Lauren asked the Guru: Calf pain

April 3, 2014

I’ve had calf pain (left calf) for almost 3 weeks now following on from a tough 20 mile race and not adequate rest in the days following. There was no specific pain or pop, it just gradually got worse day by day. I rested it for 8 days during which it was extremely painful to walk on, I found myself limping and hobbling around. It seemed to improve so I started running
again, but now I’m back to square one after only 2 runs. I’ve rested it for another 4 days but there is no improvement. There is no bruising or swelling, but just consistent dull pain. I can walk on it but it feels awkward and not right, and if I jump or run (anything where I put considerable weight on it) it feels like it’s going to give way, and the pain is quite bad. I’ve been
following RICE, but with just over 6 weeks until the Manchester marathon I’m wondering what would be the best course of action.

Customer
April 3, 2014

Cripes – next week!

Its all due to lack of calf endurance strength and your shoes not giving you adequate control….

At 5000 steps per mile, shoes that don’t control the rolling in of your feet will start to over stretch your calf muscle – so NO stretching, lots of gastroc and soleus strength and sort your shoes!

….really sorry for the delay, fingers crossed you’re sorted

The Guru
Six Physio

Guru Responded

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