Please note: Our Online Booking tool is currently down, please contact us on 0330 088 7800 to arrange your appointment and we will honour any online booking discount.

 

  • Book now

we work with

  • Individuals

  • Solicitors

  • Case
    Managers

  • Intermediaries

  • Organisations

  • Health
    Professionals

 

  • Our Clinics

 

  • Contact us

Close Icon

What is gastrocnemius tendinopathy?



The gastrocnemius is the main calf muscle. It is located on the back of the lower leg. Gastrocnemius tendinopathy is inflammation of the gastrocnemius tendon where it originates from the back of the knee joint. Physiotherapy is an excellent treatment for a gastrocnemius tendinopathy.


How does gastrocnemius tendinopathy happen?



Gastrocnemius tendinopathy is caused by overuse of the gastrocnemius tendon. The gastrocnemius tendon transmits forces from the large gastrocnemius muscle to the thigh bone. Repetitive use of the gastrocnemius muscle and, therefore, the gastrocnemius tendon can cause microscopic tears within the tendon. The body commences an inflammatory response to repair the tears. The inflammation within the tendon is tendinopathy.


Therapist performing knee assessmentAbove: Therapist performing knee assessment



What are the symptoms of gastrocnemius tendinopathy?



Gastrocnemius tendinopathy causes a gradual onset of pain behind the knee joint. You may also experience stiffness or tightness in the calf muscle and/or at the back of the knee joint. These initial symptoms are often ignored, as they can disappear quickly with moving the knee or applying heat to the back of it. However, if you continue to exercise, you could damage the tendon further, increasing the intensity and frequency of your pain.

Other symptoms may include:

What should I do if I have gastrocnemius tendinopathy?



If you suspect that you have gastrocnemius tendinopathy, you should arrange a physiotherapy assessment as soon as possible. In the meantime you can reduce the amount of inflammation around your gastrocnemius tendon by icing the back of your knee using a bag of frozen peas or crushed ice wrapped in a damp cloth for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours.


What shouldn’t I do if I have gastrocnemius tendinopathy?



If you suspect that you have gastrocnemius tendinopathy, you should not ignore your problem. Initially, your pain may get better as you exercise; however, it is likely that continuing with exercise will interfere with the healing process and cause further damage. This could delay your recovery.


Progressive knee strengthening exercises supervised by therapistAbove: Progressive knee strengthening exercises supervised by therapist



Could there be any long-term effects from gastrocnemius tendinopathy?



If it is properly diagnosed and treated, gastrocnemius tendinopathy does not produce any long-term effects.


Physiotherapy treatment for gastrocnemius tendinopathy.



Physiotherapy is important in the treatment of gastrocnemius tendinopathy. Initially, your physiotherapist can diagnose your injury and establish its severity. Your physiotherapist will then be able to develop a treatment plan specifically for you. Treatment may involve: To arrange a physiotherapy assessment call Physio.co.uk on 0330 088 7800 or book online.


Call us on: 0330 088 7800
Phone: 0330 088 7800
Call us on: 0330 088 7800
Mobile: 0330 088 7800
Email us on: office@physio.co.uk
Contact us by post: Our addresses
 
Get treated today!

We have immediate appointments available today. Contact us to make an appointment.

Find out more »

We are open...

Our clinics are open:
Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 9am - 4pm

 
Find your nearest clinic

Physio.co.uk have clinics located throughout the North West.

Find out more »

Physiolates - Pilates in Manchester Massage.physio.co.uk - View our services