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An early stretching routine for calf muscle strains
Medicine and Science in Sports
|January 1, 1976
Summary
Early treatment of calf muscle strains, involving ice, ultrasound, and targeted exercises, leads to a 6-day recovery and a 1% recurrence rate. This approach aids in preventing disability and ensures a swift return to sport.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
Background:
- Calf muscle strains are common injuries, particularly among athletes.
- Delayed presentation for treatment can impact recovery outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a specific rehabilitation protocol for calf muscle strains.
- To determine the average treatment duration and recurrence rate.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 400 patients with calf muscle strains received a standardized treatment regimen.
- Treatment included modalities for pain relief (ice, shortwave therapy), passive stretching, ultrasound, and progressive exercises.
- Rehabilitation focused on antagonist muscles followed by the injured calf muscle, incorporating quadriceps exercises and gait training.
Main Results:
- The average delay to presentation was 8 days.
- Average treatment duration was 6 days.
- The recurrence rate of calf muscle strains was observed to be 1%.
Conclusions:
- Early intervention and a structured rehabilitation program are effective for calf muscle strains.
- The described protocol facilitates a rapid return to sport and minimizes disability.
- Preventative strategies include pre-activity stretching and strengthening exercises for the calf.