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	Leg
	Systemic
	Health
	Treatments
	Exercise
	For Physicians

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• Fractures (Broken Bones)
• Stress Fractures
• Gastrocnemius/Calf Strain

• Overview
• Treatments
• Goals
• Resources

Gastrocnemius/Calf Muscle Strain

This injury is commonly the result of quick sprints while running. With a muscle strain, there is localized tenderness or a “bulge” more commonly at the inner region of the back of the leg. The pain is aggravated by walking, descending stairs, or raising the heel of the affected leg off the ground.

Possible Treatments

• Ankle Active Range of Motion 
• Ankle Joint Mobilization 
• Ankle Joint Passive Range of Motion 
• Ankle Progressive Resistive Range of Motion 
• Aerobic/Endurance Exercise 
• Cryotherapy or Cold Therapy 
• Electrotherapeutic Modalities
• Gait or Walking Training 
• Isotonics 
• Ice Massage 
• Proprioception Exercises 
• Stationary Cycling 
• Soft Tissue Mobilization 
• Stretching/Flexibility Exercise 
• Ultrasound 

Possible Treatment Goals

• Improve Balance
• Improve ability to bear weight/stand on the leg(s)
• Decrease Risk of Reoccurrence
• Improve Function
• Improve Muscle Strength and Power
• Improve Proprioception
• Improve Range of Motion
• Improve Tolerance for Prolonged Activities

Additional Resources

• 3d Anatomy of the calf and foot
• Leg Injuries from Medline Plus

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