Calf strain
www.londondanceclinic.co.uk
What is it? This is typically a macro-trauma or an acute injury to the belly of the calf muscle, leading to micro-tearing. The dancer feels an intense pull or pop in the middle of the muscle. Swelling and bruising can occur.
Pain is felt when contracting the muscle, as in releve or jumps. The severity of the strain is graded 1st, 2nd or 3rd, depending on the degree of tearing.
Common causes
• Excessive jumping.
• Muscle fatigue
• Tightness of the gastroc/soleus complex (calf muscles)
• Typically a greater incidence in males than females.
Treatment 1) Follow RICE:
R = REST the injured area. Do not attempt to continue to dance or be active. SIT DOWN!!
I = ICE the injured area 15-20 minutes every hour.
C = COMPRESS the area with an Ace bandage if available. Start at toes with the most compression and gradually reduce the pressure as you wrap up the ankle.
E = Elevate the injured area above the heart. This prevents the swelling from settling in the ankle joint.
2) See therapist for manual therapy to decrease swelling and spasm
3) Restore strength slowly, addressing flexibility issues
www.londondanceclinic.co.uk info@ www.londondanceclinic.co.uk
London Dance Clinic 30 Cumberland Mansions
Seymour Place - London W1H5TF