W6R2 - second attempt and a calf strain πŸ™ - Couch to 5K

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W6R2 - second attempt and a calf strain πŸ™

Catherinel14secondtimearound profile image

Really gutted to get a calf strain - was doing really well. Did the first 10 minutes and everything was fine ; then started the second 10 and suddenly felt a pain in my lower left calf. I slowed but continued and managed to complete the run. Then went to a body pump class - the trainer recommended a roller and showed me what to do so I have rollered the painful area. I hope I am ok tomorrow and can still complete run 3 on weds.

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Catherinel14secondtimearound profile image
Catherinel14secondtimearound
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10 Replies
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Sorry but I think your trainer gave you terrible advice.

You can't roll out a strain. A strain happens when muscle fibres tear. Inflammation quickly happens as the body goes into repair mode. Rolling it out is just going to push the torn fibres further apart, and rupture more blood vessels as you apply brute force to the injured area.

Unless it isn't a strain at all, but a nasty spasm like some people get in their calves where they kind of lock up. That can be quite painful and feel like a strain but is actually something different entirely. That's something else the foam roller won't fix.

Catherinel14secondtimearound profile image
Catherinel14secondtimearound in reply to

Thanks I only used the roller for a few seconds - this morning it feels stiff so ill rest it today and see how I get on.

CraftyLeslie profile image
CraftyLeslie

Sorry to hear that 😳 Wishing you a speedy recovery 😊

Thanks I'm hoping it's just a little blip and it's ok tomorrow. I'm resting it today.

Sounds like a plan xx

nikkiwabit profile image
nikkiwabitGraduate

Rest but keep your ankle mobile (v. gently) so that doesn't stiffen too. Make sure you can walk without pain before running.

and my usual word of warning - if it is anywhere near your Achilles - get it checked!

Maddee_6333 profile image
Maddee_6333Graduate

Make sure it's fully better before you try running on it again, won't you?

Definitely even though I'm now behind in the programme- if there's the slightest niggle I will not run πŸƒ

Sarahb18 profile image
Sarahb18Graduate

Oh sorry to hear that !

Doesn't matter how many weeks it takes , we all get there in our own time.

Wishing you a speedy recovery 😘

Aw thanks Sarah - we are away in Whitstable and my plan was to run yesterday- instead I walked and the muscle seems ok - just a slight niggle. Today we move on to Epping Forest and Connaught Water. I will walk / run depending on how it feels πŸƒπŸΌβ€β™€οΈπŸ˜Š

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