The soleus muscle or calf muscle is situated in the back part of the lower leg. If an individual ends up with a strained calf muscle, it occurs once there is a partial tear in the muscle fibers. Factors that can increase the risk for developing a soleus muscle strain include tight calf muscles, engaging in strenuous sports and fatigue.
The strains can be due to a direct blow to the soleus muscle or overuse. In most cases, conservative modes of treatment are typically used when managing a strained soleus muscle.
Measures to managed a strained soleus muscle
It is important that you are familiar with the following measures when managing a strained soleus muscle. These measures can provide relief if an individual is suspected with an injured soleus.
- A commonly used first aid measure is the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, elevation). Initially, you have to instruct the individual to rest the affected leg and avoid any physical activity or sports. Apply an ice pack on the affected leg for 15-20 minutes at a time for four times in a day. Do not forget to cover the ice pack with a clean cloth or towel to prevent further damage on the skin. The individual must also wear a compression bandage around the soleus muscle to help minimize the swelling. Lastly, elevate the affected leg by propping on pillows or cushions in order to keep it higher than the level of the heart during the initial day if possible. If you want to learn more about the RICE method, you can take a course on first aid training in Red Deer today.
- You can provide over-the-counter medications for pain as directed by a doctor. These medications work by reducing the inflammation and pain caused by the strained soleus muscle.
- Encourage the individual to engage in a stretching program once the pain is completely reduced in order to minimize future injuries. Physical therapy would be recommended by the doctor. In most cases, the individual will perform towel stretching, seated calf stretching and heel raises in order to help strengthen as well as stretch the hamstrings. Each stretch performed must be held for about 10 seconds. Always remember that these stretches must be completed in one set of six repetitions at four to six times a day.
Important considerations to bear in mind
If the individual could not take the appropriate steps to heal the strained soleus muscles, the muscle faces a higher risk for further injury. The individual should gradually resume his/her activities and exercise routine in order to minimize the risk for another injury in the future.
The ideal way to prevent a strained soleus muscle is to warm up and stretch properly before exercising or engaging in any type of sports. This is vital for individuals who regularly engage in physical activities as well as sports.