Calf tendon pain is as common as it is impactful. If you are a runner, gym enthusiast, or professional athlete, suffering from pain in your calf can affect your performance. In your everyday life, experiencing pain in your lower leg can inhibit your mobility, reduce your work performance, and get in the way of even the simplest of tasks.
In most cases, calf tendon pain is a temporary condition – like an overworked muscle – that can be easily addressed with at-home remedies. However, sometimes that nagging pain you feel in the back of your lower leg can persist for weeks or months and indicate a more serious, underlying condition that requires specialized treatment.
Fortunately, there are more options available beyond complex procedures. At NextPain Care, our comprehensive approach helps address the pain caused by inflammation at the root of your chronic calf issues. By focusing on a whole-person approach, you can work towards regaining your musculoskeletal health and enhancing your quality of life. Our 3-level system prioritizes fundamental, minimally invasive care, tailored to meet your specific needs. Learn how in this guide.
Calf Anatomy: Muscles, Ligaments, and Tendons
Calf tendon pain usually develops as a result of an injury, such as a strain, or due to an inflammatory condition, like tendonitis. It can cause severe or ongoing pain, which can worsen over time and, eventually, make simple daily actions like walking or running difficult.
To understand the causes, risk factors, and prognosis of this condition, let’s take a step back and explore the anatomy of the calf.
The lower leg is a highly complex biomechanical structure that plays a vital role in locomotion. In particular, the calf is responsible for enabling those movements that involve explosive power or endurance. It also supports weight-bearing, redistributes loads, absorbs shock, and allows you to “lock” your knee or rotate your ankle. You rely on your calf daily, during activities such as running, walking, or when standing up from a sitting or squatting position.
Typically, the calf refers to the muscles located in the posterior aspect of the lower leg:
- Gastrocnemius. This is one of the main muscles in the calf. It is located at the back of the lower leg, and you can see its outline just under the skin. This muscle attaches to both the inside and the outside of your thigh bone (femur) through two heads and runs down the leg to attach to the Achilles tendon. The gastrocnemius connects the ankle joint to the knee joint and enables the movements of these joints. These roles make it a critical muscle in the calf, but one that is also highly prone to injuries like strains.
- Soleus. The soleus is a second vital muscle in the calf. It has a wide, flat appearance and sits deeper into the calf structure, so its outline isn’t easily visible through the skin. This muscle starts just below the knee and runs down to the Achilles tendon. Its main function is to manage the movement of the ankle and stabilize the tibia. Since this muscle only crosses one joint (the ankle), it is less prone to injuries.
- Plantaris. The plantaris is a smaller muscle that connects the gastrocnemius and the soleus. Functionally, it does not have a main role and is absent in about 7-20% of limbs.
These muscles are connected to the bones in the knee and ankle joints through a structure of ligaments. These include:
- The gastrocnemius tendon. This tendon connects the lower part of the gastrocnemius muscle to the heel. It develops into the calcaneal (Achilles) tendon above the heel.
- Tendon plantaris. This tendon stems from the plantaris and blends into the Achilles tendon above the heel.
- Posterior tibial tendon. This tendon attaches to the lower part of the calf muscles and runs through the ankle joint, behind the medial malleolus, i.e. the inside bump of your ankle.
Any of the structures of the tendon can be affected by pain. This symptom is usually described as a dull ache or sharp pain that stems from the lower back, behind the shinbone, and radiates through the leg. Below, we’ll explore the most common causes of calf tendon pain.
Common Causes Of Pain In The Tendon Of The Calf
Given the complex nature of the calf – as well as the fact that it’s involved in virtually all daily movements – it isn’t uncommon to experience injuries and pain in the lower leg.
However, when it persists or worsens, it is crucial not to overlook calf tendon pain. Most causes of pain in your lower leg muscles are harmless and treatable with at-home remedies. Nonetheless, in some cases, calf tendon pain may indicate a more serious, underlying condition that requires medical care.
Below, we’ll look at some of the most common causes of pain in the calf tendon, but remember, you should seek medical attention if your pain is severe or persistent.
Overuse
Overuse is a common cause of calf tendon pain. It can happen if you are involved in intense or high-impact sports, such as football, rugby, athletics, and dancing.
