Calf Muscle Tightness
The calf muscles include the soleus muscle and the larger, overlying gastrocnemius muscle. These powerful muscles push the ankle downward, helping to propel the body when walking, running, jumping, or climbing stairs.
Open this page on your mobile device.
What is Calf Muscle Tightness?
Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis
Calf muscle tightness restricts the normal movement of the ankle. While too much or too little exercise and shoes like high heels can cause the calf muscles to get tight, more severe cases of calf muscle tightness can result from neurological conditions.
Calf Muscle Tightness: Overview
2m
Calf Muscle Tightness Treatment
With and Without Surgery
Physical therapy, regular stretching, and wearing specific ankle braces, splints, or casts can help decrease calf muscle tightness. When the tightness is severe and significantly impacts the ability to walk, surgery may be considered.
Calf Muscle Tightness: Treatment Options
2m
Calf Muscle Tightness Surgery
Surgical Animation
During surgery for calf muscle tightness, part of the Achilles tendon, which attaches the calf muscles to the heel bone, is cut. This limits pulling on the foot and ankle and can increase ankle range of motion.
Calf Muscle Tightness: Calf Muscle Release Animation
2m