Calf strains are one of the most common and preventable injuries in GAA athletes. A calf strain involves a pull or tear to one or more of the muscles at the back of the lower leg. These muscles are responsible the movement at the ankle which involves pointing your toes away from the body and play an important role in your walking and running patterns. A calf strain will therefore make it difficult to walk or play pain free when injured.

The Rehab of a calf strain will depend on the severity of the injury. The severity of the strain can be divided into grade one, two or three.  A grade 3 strain is the most severe and can take up to 12 weeks to recover from.

Initial treatment consists of ice and rest for the first day or two but the player should be up jogging and doing bike sessions within the first 3-5 days. Strengthening will be key before returning to the biggest challenge… Sprinting

Here is a sample a few of the Mobility/Strengthening Exercises incorporated into rehab sessions.

Let us know how you get on.

Joey Boland