Calf pain occurs on the lower part of the leg as a result of pulled or torn muscles from sports or other daily routines. Self-induced at most times, calf pain or strain is similar to Achilles tendon tear but occurs in the higher area. A sudden cramp ache is felt, and it is often followed by calf pain swelling that persists in serious cases, but subsides after a day or two in simple grades of muscle strain. Calf pain causes a person to sit and rest more often and refrain from the usual rigors of sports and physical activities

It is important for one to understand that most calf pain result from sudden jerks and forced stretch movements, and also during sudden acceleration in running and swift changing of directions or steps. Calf pain symptoms often become basis for home medications, but it is always safe to seek the doctor’s advice and let them work on the best calf pain treatment. In cases of an injury, one gets recurring calf pain, discoloration of the lower leg area, bleeding, and persistent calf pain swelling, the doctor should be contacted immediately.

One should also understand that there are different kinds of calf pain and physicians would base calf pain treatment depending on the level of severity. Some calf pain symptoms result from micro tearing of muscle fibers while others are complete tearing and would need over 3 months before recovery.

Calf pain treatment lists usually start with R.I.C.E. or rest, ice, compression and elevation. Both doctors and your own mom would recommend this, starting with relieving your lower legs of movements and stress. Then ice packs are applied to calf pain swelling area at least 3 times a day, and the wrapping of calf to keep blood from pooling in the foot. Then the leg is elevated at shoulder level to reduce swelling.

Simple methods of rehabilitation of calf pain and injuries could also be done at home, starting with resting the muscle and refraining from activities that cause pain. Resume your sports only when you’re totally freed from calf pain symptoms.

Also, do passive stretching when the severe calf pain has gone and do muscle stretch in both legs. Gently pull your foot and toes with legs up straight and hold for a few seconds. Repeat this process no more than 10 times. Later on, do active stretching and progressive strengthening exercises. Before doing so, always wear exercise tubing to prevent calf pain symptoms from coming back.

It is very important that your rehabilitation needs to be suited for you and your calf pain injury, so always get your physician’s approval before pursuing any rehab method on your own. Make sure you are free of calf pain and calf pain swelling when you can already jog, jump or walk without limping or discomfort. Your physician would also determine if you’re capable of full range motion and strength to pursue the rigors of rehabilitation.