This is great advice. I had a second degree tear of my gastrocnemius almost a month ago in a tennis match. It felt like I’d been kicked or hit with a ball. 😩 I had to ice it and elevate it for three days and was on crutches. Compression socks really helped me move around, carefully, while protecting the calf for the first two weeks. Almost a month later, I can almost slow run and am doing strength and flexibility exercises. The human body is amazing so hang in there. And get well soon! 👍🏻😃
Amazing, this happened to me 3 days ago while playing pickle ball. The ironic thing here is that I described the feeling when it happened was the very exact way you described it. I thought someone hit me with a hard ball or wacked me with something. I even turned around looking for the culprit which really confused my friends and team mate. They were like.. who are looking for???? I typically heal fast. On day 3, I did the whole RICE thing, even some electronic stimulation which really helped. This video explained a lot, I was so confused why I was not black and blue. Let's see in a week. cheers,
@@Yogijeff the exact thing happened to me last night playing pickleball in cold weather, without stretching first. How is your recovery after a few weeks?
@@jc7k Thanks for asking. Very good. I watched a lot of videos and did the RICE thing. I stayed off of it and did not do any strenuous exercise for two weeks. I bought a wrap around brace. The third week I was OK and back playing. I definitely now take the time to warm up. Cheers pal and hope you heel soon too. Best
I hope that I did not just tear mines this morning!! Because I was doing an powerful sprint without even stretching. And I straight up made my calf pop with tremendous pain!
Im going to post my experience for anyone facing this kind of injury. I tore my left inner calf muscle at the beginning of december last year. I was doing some flips in the beach with a friend, and at the end of the session i suffered the injury. Heard/felt a loud pop, then a lot of pain, couldn't walk back home after that. I couldn't go to the doc after one week past the injury due to doc schedule constraints, same with the physio, couldn't start earlier, so i started it at the third week past the injury. So it went like this, one week off, the second week went to the doc, started taking something for the pain and most important (or that's what i thought) vitamin c and vitamin b complex (b1, b2, b6, b12). At the third week, i started physiotherapy and it was miraculous, i got better every day of that week, and by the end of it, i could walk normally (i was using crutches at the beginning of this week). Some antecedents: i train like 5 times a week, and i was walking a lot before the injury, so my calves were kinda chronically fatigued; By the second week, the tear length was 36 mm, a little bit too big, according to the doc; The injury occurred while my muscles were contracting, so before jumping, during the "thrusting". I was trying something new and it was a little aggressive to make the jump possible. The most painful of this aside from the evident physical pain, was that i couldn't move for two weeks, so i could barely train (just upper body), and i quit walking my dogs for this brief period of time that felt like months.
Very useful and easy to understand! Just had a popping sensation this evening when accelerated a little bit in my long run session and all indicates that I've torn my calf muscle! Desperate times begin again! :(
I felt a pop in my right calf 3 weeks ago while going down stairs. Not getting better, limping and my calf hurts and it is now moving down my leg. No bruises. When I walk now, my knee pops. I have an appt on Friday to see an ortho doc.
@chasing_komsyes and no. Doc thought it was a Bakers cyst that popped but I didn't have a bump behind my knee. Several months later I had a hip injection. Now my lower calf hurts. I need a new right side. 🙄
hey jinx, i just popped mine skateboarding with my son. Just sitting here with it elevated and an icepack on researching now. How is your recovery? Did you need crutches or anything?
@@OrbEmber Been a minute since my posting, but I'm guessing it wasn't that bad as it only needed time and the exercise described in the vid. No ice, no crutches. The human body is more resilient than we tend to think it is.
I’m 75 yr of age and active. Two weeks ago I lunge down to reach a tennis ball and hurt a pop. Ultrasound orthopedic examination diagnosed a partial tear in soleus calf muscle? However all the ankle, lower and upper Achilles are still swollen, as well as the calf muscle is stiff and enlarged when the leg is not raised. On touch the most painful spot is the upper Achilles and less the calf muscle itself. Whether this picture matches the diagnoses? This condition in my right leg is the first, while 25 yr ago I had almost a full rupture of my left leg Achilles tendon, playing tennis again, but then I was not able to bend or step on my leg like I can now.
It is difficult to comment because the devil is in the detail with these things. The soleus do lie deep to the very top part of the Achilles but it may be that the Achilles is slightly involved. It is however normal for swelling to move down the leg all the way to the ankle even due to gravity pulling it down. If you're in doubt get a second opinion from someone who can assess you and take all the details into account.
@@SportsInjuryPhysio i understand, you’re right. However, my concern is associated with the fact that already being in the 4th week after this diagnosed “partial calf (soleus) muscle tear” I can walk much freely without support, but ankle/ahillies and the top of the feet keep swelling when standing/sitting without elevated feet and especially in the end of the day even after I raise my feet?
We can't advise on specific exercises as it's not possible to know what exercise and how many reps and how much weight you should use without assessing you. You'll make safer and faster progress if you consult a physio who can prescribe the correct plan for you. This is also something that our team of physios can help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
Happened to me today. Felt pop at top of my calf behind knee doing machine calf raises at the gym. They were already warmed up. I guess it’s because I’m getting old (49) 😞. Currently limping 🙁
Hi, I’m really having a hard time trying to walk straight due to calf muscle pain I think. It was 3 days already. I went to a gym last time it was my first day and I didn’t do any warmups because I forgot and straight to a leg curl machine. That time I don’t know what to do because I’m just being there to accompany my mom for her workout/zumba. And my mom decided to let me trained so she called a fitness coach. Then the coach let me try other equipments. I think he also forgot to ask me if I did warmups. So the next day I didn’t go to the gym because of the bad weather. 3rd day i decided to go to the gym but there’s so much pain in my legs which I can’t really walk properly. Until now. I would like to ask for your advices guys. Hoping someone will notice this. Thank you💖
Excellent knowledge. I refree football/soccer to an high standard. My R calf popped 2 months ago during a game in the 80th minute in the gastrocnemius area, no bruising at all. I finished the game but the pain score was 8/10. It was agony to walk. I rested but not enough, i left it 3 weeks, it happened again. I iced everyday for 2 weeks, took it slow, did no strengthening and it went after 4 weeks in the 40th minute. I have now left it 3 weeks and it feels better than ever, im very wary of doing anything. gutted as i cant sprint or dont want to sprint which i need to do in the game.
Was playing football and it felt like I was kicked. Others near me said they heard the snap. :( are you back to normal now? Doing some research and seems to be about 4 weeks minimum @@carriecastanos
Im going through the same thing. Former ref, training to play. Pulled it 2 times within 3 weeks not taking enough time off. If it's still bothering you a year from now hope you take the proper time to properly heal. Trying to do the same. Sucks cus time is money but your health and performance are muy importanté
I tore my calf simply by trying to run for a few seconds. It was like something hit it and then it was extremely tender, weak and painful. I was limping very slowly for the next few days. And bruising didn't appear until a week later, both on the front and back of the leg. Gradually I've gained more mobility and strength but it's still a bit sore and weak. Wearing a compression sock thing helped a lot. I hope to get back into strengthening and exercising and aim for a long term habit of regular exercise. If you haven't sprinted for a long time, don't just go into it out of nowhere. The same for jogging, jumping and other things. Ease into them. That's my plan.
I just tore mine I think like :30 minutes ago, doing sled pushes at the gym…. Felt like some hit me with a weight. I messed up and quickly took an ibuprofen, hope I done make it worse. Icing it now and elevating it. I have electric pulse device for muscle can I use this?
No - don't use the pulse device yet - at this point it just needs to be allowed to rest and recover. You can usually move it gently but you don't want to try and work it hard or strengthen it yet. And don't worry about the ibuprofen - 1 tablet is not going to make too much difference.
Thanks for this video doc…its been 6 days my calf muscle popped…n m not able to put my heel on the ground…is there any video for strength training…do we need to go on medication for this…or time is the only healer?
Medication is not useful or needed. At this point it sounds as if you should just be doing very gentle movements with your foot and ankle until you are able to get your foot down to the floor. Once you are comfortable with your foot on the floor, then you can start doing strength training for it. At this point, you may find it more comfortable to walk around if you wear a shoe with a heel on it (like running shoes) rather than barefoot or in flat shoes. We don't have a video about strength training for calf strains yet.
