Thestrainoccurs when the musclestretchestoo far, tearing the tendon and muscle portion of the calf.
The strain is commonly known as “tennis leg” because it’s so common among tennis players.
Generally, it doesn’t require surgery, but it hurts.
Verywell / Laura Porter
This article explains the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of a medial gastrocnemius strain.
Where Is the Medial Gastrocnemius?
The most commonly injured muscle when acalf strainoccurs is an injury to the medial gastrocnemius muscle.
For example, a minor injury might result in tightness in the calf.
A serious injury could trigger severe pain or difficulty extending the lower leg.
What Causes a Medial Gastrocnemius Strain?
Injuries can also happen in everyday life in physically demanding activities.
Your healthcare provider will listen to your report of the injury and do a physical examination.
A diagnostic ultrasound is the best way to confirm a gastrocnemius tear and grade the injury.
Other diagnostic tools can help, too.
Treatment of a medial gastrocnemius strain can usually be accomplished with simple steps.
The typical recovery time from a medial gastrocnemius strain is between four and six weeks.
Do Calf Splints Help Treat Medial Gastrocnemius Strain?
In some cases, calf splints or casts may help treat medial gastrocnemius strain.
Depending on injury severity, a splint may not be necessary.
Summary
A medial gastrocnemius strain leaves little doubt that something serious has happened.
You might even hear a popping or snapping sound at the moment the tear occurs.
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