Overview
What is the Calf Muscle?
The calf muscle can be found behind your shinbone in the back of your lower legs. Actually, it actually has three muscles. The muscles allow you to walk, run and jump.
What’s the purpose of the calves muscle?
When you stand, your calf muscle supports your leg and allows you to move your foot. It pushes you forward, propelling you forward as you run or walk. It allows you to leap, rotate your ankle and flex your foot, as well as “lock” your knee.
Is there a calf muscle?
The soleus and gastrocnemius are the main muscles of the calf muscle. These two muscles attach to your Achilles tendon above your heel. Some providers refer to the soleus and gastrocnemius as one big muscle that has two sections.
A small muscle called the “plantaris” runs between the soleus and gastrocnemius along the length of the lower legs. These three muscles are called the triceps suprae by providers. However, not all people have a plantaris muscles. Around 10% of people have only two muscles larger than the average.
The main muscles of the calf include:
Gastrocnemius
This muscle is located just below your skin on the back of your lower leg. You can often see the outline of the gastrocnemius because it is so close to the skin. It is the bulk of your calf muscles.
The top of the gastrocnemius’s head has two heads. They start on the outside and the inside of the femur (thighbone). The gastrocnemius attaches to the Achilles tendon at the back of the leg. Because the muscle connects with two joints, the gastrocnemius tends to strains.
Soleus
The soleus muscle is a broad, flat muscle that lies slightly below the gastrocnemius. It begins just below your knee and runs down to your lower leg, connecting with the Achilles tendon at the heel. Because the muscle does not cross the ankle joint, soleus injuries are much less common.
The soleus connects with your tibia (the bones of your lower leg) and your fibula (the bones of your lower leg). The soleus is a part of your gastrocnemius and helps you run, jump, walk, and cycle. The soleus also supports your legs so that you can maintain good posture.
How does the calf muscle look?
The skeletal muscles are part of the musculoskeletal system. Skeletal muscles are made up of many individual fibers. These fibers are bundled together to form a striated appearance.
Conditions and Disorders
What are the conditions and disorders that affect the calf muscles?
The following conditions can affect the calf muscles:
* Muscle strain is the most common type of calf injury. This happens when muscle fibers are stretched too far or torn. This injury is usually caused by overuse or strenuous exercise. This injury is common for running, and other sports that involve jumping or quick stops, like soccer, basketball and volleyball.
* Leg cramps: Muscle cramps or muscle spasms can cause severe pain in the legs. Leg cramps can occur at night or during the day. These cramps can be caused by several factors including pregnancy, dehydration and certain medical conditions.
* Tennis leg: This is a type of muscle strain injury that affects the gastrocnemius muscles. It is commonly called tennis leg by providers because the leg extends and the foot bends. It can also happen in other sports. When they serve a tennis ball, tennis players place their leg in this position and then “push off”.
* Compartment Syndrome: This is a serious and life-threatening condition that occurs when pressure builds up in a muscle. This pressure causes a decrease in blood flow and oxygen. Trauma (such as a broken bone) or strenuous exercise can cause injury.
These conditions are very common.
A common injury among athletes is calf muscle strain. This type of injury is more common in athletes who are involved in sprinting or quick footwork.
Leg cramps are also quite common and more common as you get older. According to estimates, 75% of those over 50 have experienced leg cramps at one time or another.
What are the most common symptoms or signs of conditions that affect the calf muscle
A problem in the calf muscle could lead to:
* Calf muscle pain, tightness, and stiffness. It may feel dull or sharp. It could start as mild pain that gradually gets worse.
* Reduced mobility (ability to move), reduced range of motion, or weakness.
* A prominent bulge or lump at the back of the lower leg.
* Calf tenderness or bruises.
Take care
How can I maintain a healthy calf?
You can avoid problems with your calves muscles by:
Keep your weight in a healthy range. People with more weight are more likely than others to pull a muscle. An excess weight can put pressure on your legs, and increase the risk of injury such as a strain. Talk to your doctor if you are overweight or obese.
Keep hydrated. A lot of fluids and water can reduce the chance of cramping your legs.
Warm up and stretch before you start exercising. Calf muscles that feel warm are less likely at risk of being stretched or torn. Warm up before you begin any physical activity. This will help to increase flexibility and stretch your calves. Increase the intensity of your exercise gradually.
Be aware of your medication: Some medications can cause leg cramps. Talk to your doctor about taking another medication that doesn’t cause this side effect.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
What time should I call my doctor to discuss my calf muscle problem?
Call your provider if you experience severe or sudden calf discomfort that doesn’t go away after a few days of rest. Calf pain or other symptoms that may be indicative of muscle strain could actually be signs and symptoms of a more serious medical condition such as a blood vessel thrombosis (DVT), nerve damage, or Achilles tendonitis.
If you need help immediately, please contact us.
* Edema is a swelling, warmth, redness, or tenderness of the calf.
* Tingling or numbness.
* Muscle weakness or difficulty moving your lower leg.
Note from Cleveland Clinic
Calf muscles are responsible for moving your ankles, lower legs and feet. It allows you to move your feet and walk, run, jump, and flex them. It supports your legs and allows you to stand straighter. Calf pain is common from leg cramps and muscle strains. Keep your calf muscles strong by being active, drinking lots of water, and warming up before exercising. If you feel calf tenderness that does not improve within a few days, or if there is severe swelling, redness, or pain in your calf, you should call your provider.
