Calf strain

A calf strain is a tear of the muscles at the back of the lower leg, often felt as a sudden pain or pop during running, jumping, or a quick push-off. It can range from a minor niggle to a more significant injury, and rushing back too soon is a common cause of setbacks.

Physiotherapy guides recovery through early protection and progressive loading, rebuilding the strength and spring you need for sport. In this guide we cover grading and evidence-based phased rehabilitation for gastrocnemius and soleus strains — practical guidance for clinicians and clear, stage-by-stage advice so patients and athletes return to running safely.