I felt a definite pop down in the calves nice and deep, had to limp home. I don't have the luxury of resting I gotta work and I'm on my feet all day. It's been a month now and the I can still feel the strain.. I get pain and cramps and numbness throughout the day. I don't know why I'm telling you this but I just started typing. I've always been athletic but I swear the calves are just lacking and forever hurting
Sounds like you can do with consulting a physio who can help you understand how to better manage your loads during work and how to safely add rehab to your week because I don't think doing strength training on work days will work for you. If you want help with your rehab and an exercise plan, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: [www.sports-injury-physio.com](www.sports-injury-physio.com/)
It is OCTOBER 23 2024, and just earlier today, I was doing a power sprint (Without doing ANY stretching whatsoever), and for the first time in my life, I pulled and popped my left calf muscle!!😮😢 it sucks and freaking HURTS MAN.
TENS might help the pain, but it doesn't really help healing - the advice in this video also applies to your situation: th-cam.com/video/zfrDJ07nCWE/w-d-xo.html
I has first what it feels like tear 4 years ago (then few months later second acl tear) then long break, got back to good slow steady training, 2 years later what it feels like another tear and now year later again.. Always on the same exact spot in calf.. Also worth to say I have naturally pretty big and stong calfs too and I've been doing plently of calf workouts for my knee recovery.. How is it possible that it happens again, year later, same exact spot? ...
Two things come to mind: 1. It can often happen if you have a break from training and then go back too quickly. 2. But it might also be something to do with neural tension - I discuss it in this video th-cam.com/video/JT2qEqfg3as/w-d-xo.htmlsi=CIhHKVh3HH341Pzx&t=495 I share tips on treating neural tension here: th-cam.com/video/cCy6IROWVHY/w-d-xo.html
I popped my calf muscle playing padel tonight it sounded like someone hit my calf with a tennis ball a loud pop can't walk intense pounding pain.im on crouches can't move my toes upwards.went hospital 6 hour wait so went home probably should of just stayed.strong co-codamol 30% is not even touching the pain
Yes, gravity pulls the swelling and dead blood down. Gentle rehab exercises will help relieve that. If you want help with your rehab and an exercise plan, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com
After a knee injury.I was surprised several days later.both sides of ankles bruised badly...and pain at the back of heel/calf... I can walk..but not for a long time before it really starts hurting.
I've injured my inner calf muscle during martial arts training ...I heard the muscle 'pop' ...then, agony followed 😢... cannot walk, have been, hopping around on 1 leg , the good leg 😅😅.... Or i will sometimes try walking on the ball of my foot of the injured leg...Thanks for the video. I will try the PRICE rehabilitation. 👍
Hi I’ve had this pain I’m both of my calf muscles for over 2 years. I didn’t hear or feel a pop in my legs or I don’t remember anyway. It feels like my calf is getting detached every time I walk or when stretching my toes to the floor. I cannot do any exercise. Can you help me?
This does not sounds like it is a calf strain - it sounds more as if it may actually be coming from your lower back. Perhaps have it assessed by your doctor first.
Thanks for the great video! I thought I strained or "pulled" my calf muscle - but now I'm wondering if it popped. It was while walking (no running/jumping, etc.). The fact that it was while taking a walk (nothing strenuous) makes me wonder if the fact that I'm on a statin made it more likely. Just so odd! Do you ever see calf issues with those on statins? Prior to that, I had a knee issue on this same statin.
Some people do seem to be sensitive to statins and they can definitely affect muscles and muscle repair. Perhaps speak to your doc and see if there is a different type of statin you can try - sometime it can help to switch.
Man, I’m so mad, my gastrocnemius popped today after I had trained my vertical enough to start dunking. I’m not sure if it’s my pain tolerance, but it feels like a constant cramp, more of an annoying pain than a bad pain. But who knows I’ll find out when I wake up tomorrow 😢
this is exactly what’s happening to me right now i popped mine driving with the basketball and as soon as i took my first step the pop happened and it freaked me out. it’s just like you said it feels like a constant cramp
@@TsukiRaiki I took everything slow, I stopped running and got my cardio through stationary bikes, and slow incline walking; it’s been 4 months and I’m able to play again. Definitely lost power and I’m not jumping as high as I was. But I’ll be honest I can’t play as much as I used to before this. Just focus on strength training and therapeutic exercises. The recovery starts with you man.
I stepped down wrong a couple weeks ago and felt an awful popping sensation in my right calf. Very painful and not able to walk or put weight on my right leg/foot with my foot flat. I had to hobble around on my tip toes Went to Urgent Care and said I pulled a muscle and gave me crutches and told me to try to Walk on it. Well a week later still could not walk on it and very bed swelling and bruising on my leg and foot. Went to another Urgent Care for a second opinion and he said he thought it was an Achilles Ruptured and referred me to Orthopedic Surgeon. Went to see him almost a week later and he diagnosed me with a calf muscle tear and I am now in a air cast walking boot for 4 weeks. The bruising is starting to lighten up but still some swelling and i still can not walk on with my foot flat on the ground. i just kinda wish the Orthopedic Surgeon would have done a MRI or Ultrasound or something. What do you think i should do??
You are the greatest!. Your explanation and dedication on this is so good! I wish I had you and your videos a week ago when I had my calf / Aquiles tendon issue skiing 🥲😢 Thank you for your kind support and help. You are very good!
I feel a pop sensation, but it doesn’t hurt at all. It also hasn’t really affected my running and I mainly feel it when walking barefoot. It seems that there’s also slightly less flexibility in the popping calf than the other one. Is this just a minor tear?
You'll have to have it assessed to know what it is. But if it is something that continuously pops as you walk, then it is likely not a tear. If it was a once-off pop then it might be a small tear but could also be something that is tight and the treatment would be very different, so pls have it assessed.
Grrrr! I just got over a two week chest infection. First day back to my Muay Thai training and my left Achilles was tender so while skipping I jumped mostly in my right. Halfway through and I had a painful pop in the right calf. The medial head of the gastrocnemius is now quite sore and tender to the touch. I hope it’s not torn.. I think I might be getting too old for this sport lol.
I've literally just done the same thing at Muay Thai! Right calf felt tight during warm up, painful during skipping first kick I threw popped my calf, now at day 3 and it's incredibly painful and tight, do I just continue to rest and start walking when it's feeling less tight?? 😢
I tore my calf and LCL while playing basketball. Running full speed, get tripped up and land all 240lbs of me on a fully extended knee. Its week two and Im jogging with no pain, still hurts to run, and my calf tear bruise just showed up as a big yellow blotch, its a deep tear. If Im up lightly jogging already my LCL tear can't be that bad. Hang in there all, one day at a time!
Felt a huge pop then a searing burning pain in my gastrocnemius & soleus muscles (doing Muay Thai Trainjng), its day 3, i can walk (only just and woth my foot turned out) but its incredibly tight and painful- will it heal by itself or did i do something bad!?
Sounds like you've got a significant calf tear. I would get it checked by a physio to make sure it is not something more serious and also get some rehab advice. It can usually make it easier to walk if you wear shoes with heels (like running shoes) instead of flat shoes because it takes some of the strain off the calf.
I heard a pop while running but i dont feel any pain at all😅 is it a tear or just a strain ? Its very stiff in the leg so i cant walk that well whats should i do ?😢
Get it checked soon as possible - you need to make sure that you've not torn something important like the Achilles tendon because that can sometimes be pain free even when torn fully.
After 3 weeks of getting my gastrocnemius muscle micro tear and strain while playing volleyball, I still feel burning while driving or walking for more than few metres. Is it normal while healing ?
It could be but it is really difficult to say without knowing all the details and assessing you so perhaps ask your physio. If you wanted help with your rehab and an exercise plan, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
4 days ago, during badminton I got hurt on my calf muscle and now I am getting some bruises on my muscles! Still pain is there! May I get your suggestions? Regards
That does sound like you've torn it. This video about recurring calf strains will help you understand how to get it better and avoid reinjury th-cam.com/video/JT2qEqfg3as/w-d-xo.html
I tore mine 9 years ago and have never healed fully. The aching strain and pain comes back daily. Things I can't prevent the pain from coming back in my day to day life such as working my foot pedals in my car. The constant braking and acceleration is constantly straining my calves. I can't run at all. Even going grocery shopping is torturous and will hinder me for days.