Overuse can have a cascade of consequences on your calf structure and your lower leg in general. Firstly, overworked muscles can lead to muscular pain and discomfort. Additionally, pushing through the pain and continuing to exert your calves can cause swelling and irritation, which ultimately lead to tendon pain. Fortunately, overuse can be addressed with adequate rest, recovery periods, and improved athletic form.
Cramps
Cramps affecting the calf are an extremely common condition, which is estimated to affect around a third of adults. They tend to be more frequent at nighttime, thus also impacting sleep, levels of fatigue during the daytime, and stress.
Cramps are involuntary muscle movements that occur when the muscles suddenly contract – or shorten. This causes a short but intense sensation of pain. This type of cramp, which affects the muscle of the calf, is commonly known as “Charley Horse” and can be extremely painful, causing knotting and twitching sensations. Additionally, while a cramp can be over in a matter of seconds, the muscle can remain sore for hours afterward, which can impact walking and athletic performance.
There can be several causes of calf muscle cramps. The most common causes include:
- Dehydration (we’ll look at this risk factor in more detail below)
- Muscle fatigue (due to high-intensity exercise)
- Muscle imbalance
- Nutritional imbalance, especially iron, calcium, potassium, B12, and D31 deficiencies
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Taking medications like Celebrex (celecoxib) and Naprosyn (naproxen)
Although involuntary movements of your calf muscle can last just a few seconds, the average duration of a nocturnal calf muscle cramp is nine minutes, which makes this symptom extremely debilitating and disruptive.
Sudden Movement Or Sudden Stop Of The Movement
Sudden movements or abrupt stops are among the causes of calf tendon pain, often seen among active individuals and athletes. In particular, calf injuries that lead to calf tendon pain, like strains, are particularly prevalent in sports that require high-speed running, lots of starting and stopping, or heavy wear and tear from ongoing activity.
Given how complex the calf structure is, it isn’t surprising that some of the muscles and tendons, particularly the gastrocnemius muscle, are prone to injury. Nonetheless, if strains are not properly managed from the get-go, they can increase the risk of re-injury and prolonged recovery, which can lead to chronic pain.
Dehydration
Dehydration can be a major cause of calf tendon pain. When your body lacks enough fluids, the whole musculoskeletal system is affected. For example, dehydration can cause your muscles, including the calf muscles, to work much harder than they should. This increased effort often leads to overuse and exertion, which in turn results in irritation, inflammation, swelling, and pain.
Additionally, dehydration is directly correlated with electrolyte imbalance. Electrolytes are minerals that influence muscle function and nerve signaling. Dehydration-induced electrolyte imbalances can disrupt these signals, which may cause involuntary muscle movements – such as cramps – and pain.
Dehydration is a silent threat that should not be underestimated. Today, around three-quarters of the US population is estimated to suffer from chronic dehydration, a condition that is even more prevalent and impactful among the elderly.
Related Conditions To Calf Tendon Pain
In some cases, pain localized in the calf area can indicate another, more serious condition. Ignoring your symptoms may cause you to let a health disorder go untreated, which paves the way for severe complications.
Below, we’ll look at some of the conditions most often linked to calf tendon pain. Nonetheless, it is important to keep in mind that this symptom can also arise from other disorders, including:
Sciatica
When the sciatic nerve is irritated, entrapped, compressed, or damaged, you may experience pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in several aspects of your leg, including the calf.
Peripheral neuropathy
This condition refers to pain, numbness, and weakness caused by damage to nerves in the peripheral system (those located outside the brain and the spinal cord). If one or more of the nerves that innervate the lower leg are affected, you may experience tendon pain caused by nerve damage. Peripheral neuropathy is more commonly caused by diabetes, but risk factors include smoking, nutritional deficiencies, exposure to toxins, and certain viruses.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
This is a serious condition that occurs when blood clots form in the deep veins of the leg. It requires immediate medical attention.
Compartment syndrome
Compartment syndrome happens when excessive pressure builds within your muscles. This pressure may interrupt blood flow, causing serious muscle and nerve damage that leads to intense calf pain.
Now, let’s look at the most commonly diagnosed conditions when experiencing calf tendon pain.
