There are two muscles in the lower leg that make up the calf. The gastrocnemius is the larger upper calf muscle, and the soleus is the lower muscle. Either of these muscles is susceptible to being overly stretched. When this occurs, it is possible for the muscle fibers to tear, creating what is also known as a pulled muscle. Regardless of which muscle is torn or what caused the injury, the steps to take to treat it are similar.
First Action
When the muscle is first pulled, it is important to apply ice to the calf. This will reduce the amount of swelling. Elevating the leg can also help ward off excessive swelling. Moist heat can be applied after 48 hours, or alternated with ice to speed healing.
Rest
Try not to overuse your calf muscle while it is healing. Movements that use the calf involve pushing off with (as in walking) or raising up on the toes. It may not be necessary to completely rest it (this depends on the severity of the pull), and in fact if you can increase blood flow to your calf muscle by slowly walking or doing toe raises, you may speed healing. However, always stop your activity short of pain.
Compression
Wrapping the calf in an elastic bandage will decrease the pain and protect the pulled muscle from further injury while it heals. Do not wrap your calf muscle too tightly. Loosen it if your foot becomes cold or numb.
Stretching
Contrary to what you may think, gently stretching a pulled calf muscle can actually help the healing process. When some muscle fibers are torn, others have an increased burden. Muscle fibers in the calf that are not torn may become stiff and overworked and stretching them can keep them from becoming tight or injured. Stretch the calf by leaning on a wall with one leg in front of the other, leaning in toward the front leg until you feel the stretch on your back leg. Make sure the stretch is gentle and does not reach the point of being uncomfortable.
Heel Pads or Cups
Heel pads or cups worn in the shoes can prevent the calf from overstretching and can give torn muscles an opportunity to heal. These pads can be purchased at drug stores and placed into the heel of the shoe. You should also try to wear athletic shoes, as these provide a slight bit of elevation and cushioning on their own.
Medication
Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen can reduce swelling which will increase healing time. It will also dull the pain of pulled calf muscle. Make sure you can tolerate such medications before taking them.
Medical Attention
If your pulled does not improve or is extremely painful, seek the attention of your physician who can determine whether your injury is serious and prescribe physical therapy if necessary.
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