It is about mechanism of injury (how it started) and how the symptoms react afterwards. The 3 conditions have similarities but also key differences. If you are struggling to figure it out, get it assessed by a physio or doctor, they will be able to put the info together and figure it out.
Should I be concerned that my calf pops fairly regularly just by stretching? 😅 it usually happens after long shifts in my job which is very physically demanding, I recorded my steps once in a 6 hour shift which is one of the shortest shifts I do, they can span from 6 hours to 14, and I recorded 28,000 steps in those 6 hours. I try to keep hydrated but I could be better at drinking water and I have a relatively healthy diet.
I would start by optimizing your shoes. Your shifts are equivalent to endurance training and you need to wear shoes that support your feet and calves e.g. have cushion and arch support. Typically running shoes work well for this but it is not always possible to wear that for work.
Hi Joel, It's really not possible to say without an assessment, as it depends on the severity of the strain. Generally, it takes 6 to 12 weeks to get back to full sport. The best way to get a more definitive answer is to have your injury assessed by a phyio. Here's some more general information about calf injuries: www.sports-injury-physio.com/calf-strains
Yip - that sounds like you've torn something in your calf. It can be useful to get it checked by a physiotherapist to ensure it is your muscles (not so serious) and not your Achilles tendon (more serious). If it is the Achilles tendon, it requires different and immediate treatment. This video explains how to diagnose Achilles tears: th-cam.com/video/40ytqVSXLJg/w-d-xo.html 👉 If you want help figuring this out, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com
Last night I was at a barn dance all of sudden it felt like I was kicked in the calf muscle and I felt like a pop or crack or something , I then couldn’t put weight on it or walk , thought it was cramp but stretching and massage didn’t help went to the hospital only for them to want me to go to another hospital across the water from me , so not sure what Iv done but I’ll go to my local walk in centre .
@@SportsInjuryPhysio yes went to my walk-in hospital they said muscle damage and got crutches told me to look on TH-cam for muscle damage Exercises and rest it , my whole bottom of my leg keeps swelling soon as I get out of bed to walk been putting ice packs on it and muscle rub . And thank you 😊
If it only happened last night, then it will it will still be quite sore. A popped calf muscle = a tear and the size of the tear will determine healing time. Usually takes about 4 weeks for minor ones but yours sound more like a medium sized, so will likely take 8 to 12 weeks. But you must start gentle rehab in a few days to start restoring strength. This video provide some info: th-cam.com/video/JT2qEqfg3as/w-d-xo.html
Doing calf strengthening exercises, mobility exercises, and following a sensible training plan for whatever sport you are doing is usually the best way to prevent calf strains.
My calf muscle popping over and over again when I’m walking or put to much pressure on it after not being able to straighten it for a few hours after waking up, wish it would only do it once it’s getting annoying haha , the pain alleviates when I point my toes up so must be just a tear
Was running at softball and felt a pop in the back of my calf. Swelled immediately, but bruised a week later. The pop was strictly my calf. The treatment where i live isnt the best, any ideas?
That sounds like a typical calf strain so it should react well to a progressive rehab plan to help the muscles recover and strengthen back up. If you wanted help with your rehab and an exercise plan, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
It is always best to get it checked because if it is the Achilles its chances of healing without surgery is much better if you get it seen to immediately. But I discuss how you can know if it is your Achilles in this video: th-cam.com/video/40ytqVSXLJg/w-d-xo.html
Strength training - tennis involves explosive quick contractions from the calf muscles as you move so you have to make sure that you strengthen it properly, including plyometrics in final rehab before you go back to full competition and full-out training. My colleague Steph is very experienced in high level tennis and rehab of tennis players and will be able to help you with this via video call if you wanted a specific rehab plan. You can read more about Steph here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/sports-physiotherapist-steph-davies and you can find more information about the video consultations here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
My calf muscle popped while playing basketball 2 days ago and untill now i cannot walk.. it is painful and i cannot stretch my left leg.. i went to the doctor and he just prescribe me some pain killers..and adviced me to take a 5 days rest..
@Moments with Vanessa yah..it is better now, i did see a doctor and he just prescribed me some pain killers..and its been 2 weeks ago since it happened..but until now there are moments that i feel some pinching pain on my achilles part..
@@rnltv8749 hello, how are feeling now man? I had the same injury 2 weeks ago and its still impossible to walk. Are you able to walk now? Hope you feeling better
@Puujee O shit happened to me today. I played through it cause I thought it was a cramp or something. Now it hurt when I try to walking up the steps.feels better if I us my heel for whatever reason
When I was taking out my shoe, my calf popped as I pressed the ground, and it insansely hurt me for 2-3 minutes. Even though the sore is mostly gone, it still hurts when I walk especially in stairs. It feels like Im pushing my muscle so hard, and if I push it more it will tear off. This happened to me after playing in a soccer game ( havent been playing for a month ). What exactly is happened to me, and what should I do? I can't go to hospital for 4-5 days.
Hi Pushin, We cannot provide individual treatment advice without doing an in-depth assessment of your injury and your personal circumstances, as the advice might not be appropriate for you. You're welcome to book a video consultation with one of our physios if you would like an assessment and a personalised treatment plan: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
@@LowProfile26 hey bro yea im good now. After the incident I rested for 2 days, and kept playing football (every week) after 5 days, and slightly hurt my ankle out of nowhere in each game for 3-4 weeks (it got kinda fragile). Then I stopped playing or exercising for about a month due to exams. Now I'm totally fine. My advice is even if you feel totally fine don't do any intense physical activity for 3-4 weeks. Get well soon & good luck.
@@2lit2behumble thanks for that and glad you’re all good! Mine felt like I was kicked really hard in the ankle, turned around and no one was near me haha. Others say they heard the snap :( fingers crossed for a swift recovery! 🙏🏽
Hi, I went to the gym on Sunday and did calf raises. I forgot to stretch before and after, and it was also my first time back at the gym after a while. My calf now hurts still today to straighten my leg fully when I'm standing. It hurts less if I stand on my tip toe with my knee bent. It still hurts less to stand straight up on my tip toe than it does to attempt to stand straight like normal on my whole foot. Doo you have any idea what this could be?
It really depends on exactly where the pain is - it can be the gastroc muscle that is injured or the lower hamstring tendons (if the pain is not too low in calf but quite high up and more to the outer or inner sides). If you wanted help figuring this out and what to do, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
Not really - you have to make sure that you rebuild the strength before going to sport. Calf supports provide pressure into the muscles, but the muscle is loaded lengthwise. So, even though they can feel nice to wear they don't reduce strain.
@@SportsInjuryPhysio I am trying to look for some calf muscle strengthening exercises in your videos but cant find any, are there some you could recommend? My sport is badminton and it is quite a fast sport and heavy on the knees and now to my calves
If you have a calf injury, it would be better to see a physio to get excercises that are correct for your injury and your sport. This is something that one of our physios can help you with. More info here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/ If you're not injured, this article has several leg strength exercises - jump to "Single Leg Heel Raise Over Step" for the calves. There's also a link to a short demo video. www.sports-injury-physio.com/post/strength-training-programme-for-busy-runners
Came across this looking for the best option to move forward. I have had a full rupture of my achilles in Nov 2014 and that calf is struggles to stay balanced. I popped it just walking in really cold weather before Christmas and was trying to massage it the last week as it was still very tight but wasn't going to be able to get an appointment until after the holidays. Then yesterday, I popped it again out with the horses in the mud and it was ouch. It's about mid way, even slightly higher on the belly of the calf. It feels very deep so possibly the soleus? Doesn't feel too bad palating it. My soleus has been so tight since the surgery and really hard to keep on top of. My question is, when is it OK to go for a massage? Trying to rest it but I do have to go out to the horse daily now as I have just brought her in.
