Understanding Gastrocnemius Muscle Tear

 How to say it

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What causes a gastrocnemius muscle tear?

This injury can happen if you make a sudden quick movement that overstretches the muscle. Such movements include jumping and quickly changing direction. People who play sports like tennis or basketball are more likely to suffer such a muscle tear. Exercising too much or not warming up properly can weaken the gastrocnemius muscle.

Symptoms of a gastrocnemius muscle tear

At the time of injury, you may hear a popping sound or feel a tearing sensation in your calf. Other symptoms include:

• Pain.

• Swelling.

• Bruising.

• Problems walking or putting weight on the injured leg.

Treatment for a gastrocnemius muscle tear

Treatment depends on how severe the muscle tear is. The severity will also affect how long it takes to heal. Treatments may include:

• Rest. Avoid walking or other activities that cause pain.

• Ice. Putting ice on the injured area may ease swelling.

• Elevation. Propping up your calf slightly above the level of your heart may ease swelling.

• Prescription or over-the-counter medicines. These help reduce pain and swelling.

• Walking boot or crutches. Your health care provider may fit you with one of these devices to help you move with less pain.

• Heel lifts. These are placed inside your shoes. When you wear them, your calf won’t stretch as much, easing pain.

• Compression sleeve. You may need to wear one of these to decrease swelling and help prevent blood clots in your injured leg.

• Strengthening and stretching exercises. Certain exercises can help you regain strength and flexibility in your calf.

Complications of gastrocnemius muscle tear

• Calf weakness

• Acute compartment syndrome, when pressure builds up in the muscles of the foot and impedes blood flow

• Deep vein thrombosis, when blood clots form in the veins of the legs

When to get medical advice

Contact your health care provider right away if you have:

• A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your provider.

• Chills.

• Pain that gets worse despite pain medicine and rest.

• Symptoms that don’t get better or that get worse.

• New symptoms.