Contents
Why Do Calf Injuries Happen and Who's Most at Risk?
Published: Dec 27, 2023
Calf injuries are common among athletes and active individuals, but understanding why they happen can help prevent them. This article explores the causes and risk factors of calf injuries.
What Causes Calf Injuries?
Calf injuries often occur during sudden movements like sprinting or jumping, especially when the muscles aren't properly warmed up. In sports such as tennis and football, these movements are frequent, making injuries more likely. The gastrocnemius muscle, which helps with jumping and sprinting, is particularly prone to injury.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Middle-aged male athletes, especially those not in peak condition, are at higher risk for calf injuries. Older runners and those with a forefoot strike pattern are also more susceptible. The risk increases with age and previous calf injuries.
Sports and Calf Injuries
Certain sports have a higher incidence of calf injuries. Tennis and football players frequently experience them, with 'tennis leg' being a common term. In Australian football, calf injuries are the second most common muscle injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sudden movements like sprinting or jumping cause many calf injuries.
Poorly conditioned middle-aged male athletes are most at risk.
Yes, sports like tennis and football are more prone.
Yes, older age increases the risk.
Key Takeaways
Understanding the causes and risks of calf injuries can help in preventing them.
References
- Gallo RA, Plakke M, Silvis ML. Common leg injuries of long-distance runners: anatomical and biomechanical approach. Sports Health 2012; 4:485.
- Green B, Pizzari T. Calf muscle strain injuries in sport: a systematic review of risk factors for injury. Br J Sports Med 2017; 51:1189.
- Kwak HS, Lee KB, Han YM. Ruptures of the medial head of the gastrocnemius ('tennis leg'): clinical outcome and compression effect. Clin Imaging 2006; 30:48.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?