Calf strains are one of the most common muscle injuries in the lower leg, often resulting from sudden movements or overstretching during sports, exercise, or even daily activities. The calf muscles—primarily the gastrocnemius and soleus—are responsible for pushing the foot downward (plantarflexion) and propelling the body forward while walking, running, or jumping.
When these muscles are overstretched or torn, it leads to pain, swelling, and loss of strength. The severity of a calf strain can range from mild muscle overstretching to a partial or complete tear.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we help patients from Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas recover quickly and safely with precise diagnosis, targeted rehabilitation, and advanced treatment options.
Understanding Calf Strains
A calf strain occurs when one or more of the muscle fibers in the calf are overstretched or torn. Most injuries affect the gastrocnemius, which crosses both the knee and ankle joints, making it particularly vulnerable during explosive movements like sprinting or jumping.
The soleus muscle, located deeper in the calf, can also be strained, especially in endurance athletes or individuals who walk or stand for long periods.
Calf strains are categorized into three grades of severity:
Risk Factors:
Calf strain symptoms can range from mild tightness to sudden, severe pain, depending on the injury’s grade.
Common signs include:
Prompt evaluation ensures proper healing and prevents recurrence or long-term weakness.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, Dr. Robert L. Burke performs a thorough evaluation to determine the injury’s severity and rule out more serious conditions like Achilles tendon rupture or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Diagnostic process includes:
Imaging:
Accurate diagnosis helps determine the appropriate treatment plan and rehabilitation schedule.
Treatment depends on the injury’s grade, patient goals, and activity level. Most calf strains heal well with conservative care, though severe tears may require surgery.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Most mild to moderate calf strains recover fully with these measures.
Surgical Treatments
Dr. Burke may recommend surgery for Grade III tears or if the muscle fails to heal naturally.
Surgical options:
Post-surgical rehabilitation focuses on gradual stretching and strengthening to restore normal movement and prevent re-injury.
Rehabilitation goals:
Gradual loading is key — returning too quickly increases the risk of re-injury.
With early treatment and guided rehabilitation, most patients recover completely and return to normal activity without limitations.
Prevention tips:
Proper conditioning and awareness are the best defenses against recurrence.
Contact Dr. Burke Orthopedics if you experience:
Prompt evaluation ensures correct treatment and prevents chronic complications.
If calf pain or tightness is holding you back, expert orthopedic care can help you recover and prevent future injury.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we specialize in diagnosing and treating calf strains and lower leg injuries using advanced, evidence-based methods tailored to your goals.
We proudly serve Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, providing complete care from diagnosis through rehabilitation.
Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule your consultation with Dr. Robert L. Burke, board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in lower leg and sports injuries.
