14/12/2021
To some, the posterior lower leg, or Calf Region, may be viewed as one muscle. But there are actually 3 muscles in this region which all come together to form our “Achilles Tendon”
1️⃣ Gastrocnemius (top layer)
2️⃣ Soleus (middle layer)
3️⃣ Plantaris (deep layer)
All 3 of these muscle act on the ankle, causing plantar flexion (aka extension at the ankle). One major difference between them is that the origin of gastrocnemius is on the tibia, therefore crossing the knee joint. Since it crosses the knee joint this muscle produced a stronger plantar flexion contraction when the knee is in an extended position. Soleus acts independent of knee position and therefore is often seen strengthened from a seated of bent knee position.
••
Causes of Hamstring Strains:
1️⃣ Muscle Tightness
2️⃣ Muscle Imbalance
3️⃣ Overuse
4️⃣ Sudden burst or push off of the foot (ie tennis, sprinting)
••
Some common signs of a calf strain include:
1️⃣ Muscle cramping
2️⃣ Sharp or dull pain in the muscle belly
3️⃣ Tenderness and/or bruising
4️⃣ Throbbing pain when at rest
5️⃣ A snapping or popping sound at the time of injury