Baker’s Cyst
Baker’s cyst (BC) is not a true cyst; it’s a fluid-filled sac that develops at the back of the knee. It occurs when the body produces joint fluid in excess, which can happen due to conditions like arthritis or cartilage damage.
Typically, BC causes discomfort and stiffness in and around the knee area. You might also feel a bulge or a sense of tightness behind the knee. It is estimated that nearly 26% of people with knee pain have a Baker’s cyst. If left untreated, more severe symptoms may develop, which include sharp pain, especially when bending or straightening your knee.
BC can also cause pain in the lower leg and around the tendons and muscles in the calf. This usually occurs when the cyst ruptures or leaks, which causes the fluid to shift down the calf, triggering tension and inflammation in the tendons.
Tendonitis
Tendonitis is a condition that develops when one or more tendons become inflamed. Some of the most common causes of tendonitis include repetitive movements and sudden injury. For example, athletes who often run or jump may put undue pressure on their tendons, which can cause inflammation.
Symptoms of tendonitis typically include pain, swelling, and difficulty in moving the affected area. You’ll notice that these symptoms get worse when you use the affected tendon. Tendonitis is also a common cause of calf tendon pain.
This condition can affect any of the tendons in the lower leg, from the Achilles tendon (which we will see below) to the posterior tibial tendon. When these tendons become inflamed, you may experience symptoms like a sharp or burning pain in the calf, as well as discomfort when moving your lower leg or ankle. Inflamed tendons are also affected by swelling and stiffness, which can put pressure on the calf muscle, limit their range of movement, and make muscle movements more difficult.
Achilles Tendonitis Or Rupture
The Achilles tendon – the largest tendon in the body – is a strong fibrous cord that connects the muscles of the back of your calf to your heel bone. This tendon is extraordinarily resistant and capable of withstanding loads of multiple times a person’s body weight. Nonetheless, stress, injury, overuse, and poor posture can take a toll on this tendon’s ability to remain strong, healthy, and flexible.
That’s when conditions like tendonitis, tears, and ruptures occur:
- Achilles tendonitis occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed.
- Tears occur when the fibers of the tendon become damaged. This is also called a strain.
- Ruptures, or complete tears, occur when there is severe damage to the tendon. This type of injury can lead to excruciating pain and permanent disability. They may also require surgery.
There can be many causes that lead to pathologies of the Achilles tendon. However, some of the most common causes include overuse, sudden increases in physical activity, or not warming up properly before exercising. The main symptoms include pain and swelling around the heel and difficulty walking or moving the foot.
In severe cases, you might experience an inability to bear loads on the ankle or poor stability, leading to weak calf movements and reduced athletic performance. Sudden tendon tears may also be accompanied by a “popping” sound at the time of injury.
Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy refers to a disorder that occurs when the Achilles tendon degenerates due to repetitive strain. Unlike tendonitis, which is an acute inflammation, tendinopathy is a chronic condition. Usually, it derives from the fact that the tendon isn’t able to repair itself or heal after microtrauma (i.e. minor tears). This could be due to inadequate recovery periods, excessive stress, or inhibited self-healing capabilities.
Factors such as continuous pressure on the tendon, aging, changes in training regimes, or wearing unsuitable footwear can also contribute to the development of this disorder. Given the essential role that the Achilles tendon plays in the functioning of the calf structure as a whole, it is easy to see how this condition can lead to chronic pain and dysfunction of the lower leg and ankle. Today, it is estimated that around 6% of the population will have some form of Achilles tendinopathy during their lifetime.
Calf Muscle Strain
A calf muscle strain is a common injury that typically occurs due to sudden bursts of acceleration or rapid changes in direction, which are movements that can overstretch the muscles in your calf. Two muscles in particular, the gastrocnemius and the soleus, are often affected.
The gastrocnemius muscle, due to its length and complexity, is especially prone to injury. A strain in this muscle might cause instant calf pain, swelling, or even bruising. In severe cases, you might hear a “pop,” followed by extreme pain that gets in the way of normal activities like walking. The soleus muscle helps lift the heel off the ground and stabilizes your posture during movements. Strain in this muscle often manifests as deep soreness or tightness, particularly when pressing on your Achilles tendon or walking on your tiptoes.
