Calf Strain in Athletes

Calf strain is a common condition. In high-performance athletes, calf strain contributes to a substantial absence from competition.

Player age and history of a calf strain or other leg injury are the strongest risk factors for calf strain injury and reinjury.

Although the diagnosis is often clinical, magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound are valuable to confirm the location of the strain and the grade of injury.

Nonoperative treatment is effective for most calf strain injuries. Operative management, although rarely indicated, may be appropriate for severe cases with grade-III rupture or complications.

Further investigation is necessary to elucidate the benefits of blood flow restriction therapy, deep water running, lower-body positive pressure therapy, platelet-rich plasma, and stem cell therapy for calf strain rehabilitation.