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Our user asked: "I strained my calf approximately six weeks ago and reading many sites online it falls into the category grade 2. for the last 2 weeks it seems as thought the recovery has stalled. I can walk, do calf raises, bike, swim with no pain and stretch with very minimal pain. I am unemployed wiht no insurance and am leaving for the Army in a month. What is my best plan to get this fully healed in the shortest time? Complete rest? As much exercise and stretcing I can do w/o pain or a combination of the two? I have read many sites regarding the injury but they are not very detailed. Please help."
Ask a PT Response: "For my patients who are suffering from a Type II calf strain I would usually have them avoid activities which increase symptoms and don't recommend complete rest. I have them initially utilizing the stationary bike and progress as tolerated to treadmill walking, to elliptical to jogging/running on treadmill, to jogging/running on track to running on inclines on treadmill. I would continue to have them perform their stretches and other exercises including strengthening. From what you describe it sounds like you are doing the appropriate things. One more thing that works well with my patients who have this injury is myofascial release. There are many resources online that show how to perform this at home. My patients that belong to a gym utilize a foam roller to accomplish this ie. http://www.in.com/videos/watchvideo-calves-sfmr-self-myofascial-release-for-gastrocnemius-muscle-2238655.html - http://www.in.com/videos/watchvideo-calves-sfmr-self-myofascial-release-for-gastrocnemius-muscle-2238655.html Best of luck with your recovery and thank you for serving our country."
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