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Calf strains are a common complaint we see at Spectrum Healthcare in Macquarie Park, impacting athletes and active individuals alike. The calf is a complex group of muscles, including the gastrocnemius, soleus, tibialis posterior, and plantaris, all working together to power your ankle. Injury to any of these muscles can cause significant pain and limit your mobility. Understanding the causes and symptoms is the first step to effective treatment and a full return to activity. Our team of experienced physiotherapists and sports chiropractors is here to guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.

How Calf Strains Happen

Different activities can lead to different calf muscle injuries:

• Gastrocnemius: This outer calf muscle is frequently injured during explosive activities such as sprinting, jumping, or rapidly changing direction. The quick acceleration when the muscle is stretched (knee straight, toes up) can lead to strain.
• Soleus: Located deeper in the calf, the soleus is frequently injured due to overuse, particularly during activities that involve repetitive plantar flexion (toe pointing), such as long-distance running. Soleus injuries are more likely to occur when the knee is bent during activity.
• Plantaris: Though less common, plantaris strains often occur alongside gastrocnemius injuries. They happen during forceful ankle movements like a misstep or awkward landing.
• Tibialis Posterior: Overuse is often blamed for tibialis posterior injuries, which are frequently seen in runners or hikers on uneven surfaces.

Recognising the Symptoms of a Calf Strain

The location and nature of your pain can help pinpoint the injured muscle:

• Gastrocnemius Strain
  • Sudden, sharp pain in the upper calf, sometimes described as a "pop."
  • Tenderness and swelling in the muscle belly.
  • Pain when stretching the calf (toes pulled up) or pushing off (standing on tiptoes).
  • Difficulty walking
• Soleus Strain
  • Deep, aching pain in the lower calf, often developing gradually.
  • Stiffness or tightness, especially after activity.
  • Pain when putting weight on the leg, particularly with the knee bent.
  • Less swelling than with a gastrocnemius strain.
• Plantaris Strain
  • Mild, localised pain in the mid-calf.
  • Pain during ankle and knee movements, especially when straightening the knee.
• Tibialis Posterior Strain
  • Pain along the inner ankle or deep in the calf, potentially radiating into the foot's arch.
  • Swelling or tenderness near the inside of the ankle.
  • Discomfort during activities requiring foot stabilisation.
  • In chronic cases, possible arch collapse or a flattened foot appearance.

When is Imaging Needed?

While not always necessary, imaging can help us assess the extent of your calf strain:

• Ultrasound: Often the first step, ultrasound can detect the extent of muscle damage and rule out other potential causes of calf pain.
• MRI: Considered the gold standard, MRI provides detailed images of the calf muscles, aiding in the differentiation of injuries to various structures. This is particularly beneficial for plantaris strains or complex injuries.
• X-ray & CT Scan: Typically not used for calf strains unless a bone injury is suspected.

How We Address Calf Strains at Spectrum Healthcare (Macquarie Park):

Our physio and sports chiro team use a range of evidence-based techniques to help you recover:

• Acute Management
  RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
• Manual Therapy
  Techniques like massage, cupping, and dry needling to reduce pain and swelling, and improve tissue mobility.
• Joint Mobilisation
  Restoring proper ankle and foot joint movement.
• Rehabilitation and Reconditioning
  A supervised program of strengthening, balance, and functional exercises to rebuild strength, improve stability, and prevent re-injury.
• Return-to-Sport Protocols
  Gradual progression to ensure you're ready to return to your sport safely.
• Technology
  We use advanced technology, such as Game Ready (hot and cold contrast therapy) and Alter-G (anti-gravity treadmill), to optimise your recovery.

Why Choose Spectrum Healthcare for Your Calf Strain?

At Spectrum Healthcare in Macquarie Park, we offer a comprehensive approach to calf strain treatment. Our team of experienced physiotherapists and sports chiropractors work collaboratively to provide personalised care, utilising the latest techniques and technology to help you return to your active life as quickly and safely as possible.