Bloomin calf...

[GetToTheChopper]

Morning all - just after a bit of advice and cheering up.. not run since the 4th April, when after running 7k and going into work (up an escalator with 2 heavy bags and a back pack) I experienced a sever pain in my right leg... so bad that I actually passed out and collapsed on the floor - had to wait 10 mins for anyone to arrive at work and they promptly took me to hospital. The hospital said that I had torn my calf muscle (level 2) and called it a gastrocnemius muscle tear. Again, never felt pain like it and not had any injury like this in over 15 years. I was housebound for one week and then spent 3 weeks on two crutches and then another 2 on 1 crutch. Over the past 4 weeks I have been having weekly physio as well as ultrasound treatment - last week it actually started to feel more normal but still have another 4 weeks to go they reckon before I can start jogging. Do daily exercises at least four times (walking on heels, toes and lots of stretching) but still find any exercise tricky (apart from swimming and started to work out on a punch bag I bought). Starting to get fed up as miss my running and the freedom it brings + get a little down at the thought of another month. Meant to be doing the London Marathon next year as well as some half's, but not sure if I will be ready (last time I did a marathon I prepared for 18 months and was all worth it) and afraid that I'm going nearly back to the beginning - any thoughts/advice from anyone who has had (or knows of anyone) who's been in the same doubtful boat?? My physio says that I will be fine, but just a little down at the moment...

[Realfoodieclub Graduate]

Oh I feel your pain, I'm waiting for the ok to start again as well, after nearly four months off. I must admit I'm now chomping on the bit and eager but I have promised myself I will,listen to the professionals. Sounds like a very painful injury you have had. I really hope you get out there again soon. Take care Rfc x.

[Sandraj39 Graduate]

I have walked in your shoes!! (and it hurts!) Felt like I had been shot in the back of my leg when mine went, playing in the playground with kids at work. I was diagnosed with a Grade 2 calf tear (at week 8 of the programme) over two years ago. Didn't need crutches but lots of pain in first few days and limping/ hobbling around for a good few weeks. I was out of running for about three months and then a couple of false starts back before building back up. Haven't had any problems since (although my muscle mass is still slightly down on that leg) ran my first half marathon in March this year. My guess is, that as you are already quite an experienced runner, you will build your fitness back up quite quickly. I guess it's just a case of allowing your muscle fibres time to repair and strengthen before upping your distance too soon. Do you have a deferred place in the VLM for next year or are you in the ballot? Good luck with your recovery - just take it easy and listen to your body.🙂