Both muscle strains can result in minor to moderate tears in the muscle fibers. Given how these muscles are connected to the different tendons in the calf, it is easy to see that the damage will extend to these bands of connective tissue, ultimately adding complexity to this disorder. If not addressed, worsening damage can lead to discomfort, weakness, limited motion, and a higher risk of recurring injuries.
Plantaris Tendonitis
Plantaris tendonitis refers to inflammation in the plantaris tendon, which, as we have seen above, is a thin section of connective tissue running through your calf. Not everyone has this peculiar tendon – but, if present, it can suffer injuries and contribute to calf issues. Typically, this tendon can become inflamed due to an overuse injury or if other components of the calf around it are inflamed, damaged, or irritated.
Common symptoms of plantaris tendonitis are similar to those typical of tendonitis: pain, tenderness, and swelling in the calf area, particularly along the inside of the leg. However, what makes plantaris tendonitis a complex condition is the fact that it is seldom recognized and often underdiagnosed – even when imaging tests like MRI are used. This can let inflammation and damage go untreated, which can lead to complications.
Popliteus Tendinitis
Popliteus tendonitis involves inflammation in the popliteus tendon, which links your thigh bone to the popliteus muscle, which is located under the knee. This tendon and its corresponding muscle work together to stabilize and rotate your knee.
Inflammation to this tendon often occurs as a consequence of overuse or tears, and it can cause discomfort above the calf and around the side and back of the knee. These symptoms can worsen when walking or running downhill. In rare instances, this tendon can rupture due to trauma – like a direct blow to the knee – leading to knee pain and bleeding in the knee joint.
When To Seek Professional Help
As we have seen above, calf tendon pain can emerge as a result of overuse or muscle fatigue. Think, for example, of the discomfort you experience after an intense workout or extreme physical activity.
However, in some cases, there’s much more to this symptom. Because of this, if you are in doubt about the nature of your pain or your symptoms seem to be getting worse, you should immediately contact your healthcare provider.
Some telltale signs that may be time to seek professional help include:
- Your pain is persistent or worsening.
- The pain is so severe that it gets in the way of your everyday activities, thus causing disability.
- The calf or ankle areas are swollen.
- You are unable to walk comfortably on the affected side.
- You have experienced a severe, direct blow to the lower leg.
- You can see a deformity in the lower leg.
- You are experiencing calf pain that occurs at night or during periods of rest.
- You experience signs of an infection, such as fever, warmth, and redness.
- The pain is accompanied by tingling and numbness.
- The leg is unusually cold or pale.
- You have abnormal fluid retention.
- You have other unusual symptoms, like breathing problems.
- You have other conditions, like varicose veins.
If you have been sitting for a long time (e.g. you’ve been on a flight) and you are now experiencing the symptoms of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), you should seek immediate medical care. These symptoms include swelling, pain, tenderness, and red or discolored skin in the affected leg, often with a sensation of warmth. It is important to keep in mind that, without adequate medical care, DVT can lead to recurring episodes of DVT in around 25% of people, post-thrombotic syndrome in 43% of patients, and death in 6% of cases.
Diagnosing The Pain In The Tendon Calf
Diagnosing calf tendon pain isn’t always straightforward. Many patients are often dismissed, and their symptoms are classed as a consequence of exertion. However, if you have noticed that the pain is getting worse, you should ensure to undergo all necessary tests and obtain an accurate diagnosis. Here are some of the diagnostic tools your doctor may use to determine what’s causing your calf tendon pain.
Physical Examination
A physical examination is often the first step in diagnosing what’s causing your calf tendon pain. Your healthcare provider will inspect your lower leg and use methods like palpation to gauge an understanding of your symptoms’ location, nature, and severity.
This involves putting gentle pressure on your leg to identify any areas of swelling or tenderness. They’ll also watch out for signs of warmth or redness, indicating possible inflammation, and test the flexibility of your foot, ankle, and knee to assess your range of motion.
What’s more, your doctor will check your reflexes and pulses in your leg, ankle, and foot to determine the quality of the blood circulation in your leg, as well as the responsiveness of your nervous system. This part of the test is used to rule out systemic disorders that may be affecting one or more of your body’s systems, such as neurological conditions.
