Tennis leg (Calf strains)
Mechanism of injury
Calf strain usually occurs after a sudden change of movement during sport (e.g.
tennis), or tripping or treading awkwardly onto a step.
Symptoms and signs
Sudden pain in the calf muscle above the Achilles tendon followed by an ache and
pain on walking. Sometimes there may be significant bruising and some swelling.
Treatment
- Rest: Walking about will lead to more pain and swelling.
- Ice: Helps reduce the swelling and pain. Use whatever is available
(crushed ice in a tea towel is ideal). Apply for 30 minutes every 2 hours
- Elevation: Keep your leg resting in a raised position to help get the
swelling down.
Expect improvement in a few days but a return to normal activity will take a
bit longer.
If the injury is severe and you cannot walk see your doctor urgently.
Further
information
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Categorie(s)
Sports injuries
Areaof
the body
Legs, knees, ankles, feet
Male
or female?
Both |
