The calf muscles – gastrocnemius and soleus – plantar flex the foot and help someone tiptoe. They also help stabilise people in static stance, but are notorious for tightening up in those who spend long periods standing, many who exercise and strengthen but do not stretch, as well as many with pes cavus and others with Charcot Marie Tooth disease and other neurological conditions.
In the extreme, those with very tight calf muscles walk on their tip toes, or more commonly, walk with a characteristic ‘bounce’ in their walk. Some accommodate this tightness without any symptoms, in which case, intervention is not indicated. Once there is any pain or discomfort, treatment options need to be considered.
Tight calf muscles are often associated with plantar fasciitis (due to compensatory excess pronation), Achilles tendonitis (just due to the chronic pull on the Achilles tendon), posterior knee pain (due to tension at the origin of the gastroc-soleus complex), metatarsalgia and other forefoot pain (due to increased pressure form the added plantar flexion).
Calf stretching exercises are often helpful, but a full and thorough biomechanical exam will reveal any other factors that may be impacting the patient’s condition.
For the benefit of your patients’ comfort, consider a referral to chiropody. We are right here in the building! Your referrals are greatly appreciated.