If your doctor suspects a specific condition, specialized diagnostic tests may be recommended. For example, if your symptoms point to an Achilles tendon rupture, the Thompson test can help confirm this diagnosis. In this test, as you lie down with your foot extended off the table, your doctor will squeeze your calf muscle. If your toes don’t flex downward, it may be because of a ruptured Achilles tendon.
Imaging Of The Area
Following your initial physical examination, your doctor may recommend you undergo certain imaging tests. These will provide a detailed look at the complex structures in your calf, helping to pinpoint the source of your pain. There are several types of imaging tests: some are more efficient in diagnosing soft tissue abnormalities, while others are better equipped to show problems with your bones.
- X-rays. These are the most common imaging techniques, used to determine if any bone breakages or fractures are causing your discomfort.
- MRIs. Magnetic resonance imaging can help provide a clearer image of the soft tissue of your calf, including tendons, muscles, and ligaments.
- Ultrasound. A vascular study, which is a specific type of ultrasound, assesses the blood flow in your veins and arteries, ensuring a clot isn’t the root cause of your pain.
Examining Medical History
Understanding your medical history is a crucial part of diagnosing calf tendon pain, and it can even highlight some tendencies and genetic factors that may make you more prone to this symptom.
Before seeing your healthcare provider, prepare some notes about your symptoms that could aid in the diagnosis. Key information includes:
- When the pain first started
- The nature of the pain – sharp, dull, etc.
- If it occurs at rest or during certain activities
- If the pain intensifies in the night
- Any other symptoms you’re experiencing, like numbness or swelling
These details alone provide valuable clues about what’s causing your discomfort. For example, pain during specific activities may point to a tendon strain, while numbness could indicate nerve-related issues.
Nonetheless, your overall health history is equally important. Be sure to tell your doctor about any recent or old injuries, health conditions, and medications you are taking.
Blood Tests
Blood tests are effective tools in the diagnosis of calf tendon pain, particularly when inflammation or clots are suspected. Some key tests your doctor may order include:
- The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) tests, both of which can detect general inflammation often associated with infections.
- The D-dimer test, used in diagnosing conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism. A positive result indicates the presence of protein fragments (D-dimers) released during blood clot breakdown, pointing to the existence of a clot in your body.
Together, these tests provide valuable insights and ensure a more precise analysis of your clinical picture, which can guide treatment decisions.
Immediate Treatment Of A Painful Calf
As we have seen above, in most cases, calf tendon pain is caused by an inflammatory condition – like tendonitis – that leads to discomfort, swelling, and pain. Fortunately, there is a lot that can be done at home to ease your symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve the function of your lower leg, ankle, and foot.
Below, we’ll look at the most commonly used self-care methods, which can help you during flare-ups or when your pain isn’t so intense.
Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE) Method
The RICE method is often the first course of action in managing calf pain. It can help lessen acute inflammation and manage flare-ups of pain if you have been diagnosed with a chronic condition.
RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation:
- Rest supports the healing process and reduces strain on the leg, thus preventing further injury.
- Ice limits the circulation of blood around the area of injury, which reduces swelling and boosts the function of your joints.
- Compression provides support to the leg and further reduction of swelling and inflammation by restricting blood flow.
- Elevation also reduces swelling and inflammation. Be sure to elevate the lower leg above the heart for more efficient results.
If your pain is severe or worsening, be sure to look beyond at-home remedies and immediately contact an expert healthcare provider.
Stretches
Stretches could be a beneficial at-home treatment to manage pain, especially when performed correctly and regularly. Some of the benefits of stretching exercises for your calves include:
- Improved muscle flexibility and strength, thus boosting overall musculoskeletal health
- Preventing injuries caused by reduced mobility like trips or falls
- Improved blood circulation, which enhances the supply of healing oxygen and nutrients
- Relieved pressure on nerves, ligaments, and tendons, which can improve lower limb function
While these benefits are an excellent starting point to regain the health of your calf, don’t forget that proper technique is of vital importance. Without the guidance of an expert, it is often too easy to cause further injury to your lower legs, thus aggravating your condition.
