There are 2 main muscles in the calf group
Gastrocnemius
Soleus
What movement do they do?
Your calves point your toe (plantar flexion) and bend the knee.
What problems can occur if they are too tight?
When your calf muscles are restricted, your ankle and foot will struggle to make the way they are designed to. Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, ankle bursitis are just a few common conditions which tight calf muscles play a role in.
When your calf muscles can’t get any tighter your achilles may snap- not pleasant.
Where on the body can tight calf muscles cause pain?
Restricted calf muscles can cause pain in your feet, ankles, calves, hamstrings and lower back.
As the nerves that control your calves come from your lower back, if there is an issue the pain signal can refer back to the lower back. I’ve seen it many times where releasing the calf muscles has eliminated back pain.
How do I know if my calf muscles are too tight?
Wherever you are right now, straighten your leg and pull your toes towards your shin. Do you feel a tight pull in the calf? How about when you lift your leg up, either while lying on the floor or standing, does your calf let you know it’s there?
How do I make my calf muscles flexible?
The most effective and quickest way is with assisted PNF stretching. Within 30 minutes you are guaranteed to have your ankle moving with freedom. PNF stretching of the calf also releases the muscles of the feet. This is why we have great success with people who suffer with plantar fasciitis. It’s also great for runner and walkers who loves ponding the pavement.
If you would like to have your feet and ankles feeling free and loose book an appointment here.
Otherwise, heads to the movement library and try this movement to help improve.
