Gastrocnemius Tear

Aka: Gastrocnemius Tear, Partial Gastrocnemius Disruption, Medial Gastrocnemius Rupture, Tennis Leg

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II. Epidemiology

  1. Occurs more commonly in athletes over 30 years old

III. Predisposing factors

  1. Commonly seen in Tennis (Tennis Leg)
  2. Running on hill
  3. Forced push-off (jumping)

IV. Pathophysiology

  1. Proximal partial gastrocnemius-soleus Muscle tear
    1. Affects medial head of Gastrocnemius
    2. Localized to musculotendinous junction

V. Signs

  1. Tenderness and swelling at medial gastrocnemius
  2. Negative Thompson's Test

VI. Differential Diagnosis

  1. Heel Pain
  2. Achilles Tendonitis
  3. Achilles Tendon Rupture

VII. Management

  1. Heel lift (1/2 inch)
  2. Calf sleeve
  3. Isometric calf contractions in plantar flexion
  4. Gentle calf Stretching

VIII. Course

  1. Anticipate 3-6 weeks for recovery

IX. References

  1. Lecture: Kimmel (1997) AAFP Sports Medicine Review

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