Painful calves

[GoatG]

My calves tighten up after walking for 10 minutes. Rock hard. If I stop and stretch they loosen up. Is this a circulation issue?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

I know a lifelong runner who, as he approached 70, suddenly found that he had excruciating calf tightness, meaning he could not run at all.

Several physio visits later he could not get to the bottom of the issue. He then tried wearing compression socks for his runs and for a couple of hours afterwards. In no time he was back out knocking off 25 minute 5ks.

Compression socks work by stimulating blood flow, I believe, so maybe circulation is the basis of your issue. Whether those who have run a lot are more susceptible or whether it is an age related problem, I don't know, but it might be worth trying compression socks.

Do read the guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5... it is full of tips.

[GoatG in reply to IannodaTruffe]

That’s very interesting. I’m a retired marathon runner. The tight calves also caused my running gaite to change due to inflexible ankle. Im going to try this. Thank you!

[GoatG in reply to IannodaTruffe]

I also have very big calves and strong shin muscles.