How long does a gastrocnemius tear take to heal?
In total, it usually takes up to three days for a pulled calf muscle to start feeling better. But a full recovery may take up to six weeks, according to Oxford University Hospitals. Severe swelling can make any pain and discomfort last a bit longer. Walking on recovering calf muscles can also increase recovery time.
How do you treat a tear in the gastrocnemius?
Treatment for a gastrocnemius muscle tear
- Rest. Avoid walking or other activities that cause pain.
- Ice. Putting ice on the injured area may ease swelling.
- Elevation.
- Prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
- Walking boot or crutches.
- Heel lifts.
- Compression sleeve.
- Strengthening and stretching exercises.
Does a gastrocnemius tear need surgery?
Tears of the gastrocnemius muscle are relatively common injuries, occurring most frequently in tennis players and in fact are commonly referred to as “tennis leg.”1, 2, 3, 4 These injuries typically occur at the musculotendinous junction of the medial head of the gastrocnemius and nearly always can be managed without …
Can you walk with a torn gastrocnemius?
A calf muscle tear usually causes sudden, intense calf pain and may prevent you from walking or bearing weight on your leg. Calf muscle tears usually heal with conservative treatments, but sometimes require surgery.
Should you wear a boot for a torn calf muscle?
You may have been given a boot, possibly with heel wedges. It is not needed to aid healing but it will improve your symptoms. You may walk on the foot as comfort allows. You will find it easier to walk with crutches in the early stages.
Can you walk on a grade 3 calf strain?
– Grade 3 calf strain (6 – 12 weeks). A grade 3 calf strain is a severe injury involving a complete tear to half or all of the calf muscle. Crutches or even a moon boot may be required to enable walking due to severe pain and weakness. Immediate swelling and bruising will be present within 24 hours.
What does a Grade 2 calf strain feel like?
Grade II: A second degree or moderate injury is a partial muscle tear halting activity. There is a clear loss of strength and range of motion. with marked pain, swelling and often bruising. Muscle fibre disruption between 10 and 50%.
How do I know what grade my calf tear is?
The grades are:
- Grade 1. A mild or partial stretch or tearing of a few muscle fibers. The muscle is tender and painful, but maintains its normal strength.
- Grade 2. A moderate stretch or tearing of more muscle fibers. The muscle is more tender, and there is pain.
- Grade 3. A severe tear of the muscle fibers.
Can you walk with a Grade 2 calf strain?
Usually minimal or no limits to activity. Grade II calf strain: Moderate discomfort with walking. Limited ability to perform activities such as running and jumping. May have swelling and bruising.