Conventional Treatment Options For Calf Pain
If at-home remedies have not worked and your calf pain is debilitating or worsening, your doctor may recommend you follow a treatment plan, which usually involves medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications.
Although surgery isn’t common for this type of problem, certain surgical interventions may help repair severe damage, such as a torn Achilles tendon. In the following sections, we’ll look at how the different conventional methods are used to address calf tendon pain.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy tends to be the first port of call when it comes to choosing a therapeutic approach for orthopedic conditions.
When it comes to treating calf tendon pain, some conditions, like Achilles tendonitis and strains, may respond well to targeted exercises and physical therapy as a whole. On the other hand, while physical therapy is generally recommended to improve overall health, conditions like DVT don’t benefit as much from this approach.
Because of this, a physical therapy plan is usually prescribed following a comprehensive diagnosis, and it is used not only to help a patient manage pain but also to address the root of the problem.
The approach taken will largely depend on what’s causing the calf tendon pain.
- If the pain is due to Achilles tendonitis, your healthcare provider will guide you through exercises aimed at making your calf muscles stronger and the Achilles tendon more flexible, according to guidelines.
- Physical therapy can also help address risk factors that may be aggravating your condition, such as poor posture, abnormal mechanics, weak or tight muscles, and joint problems.
- If you suffer from disorders like arthritis, an occupational therapist can also help you better understand how to take part in daily activities without placing your calf’s components under undue pressure.
- Most physical therapists will also recommend gentle passive stretching and isotonic exercises to support the healing process of tendon injuries like tears.
Surgery
Although surgery is rarely needed to treat calf pain, surgical interventions may help address certain problems that lead to this symptom, such as a ruptured Achilles tendon, blood clots, or a blocked artery.
Several interventions may be recommended if you have a severe orthopedic issue or your pain is getting in the way of your daily life:
Calf lengthening procedures. A tight calf can lead to a whole host of problems, including heel pain (e.g. Achilles tendinopathy), plantar fasciitis, and deformities like flat feet, bunions, and neuromas. Calf lengthening operations aim to improve the range of extension of the tendons in the calf to alleviate these problems. It is carried out by cutting through the tendon to “release” it. Some common lengthening procedures include:
- Medial head of gastrocnemius release (MHGR)
- Gastrocnemius lengthening
- Soleus lengthening
- Achilles tendon lengthening (rarer, usually carried out to correct severe deformities in children)
Tendon repair procedures. Tendon repair procedures are used to address severe tears or ruptures in the tendons. During the procedure, the surgeon performs a cut through the skin to access the tendon, and then the ends of the torn tendon are re-joined together surgically. It is more commonly performed for Achilles tendon damage.
Other surgical procedures may also be used to address specific problems. For example, if your calf pain derives from a compressed or entrapped sciatic nerve, decompression surgery can help restore the nerve’s function while easing your symptoms.
If you are an athlete, these surgeries can help you return to sports in 62%-96% of cases. Generally, surgery should only be considered as a last option.
Medications
There are several types of medications that can be used to ease calf tendon pain. These include:
- NSAIDs. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, like ibuprofen or naproxen, work by inhibiting enzymes called cyclooxygenases. These enzymes produce prostaglandins, which trigger pain and inflammation. By reducing prostaglandins, NSAIDs effectively alleviate swelling and pain in the calf tendon. Other types of painkillers that block pain signals from the injured site may also be used.
- Corticosteroids. Corticosteroid injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected area. These steroids mimic the action of cortisol, a hormone naturally found in the body that suppresses immune responses and inflammation.
- Opioids. These are powerful pain relievers that bind to opioid receptors in the nervous system and the brain. This binding action gets in the way of pain signals, significantly reducing your perception of pain in the calf tendon.
Other medications may also be prescribed for specific conditions. For example, if your pain derives from nocturnal cramps, your doctor may recommend muscle relaxants, calcium channel blockers, or magnesium supplements. On the other hand, if you have DVT or a blood clot, blood thinners (anticoagulants) like Xarelto (rivaroxaban) may be used.
