing a calf brace can provide support during recovery. You can usually pick up and build up sports again after a few weeks. With a severe muscle tear, however, this can take 6-10 weeks.