This was a great help! I’m not a runner or a jogger, I have fibromyalgia and I’m just about able to walk at times. Two weeks ago I got up at 6am to let the dog out for a wee, walking down the stairs my calf muscles were very tight on both legs to the point they were painful. I sorted the dog and went to the bathroom myself where I rubbed my calves and hoped I wouldn’t get a cramp (a regular occurrence ☹️) walking back into the kitchen as I stepped on my right leg I heard and felt a massive pop and pain shot through my body. I couldn’t put any weight on it or even put my heel to the floor, I had to crawl back upstairs! Two weeks later an MRI shows a tear deep in the muscle. I need crutches to walk, I can put my heel down but it’s very tender. My first physio session is tomorrow and I can’t wait. Being on crutches it’s not just my calf needing physio every muscle in my body needs a massage 😩😩
It is usually a combination of limiting any activities that hurt + doing strength training which consists of heel raises - but what type of heel raise and with how much weight and how to progress will depend on your specific case. You have to start with ones that does not cause pain and slowly build the intensity over several weeks until you reach the strength needed for your sport. If you wanted help with your rehab and an exercise plan, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
I heard my calf muscle pop 6 weeks ago. I couldn’t walk fro about 2 weeks. Today I can walk on it but I cant walk a long time because my heel ends up hurting. I feel a lot or tightness in both calf’s now. MRI said low grade strain but I have an I’ll defined plantaris tendon, suspicious for a tear. Am I suppose to strengthen my calf?
Thanx. My story is a chiropractor aligned my hips, which have been off for many many years. So when I jog now my left calf hurts but before it was my right calf. My right calf is stronger, of course. So I felt strain and jogging yesterday and then today I popped L calf playing tennis.
I'm a 5'9, male, 215 lbs, popped my calf muscle 8 weeks ago. I went to the ER and the doctor made me stand on my toes, which I could barely do and the doctor said it was a gastrocnemius grade 2 tear. I've started wearing a heel but it feels like I'm stuck in the healing progress. I can't use crutches due to a spine injury that affects my shoulders. I'm at a loss for what to do other than rest.
Starting with very gentle strength training can often make a huge difference but it has to be at the correct intensity for what your calf can currently do - sometimes even just with no real weight. If you wanted help with your rehab and an exercise plan, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/services
I was playing softball and hit the ball began to run and felt a deep pop in my left calf. Now I can barely put any pressure on that leg. Should I see a doctor?
It depends - who can you see the most quickly? Basically you want to make sure that it wasn't your Achilles tendon that was involved (and that goes up about half way to middle of calf). If you can see a good physio more quickly than a doctor, then see the physio because they can assess it and advise on whether you need a scan etc. and if it is just a muscle tear, they can advise on rehab going forward as well. But if you don't have quick access to a physio, see your doctor as they will be able to assess it and rule out Achilles tear or order scan if needed and then refer you to a physio.
Happened to me today playing pickle ball. Felt a quick snap and I immediately hobbled off the court walking on my heel. Icing and elevating it with advil every 5 hours.
@@joshuachan9531 went for a MRI and there was a grade 2-3 tear. Went to physical therapy and a chiropractor for stimulation on my calf. I also did Cupping which gets the blood flow. I was back playing in less then a month. I did a Lotta ice on and off every day for three weeks
That does sound like a tear so look after it. If you wanted help with your rehab and an exercise plan, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
Hi Mugilan, We cannot provide individual treatment advice without doing an in-depth assessment of your injury and your personal circumstances, as the advice might not be appropriate for you. You're welcome to book a video consultation with one of our physios if you would like an assessment and a personalised treatment plan: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
Thanks for your advice. My lower calf popped yesterday. I felt like I was shot on the back of my leg. I can’t put any weight on it so now in bed resting with my leg up, getting to the toilet is agony. Hopefully in the next 24 hrs I can walk on it.
@@nudgexs Sorry to hear that and hope you get better soon. It’s been 3 weeks now to the day and I’ve only started walking with a limp or pain in the last few days. The first 4 days were the worst, I ordered the sport ice packs (2x) and just kept them in the freezer and kept my leg raised. Entire bottom leg went black and blue after about a week, it’s now just about clear. Take care and rest as much as possible.
@@bmclaughlin01 oh wow that sounds really tough, 3 weeks is long time to be debilitated, I've only had 40ish hours and already completely fed up of it. Did you see a Doctor / Physio? I have been advised to call my Doctor tomorrow but am not holding out much hope for an appoinment any time soon
@@nudgexs I called the doctor after about 7 days because people kept telling me I needed to see someone. At the point I was hobbling about with crutches. His first question was had the swelling gone down, no? I asked about physio and was informed I needed wait until the swelling and bruising had gone down. In summary, I don’t think you need to see a doctor unless it’s really bad and requires surgery. In that case it’s better to go to the hospital and get an X-ray.
This is great advice. I had a second degree tear of my gastrocnemius almost a month ago in a tennis match. It felt like I’d been kicked or hit with a ball. 😩 I had to ice it and elevate it for three days and was on crutches. Compression socks really helped me move around, carefully, while protecting the calf for the first two weeks. Almost a month later, I can almost slow run and am doing strength and flexibility exercises. The human body is amazing so hang in there. And get well soon! 👍🏻😃
Thanks for sharing!
Amazing, this happened to me 3 days ago while playing pickle ball. The ironic thing here is that I described the feeling when it happened was the very exact way you described it. I thought someone hit me with a hard ball or wacked me with something. I even turned around looking for the culprit which really confused my friends and team mate. They were like.. who are looking for???? I typically heal fast. On day 3, I did the whole RICE thing, even some electronic stimulation which really helped. This video explained a lot, I was so confused why I was not black and blue. Let's see in a week. cheers,
Same boat. I tore my muscle during a tennis game as well. It felt as if someone hit me with a ball but it was my muscle popping. Good luck healing.
@@Yogijeff the exact thing happened to me last night playing pickleball in cold weather, without stretching first. How is your recovery after a few weeks?
@@jc7k Thanks for asking. Very good. I watched a lot of videos and did the RICE thing. I stayed off of it and did not do any strenuous exercise for two weeks. I bought a wrap around brace. The third week I was OK and back playing. I definitely now take the time to warm up. Cheers pal and hope you heel soon too. Best
Sadly, this video made me realize I do in fact have a torn calf.
Thank you, though, great video
Sorry to hear that
I hope that I did not just tear mines this morning!! Because I was doing an powerful sprint without even stretching. And I straight up made my calf pop with tremendous pain!
Im going to post my experience for anyone facing this kind of injury.
I tore my left inner calf muscle at the beginning of december last year. I was doing some flips in the beach with a friend, and at the end of the session i suffered the injury. Heard/felt a loud pop, then a lot of pain, couldn't walk back home after that. I couldn't go to the doc after one week past the injury due to doc schedule constraints, same with the physio, couldn't start earlier, so i started it at the third week past the injury. So it went like this, one week off, the second week went to the doc, started taking something for the pain and most important (or that's what i thought) vitamin c and vitamin b complex (b1, b2, b6, b12). At the third week, i started physiotherapy and it was miraculous, i got better every day of that week, and by the end of it, i could walk normally (i was using crutches at the beginning of this week). Some antecedents: i train like 5 times a week, and i was walking a lot before the injury, so my calves were kinda chronically fatigued; By the second week, the tear length was 36 mm, a little bit too big, according to the doc; The injury occurred while my muscles were contracting, so before jumping, during the "thrusting". I was trying something new and it was a little aggressive to make the jump possible.
The most painful of this aside from the evident physical pain, was that i couldn't move for two weeks, so i could barely train (just upper body), and i quit walking my dogs for this brief period of time that felt like months.
Very useful and easy to understand! Just had a popping sensation this evening when accelerated a little bit in my long run session and all indicates that I've torn my calf muscle! Desperate times begin again! :(
I'm glad you found the video useful, and good luck with your recovery!
Thanks very informative I heard the pop and thought I was gonna lose my leg until I saw this..😊
You're welcome!
How long until you could walk
I felt a pop in my right calf 3 weeks ago while going down stairs. Not getting better, limping and my calf hurts and it is now moving down my leg. No bruises. When I walk now, my knee pops. I have an appt on Friday to see an ortho doc.
@chasing_komsyes and no. Doc thought it was a Bakers cyst that popped but I didn't have a bump behind my knee. Several months later I had a hip injection. Now my lower calf hurts. I need a new right side. 🙄
@susanhildreth1531 7 years, still paining like hell😢,.
Very informative.
