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Gastrocnemius Tear

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

  • See Also
  1. Achilles Tendon Rupture
  2. Achilles Tendonitis
  3. Plantaris Tendon Rupture
  • Epidemiology
  1. Occurs more commonly in athletes over 30 years old
  • Predisposing factors
  1. Commonly seen in Tennis (Tennis Leg)
  2. Running on hill
  3. Forced push-off (jumping)
  • Pathophysiology
  1. Proximal partial gastrocnemius-soleus Muscle tear
    1. Affects medial head of Gastrocnemius
    2. Localized to musculotendinous junction
  • Signs
  1. Tenderness and swelling at medial gastrocnemius
  2. Negative Thompson's Test
  • Differential Diagnosis
  1. Heel Pain
  2. Achilles Tendonitis
  3. Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Management
  1. Heel lift (1/2 inch)
  2. Calf sleeve
  3. Isometric calf contractions in plantar flexion
  4. Gentle calf Stretching
  • Course
  1. Anticipate 3-6 weeks for recovery
  • References
  1. Lecture: Kimmel (1997) AAFP Sports Medicine Review