It’s important to keep in mind that medications should only be used to ease flare-ups and under the supervision of a specialist. If you suffer from chronic calf tendon pain, your healthcare provider can help manage your treatment plan effectively and minimize potential side effects. For many patients, medications provide a safe and effective option when used appropriately.
The NextPain Care Approach to Calf Tendon Pain
Whether it occurs in the form of nocturnal cramps, due to overworked lower legs, or as a consequence of musculoskeletal conditions, calf tendon pain is extremely common. However, its causes are often underdiagnosed, and many patients find themselves relying on medications to ease their discomfort.
We Can Address Conditions Causing Calf Tendon Pain
Our approach doesn’t just ease pain—it focuses on addressing the underlying factors of your chronic condition, which may be linked to systemic inflammation. The NextPain Care management plan targets several musculoskeletal conditions associated with this issue, including common disorders like tendonitis, to help manage your pain and improve your overall well-being.
Sciatica Pain Treatment
Sciatica can cause intense pain and discomfort, making daily activities challenging. At NextPain Care, we provide a comprehensive approach to managing sciatic pain and associated symptoms, offering treatments designed to improve your comfort and mobility over...
Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that can cause severe pain, impacting daily life. At NextPain Care, we use evidence-based practices to provide relief from the painful symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, adhering to the highest standards set by medical...
Compartment Syndrome Treatment
Compartment syndrome is a painful condition where significant pressure builds up in the muscles and surrounding tissues, hindering adequate blood flow and causing intense discomfort. Recognizing the signs and seeking timely treatment is crucial to prevent...
Pain From Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) Treatment
Living with chronic pain caused by PAD can significantly impact your daily life. At NextPain Care, we offer a comprehensive treatment approach that specifically targets the chronic pain associated with PAD....
Expected Outcome Of Treatment
When dealing with calf tendon pain, the expected outcome of treatment can depend heavily on the severity of your condition. If your pain is derived from a mild injury or temporary problem – such as overworked muscles – your condition is likely to resolve quickly with at-home therapies, like rest and ice. However, more severe tendon problems, like damage, ruptures, and chronic inflammation may put you on a longer path to recovery.
Remember that with the right healthcare team, a carefully considered treatment plan, and a bit of patience, you can work towards achieving the results you’re hoping for. If you are an athlete, you’ll also be happy to know that over 80% of those with Achilles tendon ruptures return to their pre-injury level of sports. If you’ve suffered a milder injury or a tendon inflammation, the recovery rate can be even higher, and most athletes will be able to return to play within 6-52 weeks.
Recovering From Pain In The Calf Tendon
The journey toward recovery can appear very different from one person to another, usually depending on how severe the pain is.
- Light pain. Recovering from light calf pain is straightforward if you address the problem from the get-go and obtain an accurate diagnosis. Minor issues, like mild strain, can heal with rest, temporary activity modification, and gentle stretching. Recovery time is estimated to be around two or three weeks.
- Medium pain. Moderate calf tendon pain can indicate a more severe tear or overuse injury. In this case, the tendon can take up to 12 weeks to heal completely and ensure a smooth return to sports.
- Severe pain. Severe pain can be caused by a direct blow to the lower leg, fractures, and tendon ruptures. In this case, recovery time can be as long as six months to a year, and you may require surgery. Your doctor will be able to offer more accurate estimates based on what’s causing your calf tendon pain.
No matter at what level you are affected, chronic pain is never something to underestimate. Typically, it stems from high levels of uncontrolled systemic inflammation, which can lead to a whole host of other conditions, including arthritis and diabetes. What’s more, when you are affected by chronic pain, you may start to develop other conditions, like depression, which become added obstacles on your journey toward recovery.
For many, not addressing chronic pain causes it to become a lifelong problem. Studies have shown that a 55-year-old adult, who has a further life expectancy of 24.7 years, can expect to live nearly three years with mild pain and four and a half years with severe pain.
Preventing Future Calf Injury and Pain
Some forms of calf pain cannot be entirely prevented. For example, receiving a direct blow to the leg or inheriting certain musculoskeletal conditions are risk factors that cannot be modified. However, in most cases, you can reduce the risk of suffering from injuries to the tendon, as well as pain deriving from inflammation and overuse.