Good video thank you , I just felt a pop in my upper calf skiing and I am elevating and icing now
Good luck with your recovery!
Thank you, doc, for the information, this should immensely help my recovery since I just popped my gastrocnemius earlier this afternoon.
Best of luck!
hey jinx, i just popped mine skateboarding with my son. Just sitting here with it elevated and an icepack on researching now. How is your recovery? Did you need crutches or anything?
@@OrbEmber same thing happen to me 2 days ago, just skating around and I can't walk.
@@SportsInjuryPhysio is there an exercises I can do since I think from your video I’ve injured my soleus
@@OrbEmber Been a minute since my posting, but I'm guessing it wasn't that bad as it only needed time and the exercise described in the vid. No ice, no crutches. The human body is more resilient than we tend to think it is.
I’m 75 yr of age and active. Two weeks ago I lunge down to reach a tennis ball and hurt a pop. Ultrasound orthopedic examination diagnosed a partial tear in soleus calf muscle? However all the ankle, lower and upper Achilles are still swollen, as well as the calf muscle is stiff and enlarged when the leg is not raised. On touch the most painful spot is the upper Achilles and less the calf muscle itself. Whether this picture matches the diagnoses? This condition in my right leg is the first, while 25 yr ago I had almost a full rupture of my left leg Achilles tendon, playing tennis again, but then I was not able to bend or step on my leg like I can now.
It is difficult to comment because the devil is in the detail with these things. The soleus do lie deep to the very top part of the Achilles but it may be that the Achilles is slightly involved. It is however normal for swelling to move down the leg all the way to the ankle even due to gravity pulling it down. If you're in doubt get a second opinion from someone who can assess you and take all the details into account.
@@SportsInjuryPhysio i understand, you’re right. However, my concern is associated with the fact that already being in the 4th week after this diagnosed “partial calf (soleus) muscle tear” I can walk much freely without support, but ankle/ahillies and the top of the feet keep swelling when standing/sitting without elevated feet and especially in the end of the day even after I raise my feet?
Yes, very useful. Thanks doc. Could you please post a link to specific exercises for a mild calf tear? It is possible to walk but not to run or kick..
We can't advise on specific exercises as it's not possible to know what exercise and how many reps and how much weight you should use without assessing you. You'll make safer and faster progress if you consult a physio who can prescribe the correct plan for you.
This is also something that our team of physios can help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
@@SportsInjuryPhysio thank you for the reply
Happened to me today. Felt pop at top of my calf behind knee doing machine calf raises at the gym. They were already warmed up. I guess it’s because I’m getting old (49) 😞. Currently limping 🙁
☹
Ditto! Currently suffering😢
Same I’m 49 and mine popped. Never had this before. It really sucks
Hey my people: Just turned 49, just tore my calf tonight. Basketball. It was a scary feeling. Like being kicked.
@@benjamin_bloomhow is it now ? omg me too while playing basket ball it happened today 😔
Very informative! Thank you so much, you answered all of my questions! Great video
You are so welcome!
Had Soleus strain for 3 years in left calf. Just can’t get over it, tried strengthening for months, no improvement.
Excellent advice. Your videos are helpful to me to understand what is happening post strain and what I need to do and how long this will take.
Glad to help
Hi, I’m really having a hard time trying to walk straight due to calf muscle pain I think. It was 3 days already. I went to a gym last time it was my first day and I didn’t do any warmups because I forgot and straight to a leg curl machine. That time I don’t know what to do because I’m just being there to accompany my mom for her workout/zumba. And my mom decided to let me trained so she called a fitness coach. Then the coach let me try other equipments. I think he also forgot to ask me if I did warmups. So the next day I didn’t go to the gym because of the bad weather. 3rd day i decided to go to the gym but there’s so much pain in my legs which I can’t really walk properly. Until now. I would like to ask for your advices guys. Hoping someone will notice this. Thank you💖
Very normal it’s lactic acid
Very well described and has helped me recover. Thank you 🙏
Glad it helped
Excellent knowledge. I refree football/soccer to an high standard. My R calf popped 2 months ago during a game in the 80th minute in the gastrocnemius area, no bruising at all. I finished the game but the pain score was 8/10. It was agony to walk. I rested but not enough, i left it 3 weeks, it happened again. I iced everyday for 2 weeks, took it slow, did no strengthening and it went after 4 weeks in the 40th minute. I have now left it 3 weeks and it feels better than ever, im very wary of doing anything. gutted as i cant sprint or dont want to sprint which i need to do in the game.
I heard a rather loud pop doing my sprint, the pain is real when pressure is put on it.
Was playing football and it felt like I was kicked. Others near me said they heard the snap. :( are you back to normal now? Doing some research and seems to be about 4 weeks minimum @@carriecastanos
Im going through the same thing. Former ref, training to play. Pulled it 2 times within 3 weeks not taking enough time off. If it's still bothering you a year from now hope you take the proper time to properly heal. Trying to do the same. Sucks cus time is money but your health and performance are muy importanté
Thank you for this. Love your channel. Just did mine half an hour ago on 4th stride effort after a base run. Blast
Thanks for watching, and good luck with your recovery!
Great work thanks for the insights and tips
My pleasure!
I tore my calf simply by trying to run for a few seconds. It was like something hit it and then it was extremely tender, weak and painful. I was limping very slowly for the next few days. And bruising didn't appear until a week later, both on the front and back of the leg. Gradually I've gained more mobility and strength but it's still a bit sore and weak. Wearing a compression sock thing helped a lot.
I hope to get back into strengthening and exercising and aim for a long term habit of regular exercise. If you haven't sprinted for a long time, don't just go into it out of nowhere. The same for jogging, jumping and other things. Ease into them. That's my plan.
Thanks for sharing, and good luck with your recovery!
I just tore mine I think like :30 minutes ago, doing sled pushes at the gym…. Felt like some hit me with a weight. I messed up and quickly took an ibuprofen, hope I done make it worse. Icing it now and elevating it. I have electric pulse device for muscle can I use this?
No - don't use the pulse device yet - at this point it just needs to be allowed to rest and recover. You can usually move it gently but you don't want to try and work it hard or strengthen it yet. And don't worry about the ibuprofen - 1 tablet is not going to make too much difference.
Thanks for the info. It just happened to me a day ago.
Good video,thanks 👍🏼
Thanks for this video doc…its been 6 days my calf muscle popped…n m not able to put my heel on the ground…is there any video for strength training…do we need to go on medication for this…or time is the only healer?
Medication is not useful or needed. At this point it sounds as if you should just be doing very gentle movements with your foot and ankle until you are able to get your foot down to the floor. Once you are comfortable with your foot on the floor, then you can start doing strength training for it. At this point, you may find it more comfortable to walk around if you wear a shoe with a heel on it (like running shoes) rather than barefoot or in flat shoes. We don't have a video about strength training for calf strains yet.
@@SportsInjuryPhysio Thank You so much doc…I appreciate may god bless you till eternity..much love ❤️
Very nicely explained, thank you.
So nice of you
I felt a definite pop down in the calves nice and deep, had to limp home. I don't have the luxury of resting I gotta work and I'm on my feet all day.
It's been a month now and the I can still feel the strain.. I get pain and cramps and numbness throughout the day. I don't know why I'm telling you this but I just started typing.
I've always been athletic but I swear the calves are just lacking and forever hurting
Sounds like you can do with consulting a physio who can help you understand how to better manage your loads during work and how to safely add rehab to your week because I don't think doing strength training on work days will work for you.
If you want help with your rehab and an exercise plan, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: [www.sports-injury-physio.com](www.sports-injury-physio.com/)
Great video!
Thanks!
Very useful, you are very informative. thank you
You are welcome!
It is OCTOBER 23 2024, and just earlier today, I was doing a power sprint (Without doing ANY stretching whatsoever), and for the first time in my life, I pulled and popped my left calf muscle!!😮😢 it sucks and freaking HURTS MAN.
Great video. I have a torn plantaris muscle. Would an at-home TENS unit help with healing?
TENS might help the pain, but it doesn't really help healing - the advice in this video also applies to your situation: th-cam.com/video/zfrDJ07nCWE/w-d-xo.html
Thank you
You're welcome
I has first what it feels like tear 4 years ago (then few months later second acl tear) then long break, got back to good slow steady training, 2 years later what it feels like another tear and now year later again.. Always on the same exact spot in calf.. Also worth to say I have naturally pretty big and stong calfs too and I've been doing plently of calf workouts for my knee recovery.. How is it possible that it happens again, year later, same exact spot? ...
