Beginner Triathlete - Lower Leg Injuries - Calf & Soleus articles

Painful calf tightness causes worry before a triathlon

After two stress fractures, does new pain mean bad news?

As I was pulling my wetsuit off while standing in the water, my left calf cramped such that my foot was pointed, the muscle was rock hard, and I could not pull my foot out of point for 30 seconds.

On the first rep I tore my soleus muscle. Am I ok to swim? How long should I avoid running? Will using an elliptical trainer be ok?

Tightness in the calves is a common complaint amongst triathletes and runners. There are many potential causes of this problem and this article will address some treatment options.

Varicose veins plague an estimated 20% of our population and those who are fit and active are unfortunately not immune. These tortuous veins are early manifestations of chronic venous disease.

Member Case Study: Calf hurts only after cycling workout

When I was only a runner, I didn't have this issue. But now, going into my third year as a triathlete, my calves and occasionally my Achilles are tight and painful throughout most of my mileage.

Calf injuries can occur from a sudden overload or from repetitive microtrauma. If not treated appropriately and promptly, an acute injury can lead to chronic pain.

I started my journey this month to lose weight with a goal of 100 pounds and completing three sprint triathlons. My beginning weight was 321 and it is now down to 307.

I have a pain deep in my calf about five inches below the knee. A sports doctor did not feel anything wrong in the muscle, and there was no bruising. The tender spot can still be felt on massage.

Everytime I up my run mileage I get injured. As I train I seem to inevitably get pulled calves, IT band syndrome then achilles issues. What can I do?

Calf pain can have multiple causes. In your case, the most likely cause seems to be from a calf muscle strain. If you have had Achilles problems you can be predisposed to a calf injury.

I am training for my first IM and lately I have been getting cramps in my calves. I am a heavy salt sweater and I was wondering if that has anything to do with it?

At about the 1/2 mile mark my left soleus becomes extremely tight and painful. The pain then progresses into my left arch and then into my left knee.