Below are some of the techniques you should consider implementing today.
Start Physical Training
Physical training can have multiple benefits on your overall musculoskeletal system, as well as on your general health. Some of these benefits include:
- It allows you to strengthen the muscles of the calves and improve their flexibility, thus reducing the risk of injuries.
- It can prevent obesity and overweight, which have been seen to be significant risk factors for overuse-related calf injuries.
- It allows you to improve your posture and athletic form, which can reduce the likelihood of non-contact injuries.
- It boosts the circulation of blood, oxygen, and nutrients, which are essential to speed up the recovery process from workouts and injuries alike.
Stay Hydrated
As we saw at the beginning of this guide, dehydration can have a detrimental effect on multiple systems of the body. It can hinder the production of energy, cause the muscles to work harder, and increase the risk of injuries, exertion, and fatigue. Additionally, dehydration and its associated electrolyte imbalance are directly related to nocturnal cramps, which can aggravate your pain.
A few guidelines to improve hydration include:
- Drink water regularly – aim for 2.7 liters (for females), 3.7 liters (for males) a day.
- Eat water-rich foods, like fruits and vegetables.
- Carry a reusable bottle and set drinking reminders to establish a healthy habit.
- Avoid excess caffeine and alcohol, which can cause dehydration.
Find Time To Move And Stretch The Muscles
Stretching plays a vital role in preventing tendon injuries. When you stretch, you’re increasing the flexibility of your calf muscles and the tendons that connect them to your bones. This can prevent injuries – such as the ones caused by accidentally overextending your muscles – and allow for a greater range of movement, balance, and coordination.
Additional benefits of a stretching routine include:
- Reducing the strain on the tendon caused by tight calf muscles
- Preparing your muscles for movement – achieved through dynamic stretches
- Lengthening the muscle fibers and reducing tension
- Easing the pressure on the nerves that supply the muscles, thus reducing the symptoms of irritated nerves
To avoid injuries when stretching, work with a specialist and make sure to listen to your body. Tools such as foam rollers can also help when used properly.
Wear Protective Gear When Necessary
If you suffer from conditions that aggravate the pressure on the calf, be sure to wear protective or supportive gear. For example, knee and ankle braces can help you avoid injuring your joints and excessive movements, thus reducing the risk of an undue pull on the tendons of the calf.
On the other hand, if your occupation or the sport you play puts you at risk of injuries to your limbs, wearing knee pads and adequate footwear can help.
Do Proper Warm-Up And Cool Down
Before taking part in any high-impact activities, take the time to properly warm up. A good way to start is to try dynamic stretches or low-intensity exercises like jumping jacks or a gentle jog. This gradual increase in activity prepares your calf tendons for sports performance, reducing the risk of injury.
Similarly, you should take the time to cool down after exercising. You can do so by easing off your intensity for at least five minutes. This helps your muscles and tendons transition smoothly back to a resting state, preventing potential pains and strains in your calf area, and it may improve recovery.
Build Good Habits
The most powerful way to reduce the risk of calf muscle pain – as well as the risk of several other musculoskeletal conditions – is to build lifestyle habits that are conducive to health. Those that prevent the weakening of the calf muscles and enhance your body’s ability to heal from injury include:
- Quitting smoking
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Addressing obesity as a risk factor for several chronic conditions, including calf tendon pain, diabetes, and osteoarthritis
- Enjoying an active lifestyle that involves daily exercise
- Eating a diet low in fats, meats, and processed foods, and rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fiber
- Staying hydrated throughout the day
- Making sleep, rest, and recovery from exercise a priority
These guidelines can also help you prevent more serious conditions commonly associated with calf tendon pain, such as DVT.
Always Take Extra Care of Your Legs
Whether you engage in high-intensity physical activity or live with a chronic condition like peripheral neuropathy that affects your calves, taking care of your leg health is essential. Preventive measures can support your overall musculoskeletal health, but if you’re already experiencing calf tendon pain, it’s important to find a treatment plan that works for you. Explore options that focus on improving lower leg function through well-rounded, fundamental care tailored to your specific needs.
Dealing with tendon pain in your calves?
Visit us on social networks:
Copyright © 2024 NextPain Care. All rights reserved.