Two things come to mind:
1. It can often happen if you have a break from training and then go back too quickly.
2. But it might also be something to do with neural tension - I discuss it in this video th-cam.com/video/JT2qEqfg3as/w-d-xo.htmlsi=CIhHKVh3HH341Pzx&t=495
I share tips on treating neural tension here: th-cam.com/video/cCy6IROWVHY/w-d-xo.html
I popped my calf muscle playing padel tonight it sounded like someone hit my calf with a tennis ball a loud pop can't walk intense pounding pain.im on crouches can't move my toes upwards.went hospital 6 hour wait so went home probably should of just stayed.strong co-codamol 30% is not even touching the pain
Thank you, your information really helps. Do you think light jump rope will help also?
You have to first build good muscle strength before you do any jump rope. So only at the very end stage of your rehab.
@@SportsInjuryPhysio thank you for your answer!
Thanx! Is it normal that about a week after the cald muscle tear, there is edema in the foot and underskin bruise stains surrounding the foot?
Yes, gravity pulls the swelling and dead blood down. Gentle rehab exercises will help relieve that. If you want help with your rehab and an exercise plan, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com
After a knee injury.I was surprised several days later.both sides of ankles bruised badly...and pain at the back of heel/calf... I can walk..but not for a long time before it really starts hurting.
Good video, but could’ve expanded on PRICE for the first two days and then proceed to the treatment phase. A bit too quick and lacked detail.
I agree
I've injured my inner calf muscle during martial arts training ...I heard the muscle 'pop' ...then, agony followed
😢... cannot walk, have been, hopping around on 1 leg , the good leg 😅😅....
Or i will sometimes try walking on the ball of my foot of the injured leg...Thanks for the video. I will try the PRICE rehabilitation. 👍
Thanks for sharing, and good luck with your recovery!
Hi I’ve had this pain I’m both of my calf muscles for over 2 years. I didn’t hear or feel a pop in my legs or I don’t remember anyway. It feels like my calf is getting detached every time I walk or when stretching my toes to the floor. I cannot do any exercise. Can you help me?
This does not sounds like it is a calf strain - it sounds more as if it may actually be coming from your lower back. Perhaps have it assessed by your doctor first.
Thanks for the great video! I thought I strained or "pulled" my calf muscle - but now I'm wondering if it popped. It was while walking (no running/jumping, etc.). The fact that it was while taking a walk (nothing strenuous) makes me wonder if the fact that I'm on a statin made it more likely. Just so odd! Do you ever see calf issues with those on statins? Prior to that, I had a knee issue on this same statin.
Some people do seem to be sensitive to statins and they can definitely affect muscles and muscle repair. Perhaps speak to your doc and see if there is a different type of statin you can try - sometime it can help to switch.
@@SportsInjuryPhysio I incredibly appreciate that you took the time to reply. It was helpful reading what you wrote. Thank you!
Most helpful. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
Great, thank you !! 🙏
Welcome!
Man, I’m so mad, my gastrocnemius popped today after I had trained my vertical enough to start dunking. I’m not sure if it’s my pain tolerance, but it feels like a constant cramp, more of an annoying pain than a bad pain. But who knows I’ll find out when I wake up tomorrow 😢
this is exactly what’s happening to me right now i popped mine driving with the basketball and as soon as i took my first step the pop happened and it freaked me out. it’s just like you said it feels like a constant cramp
@@TsukiRaiki I took everything slow, I stopped running and got my cardio through stationary bikes, and slow incline walking; it’s been 4 months and I’m able to play again. Definitely lost power and I’m not jumping as high as I was. But I’ll be honest I can’t play as much as I used to before this. Just focus on strength training and therapeutic exercises. The recovery starts with you man.
I stepped down wrong a couple weeks ago and felt an awful popping sensation in my right calf. Very painful and not able to walk or put weight on my right leg/foot with my foot flat. I had to hobble around on my tip toes
Went to Urgent Care and said I pulled a muscle and gave me crutches and told me to try to Walk on it. Well a week later still could not walk on it and very bed swelling and bruising on my leg and foot. Went to another Urgent Care for a second opinion and he said he thought it was an Achilles Ruptured and referred me to Orthopedic Surgeon. Went to see him almost a week later and he diagnosed me with a calf muscle tear and I am now in a air cast walking boot for 4 weeks. The bruising is starting to lighten up but still some swelling and i still can not walk on with my foot flat on the ground. i just kinda wish the Orthopedic Surgeon would have done a MRI or Ultrasound or something. What do you think i should do??
Please see my reply to your similar comment on the Calf Muscle Strain Treatment video.
You are the greatest!. Your explanation and dedication on this is so good! I wish I had you and your videos a week ago when I had my calf / Aquiles tendon issue skiing 🥲😢
Thank you for your kind support and help. You are very good!
Thanks for watching!
My calf pop and it is really painful
Thanks for the advice my right calf is torn and my left one is strained
Thank you for the information here. You’re describing exactly what happened to me.
You are welcome
I feel a pop sensation, but it doesn’t hurt at all. It also hasn’t really affected my running and I mainly feel it when walking barefoot. It seems that there’s also slightly less flexibility in the popping calf than the other one. Is this just a minor tear?
You'll have to have it assessed to know what it is. But if it is something that continuously pops as you walk, then it is likely not a tear. If it was a once-off pop then it might be a small tear but could also be something that is tight and the treatment would be very different, so pls have it assessed.
Great advice. Better than the adviser
Grrrr! I just got over a two week chest infection. First day back to my Muay Thai training and my left Achilles was tender so while skipping I jumped mostly in my right. Halfway through and I had a painful pop in the right calf. The medial head of the gastrocnemius is now quite sore and tender to the touch. I hope it’s not torn.. I think I might be getting too old for this sport lol.
did the same thing skipping for boxing after a lay off from a spine injury, have you had any success?
I've literally just done the same thing at Muay Thai! Right calf felt tight during warm up, painful during skipping first kick I threw popped my calf, now at day 3 and it's incredibly painful and tight, do I just continue to rest and start walking when it's feeling less tight?? 😢
I tore my calf and LCL while playing basketball. Running full speed, get tripped up and land all 240lbs of me on a fully extended knee. Its week two and Im jogging with no pain, still hurts to run, and my calf tear bruise just showed up as a big yellow blotch, its a deep tear. If Im up lightly jogging already my LCL tear can't be that bad. Hang in there all, one day at a time!
Thanks for sharing!
Felt a huge pop then a searing burning pain in my gastrocnemius & soleus muscles (doing Muay Thai Trainjng), its day 3, i can walk (only just and woth my foot turned out) but its incredibly tight and painful- will it heal by itself or did i do something bad!?
Sounds like you've got a significant calf tear. I would get it checked by a physio to make sure it is not something more serious and also get some rehab advice. It can usually make it easier to walk if you wear shoes with heels (like running shoes) instead of flat shoes because it takes some of the strain off the calf.
I heard a pop while running but i dont feel any pain at all😅 is it a tear or just a strain ? Its very stiff in the leg so i cant walk that well whats should i do ?😢
Get it checked soon as possible - you need to make sure that you've not torn something important like the Achilles tendon because that can sometimes be pain free even when torn fully.
After 3 weeks of getting my gastrocnemius muscle micro tear and strain while playing volleyball, I still feel burning while driving or walking for more than few metres. Is it normal while healing ?
It could be but it is really difficult to say without knowing all the details and assessing you so perhaps ask your physio.
If you wanted help with your rehab and an exercise plan, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
Thank you so much
You're most welcome
4 days ago, during badminton I got hurt on my calf muscle and now I am getting some bruises on my muscles! Still pain is there! May I get your suggestions?
Regards
That does sound like you've torn it. This video about recurring calf strains will help you understand how to get it better and avoid reinjury th-cam.com/video/JT2qEqfg3as/w-d-xo.html
How high up can you feel the "pop" if it's an Achilles tear vs a calf muscle tear?
Anywhere in about lower third of lower leg
Thank you.
Welcome!
I tore mine 9 years ago and have never healed fully. The aching strain and pain comes back daily. Things I can't prevent the pain from coming back in my day to day life such as working my foot pedals in my car. The constant braking and acceleration is constantly straining my calves. I can't run at all. Even going grocery shopping is torturous and will hinder me for days.
Scar tissue maybe?
How do I tell the difference between a popped calf muscle, a cramp and an embolism?
It is about mechanism of injury (how it started) and how the symptoms react afterwards. The 3 conditions have similarities but also key differences. If you are struggling to figure it out, get it assessed by a physio or doctor, they will be able to put the info together and figure it out.
Should I be concerned that my calf pops fairly regularly just by stretching? 😅 it usually happens after long shifts in my job which is very physically demanding, I recorded my steps once in a 6 hour shift which is one of the shortest shifts I do, they can span from 6 hours to 14, and I recorded 28,000 steps in those 6 hours. I try to keep hydrated but I could be better at drinking water and I have a relatively healthy diet.
I would start by optimizing your shoes. Your shifts are equivalent to endurance training and you need to wear shoes that support your feet and calves e.g. have cushion and arch support. Typically running shoes work well for this but it is not always possible to wear that for work.
I felt an electrical shock with a popping on my calf. Now at day 2 icing,and I can barely walk
I strained my muscle maybe not a pop, but I have to let my team know how long my recovery would be. How long roughly would a full recovery take?
Hi Joel,
It's really not possible to say without an assessment, as it depends on the severity of the strain. Generally, it takes 6 to 12 weeks to get back to full sport. The best way to get a more definitive answer is to have your injury assessed by a phyio.
Here's some more general information about calf injuries: www.sports-injury-physio.com/calf-strains
I just torn my calf as well playing ball this past sunday....I felt like a small pop ...but hurt like hell..
How long did it take to heal? I did the same on Tuesday 😫
yesterday i heard a loud popped and found out immediately i cant walk normally my left calf was very paintful
Yip - that sounds like you've torn something in your calf. It can be useful to get it checked by a physiotherapist to ensure it is your muscles (not so serious) and not your Achilles tendon (more serious). If it is the Achilles tendon, it requires different and immediate treatment. This video explains how to diagnose Achilles tears: th-cam.com/video/40ytqVSXLJg/w-d-xo.html
👉 If you want help figuring this out, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com
Felt a pop in my calf on leg curl machine yesterday, felt weird as hell
Last night I was at a barn dance all of sudden it felt like I was kicked in the calf muscle and I felt like a pop or crack or something , I then couldn’t put weight on it or walk , thought it was cramp but stretching and massage didn’t help went to the hospital only for them to want me to go to another hospital across the water from me , so not sure what Iv done but I’ll go to my local walk in centre .
Sounds like a tear of either your calf or Achilles - Best wishes for your recovery!
@@SportsInjuryPhysio yes went to my walk-in hospital they said muscle damage and got crutches told me to look on TH-cam for muscle damage Exercises and rest it , my whole bottom of my leg keeps swelling soon as I get out of bed to walk been putting ice packs on it and muscle rub . And thank you 😊
just had my calf pop last night during a pickup basketball game. trying to make sense of what happened to my leg cause i still can’t really walk on it
If it only happened last night, then it will it will still be quite sore. A popped calf muscle = a tear and the size of the tear will determine healing time. Usually takes about 4 weeks for minor ones but yours sound more like a medium sized, so will likely take 8 to 12 weeks. But you must start gentle rehab in a few days to start restoring strength. This video provide some info: th-cam.com/video/JT2qEqfg3as/w-d-xo.html
Just tore my calf muscle a few days ago. Can’t put my heel on the floor 🤦🏾♂️
Wearing shoes with heels (even just regular trainers or add heel lift inserts into them) can make a huge difference at the start.
I’m
Worried of this happening to me
How to
Prevent this
Doing calf strengthening exercises, mobility exercises, and following a sensible training plan for whatever sport you are doing is usually the best way to prevent calf strains.
My calf muscle popping over and over again when I’m walking or put to much pressure on it after not being able to straighten it for a few hours after waking up, wish it would only do it once it’s getting annoying haha , the pain alleviates when I point my toes up so must be just a tear
Was running at softball and felt a pop in the back of my calf. Swelled immediately, but bruised a week later. The pop was strictly my calf. The treatment where i live isnt the best, any ideas?
That sounds like a typical calf strain so it should react well to a progressive rehab plan to help the muscles recover and strengthen back up.
If you wanted help with your rehab and an exercise plan, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
@@SportsInjuryPhysio thanks a ton for your response! I appreciate it!!!
Very informative video 25/5/23🇬🇧
It felt like someone hit me in the back of my calf with a tennis ball while I was driving to the hole playing basketball
💯 that's how I felt 😢
@@byronatapuai8017yup ... same here
I popped my calf about a year and a half ago and I swear it looks like I only have half a calf or it's up to high in my leg
That can happen when you tear a significant amount of the muscle and it doesn't knit back together.
I was playing soccer and it felt like someone kicked my calf. How do I know if I have injured my calf or achilles?
It is always best to get it checked because if it is the Achilles its chances of healing without surgery is much better if you get it seen to immediately. But I discuss how you can know if it is your Achilles in this video: th-cam.com/video/40ytqVSXLJg/w-d-xo.html
How can I rehab a calf strain with insertional Achilles pain
Use the same principals you would use for insertional Achilles tendonitis: th-cam.com/video/mWUzsQILzWA/w-d-xo.html
I just had 3 pops up my calf and I can barely walk
What's the best treatment for a tennis player with .minor calf strain?
Strength training - tennis involves explosive quick contractions from the calf muscles as you move so you have to make sure that you strengthen it properly, including plyometrics in final rehab before you go back to full competition and full-out training. My colleague Steph is very experienced in high level tennis and rehab of tennis players and will be able to help you with this via video call if you wanted a specific rehab plan. You can read more about Steph here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/sports-physiotherapist-steph-davies and you can find more information about the video consultations here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
My calf muscle popped while playing basketball 2 days ago and untill now i cannot walk.. it is painful and i cannot stretch my left leg.. i went to the doctor and he just prescribe me some pain killers..and adviced me to take a 5 days rest..
Google "Use of recovery modalities in elite athletes" Rest and painkillers definitely isn't the answer.
@Moments with Vanessa yah..it is better now, i did see a doctor and he just prescribed me some pain killers..and its been 2 weeks ago since it happened..but until now there are moments that i feel some pinching pain on my achilles part..
@@rnltv8749 hello, how are feeling now man? I had the same injury 2 weeks ago and its still impossible to walk. Are you able to walk now?
Hope you feeling better
Happened to me today
@Puujee O shit happened to me today. I played through it cause I thought it was a cramp or something. Now it hurt when I try to walking up the steps.feels better if I us my heel for whatever reason
When I was taking out my shoe, my calf popped as I pressed the ground, and it insansely hurt me for 2-3 minutes. Even though the sore is mostly gone, it still hurts when I walk especially in stairs. It feels like Im pushing my muscle so hard, and if I push it more it will tear off. This happened to me after playing in a soccer game ( havent been playing for a month ). What exactly is happened to me, and what should I do? I can't go to hospital for 4-5 days.
Hi Pushin,
We cannot provide individual treatment advice without doing an in-depth assessment of your injury and your personal circumstances, as the advice might not be appropriate for you. You're welcome to book a video consultation with one of our physios if you would like an assessment and a personalised treatment plan: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
Hey, are you back playing? This just happened to me so trying to see how long the recovery will be
@@LowProfile26 hey bro yea im good now. After the incident I rested for 2 days, and kept playing football (every week) after 5 days, and slightly hurt my ankle out of nowhere in each game for 3-4 weeks (it got kinda fragile). Then I stopped playing or exercising for about a month due to exams. Now I'm totally fine. My advice is even if you feel totally fine don't do any intense physical activity for 3-4 weeks. Get well soon & good luck.
@@2lit2behumble thanks for that and glad you’re all good! Mine felt like I was kicked really hard in the ankle, turned around and no one was near me haha. Others say they heard the snap :( fingers crossed for a swift recovery! 🙏🏽
@@LowProfile26 same man. i was in changing room and screamed like I got shot, my boy near me told about hearing a snap as well. take care n rest🙏🏽
Hi, I went to the gym on Sunday and did calf raises. I forgot to stretch before and after, and it was also my first time back at the gym after a while. My calf now hurts still today to straighten my leg fully when I'm standing. It hurts less if I stand on my tip toe with my knee bent. It still hurts less to stand straight up on my tip toe than it does to attempt to stand straight like normal on my whole foot. Doo you have any idea what this could be?
It really depends on exactly where the pain is - it can be the gastroc muscle that is injured or the lower hamstring tendons (if the pain is not too low in calf but quite high up and more to the outer or inner sides).
If you wanted help figuring this out and what to do, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
would calf compression sleeves or calf support be helpful during sports? thank you
Not really - you have to make sure that you rebuild the strength before going to sport. Calf supports provide pressure into the muscles, but the muscle is loaded lengthwise. So, even though they can feel nice to wear they don't reduce strain.
@@SportsInjuryPhysio I am trying to look for some calf muscle strengthening exercises in your videos but cant find any, are there some you could recommend? My sport is badminton and it is quite a fast sport and heavy on the knees and now to my calves
If you have a calf injury, it would be better to see a physio to get excercises that are correct for your injury and your sport. This is something that one of our physios can help you with. More info here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
If you're not injured, this article has several leg strength exercises - jump to "Single Leg Heel Raise Over Step" for the calves. There's also a link to a short demo video. www.sports-injury-physio.com/post/strength-training-programme-for-busy-runners
Something popped , felt like a rubber band snapping. I can barely walk. I'm not sure she understands 😂
How are you later and now? That’s what we’re looking help for.
Just happened to me. Went to the Doc. She said there's nothing to do but walk it off once it isn't painful to do so.
Came across this looking for the best option to move forward. I have had a full rupture of my achilles in Nov 2014 and that calf is struggles to stay balanced. I popped it just walking in really cold weather before Christmas and was trying to massage it the last week as it was still very tight but wasn't going to be able to get an appointment until after the holidays.
Then yesterday, I popped it again out with the horses in the mud and it was ouch. It's about mid way, even slightly higher on the belly of the calf. It feels very deep so possibly the soleus? Doesn't feel too bad palating it. My soleus has been so tight since the surgery and really hard to keep on top of.
My question is, when is it OK to go for a massage? Trying to rest it but I do have to go out to the horse daily now as I have just brought her in.
This was a great help!
I’m not a runner or a jogger, I have fibromyalgia and I’m just about able to walk at times. Two weeks ago I got up at 6am to let the dog out for a wee, walking down the stairs my calf muscles were very tight on both legs to the point they were painful. I sorted the dog and went to the bathroom myself where I rubbed my calves and hoped I wouldn’t get a cramp (a regular occurrence ☹️) walking back into the kitchen as I stepped on my right leg I heard and felt a massive pop and pain shot through my body. I couldn’t put any weight on it or even put my heel to the floor, I had to crawl back upstairs! Two weeks later an MRI shows a tear deep in the muscle. I need crutches to walk, I can put my heel down but it’s very tender. My first physio session is tomorrow and I can’t wait. Being on crutches it’s not just my calf needing physio every muscle in my body needs a massage 😩😩
Thanks for sharing, and good luck with your recovery.
I’ve just popped my clave muscle leaning over a car bonnet and damn it hurts!! Pop, wince, now I can’t walk🙄
🙈
Are there any treatments for a popped gastroc soleus?
It is usually a combination of limiting any activities that hurt + doing strength training which consists of heel raises - but what type of heel raise and with how much weight and how to progress will depend on your specific case. You have to start with ones that does not cause pain and slowly build the intensity over several weeks until you reach the strength needed for your sport.
If you wanted help with your rehab and an exercise plan, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
Popped it playing volleyball sprinting after a bad pass…
I heard my calf muscle pop 6 weeks ago. I couldn’t walk fro about 2 weeks. Today I can walk on it but I cant walk a long time because my heel ends up hurting. I feel a lot or tightness in both calf’s now. MRI said low grade strain but I have an I’ll defined plantaris tendon, suspicious for a tear. Am I suppose to strengthen my calf?
Thanx. My story is a chiropractor aligned my hips, which have been off for many many years. So when I jog now my left calf hurts but before it was my right calf. My right calf is stronger, of course. So I felt strain and jogging yesterday and then today I popped L calf playing tennis.
I'm a 5'9, male, 215 lbs, popped my calf muscle 8 weeks ago. I went to the ER and the doctor made me stand on my toes, which I could barely do and the doctor said it was a gastrocnemius grade 2 tear. I've started wearing a heel but it feels like I'm stuck in the healing progress. I can't use crutches due to a spine injury that affects my shoulders. I'm at a loss for what to do other than rest.
Starting with very gentle strength training can often make a huge difference but it has to be at the correct intensity for what your calf can currently do - sometimes even just with no real weight.
If you wanted help with your rehab and an exercise plan, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/services
PRice. Protect. Raise
Ice. Compression. Elevation
I was playing softball and hit the ball began to run and felt a deep pop in my left calf. Now I can barely put any pressure on that leg. Should I see a doctor?
It depends - who can you see the most quickly? Basically you want to make sure that it wasn't your Achilles tendon that was involved (and that goes up about half way to middle of calf). If you can see a good physio more quickly than a doctor, then see the physio because they can assess it and advise on whether you need a scan etc. and if it is just a muscle tear, they can advise on rehab going forward as well. But if you don't have quick access to a physio, see your doctor as they will be able to assess it and rule out Achilles tear or order scan if needed and then refer you to a physio.
@@SportsInjuryPhysio the pain goes from behind my knee all the way to my ankle
Happened to me today playing pickle ball. Felt a quick snap and I immediately hobbled off the court walking on my heel. Icing and elevating it with advil every 5 hours.
pickle ball 💀
@@zentifygt4842 ok happened to me playing tennis. What’s your reply now slouch
@@chrisbertinelli3694 goofy ass sport
How was your recovery? Happened to me today playing basketball
@@joshuachan9531 went for a MRI and there was a grade 2-3 tear. Went to physical therapy and a chiropractor for stimulation on my calf. I also did Cupping which gets the blood flow. I was back playing in less then a month. I did a Lotta ice on and off every day for three weeks
I was doing sled pushes . Just started and it felt like someone threw a tennis ball at my calf . Just happened today
That does sound like a tear so look after it.
If you wanted help with your rehab and an exercise plan, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
I heard a loud pop😮
I had the pain exactly behind the knee
What it could be??
Hi Mugilan,
We cannot provide individual treatment advice without doing an in-depth assessment of your injury and your personal circumstances, as the advice might not be appropriate for you. You're welcome to book a video consultation with one of our physios if you would like an assessment and a personalised treatment plan: www.sports-injury-physio.com/
Watching this actually gives me trauma from the day my muscle popped pushing a pram up a hill.
Thanks for your advice. My lower calf popped yesterday. I felt like I was shot on the back of my leg. I can’t put any weight on it so now in bed resting with my leg up, getting to the toilet is agony. Hopefully in the next 24 hrs I can walk on it.
this literally happened to me Friday evening, have been hobbling about for the last two days and can't put me heal down !
Hope you are on the mend
@@nudgexs Sorry to hear that and hope you get better soon. It’s been 3 weeks now to the day and I’ve only started walking with a limp or pain in the last few days. The first 4 days were the worst, I ordered the sport ice packs (2x) and just kept them in the freezer and kept my leg raised. Entire bottom leg went black and blue after about a week, it’s now just about clear. Take care and rest as much as possible.
@@bmclaughlin01 oh wow that sounds really tough, 3 weeks is long time to be debilitated, I've only had 40ish hours and already completely fed up of it. Did you see a Doctor / Physio? I have been advised to call my Doctor tomorrow but am not holding out much hope for an appoinment any time soon
@@nudgexs I called the doctor after about 7 days because people kept telling me I needed to see someone. At the point I was hobbling about with crutches. His first question was had the swelling gone down, no? I asked about physio and was informed I needed wait until the swelling and bruising had gone down. In summary, I don’t think you need to see a doctor unless it’s really bad and requires surgery. In that case it’s better to go to the hospital and get an X-ray.