please help calf problem

[born2run]

I'm a novice runner and suddenly developed this issue after almost a solid year of running 10 miles a week. Didn't increase mileage, gain/lose weight, or change the way I run. My shoes are properly fitted. I have been unable to figure out what is going on with my calf. It hurts, and I mean hurts badly on the inside of the leg. (as opposed to the back or outside of the calf) I assume it's a calf muscle but the location is odd. More than just a tight muscle, it hurts to the touch. No reddness or swelling. It's been going on for about 4 months now. I'll rest it 6 weeks and run again maybe half my normal distance. It feel fine the first time, several days later, when I try again, it's back-as bad as ever.

Anybody have this? Any advise? I don't even know who to see. A podiatrist? ortho doc? sports medicine clinic?

Any help out there?

Thanks,

[Heidi]

I would go see a sports injury specialist on this one. Could be a number of things. Compartment syndrome, muscle tear, shin splints?
Dependant on the exact location, type of pain etc.
You may well find that a couple of good sports massages will sort it out?

You say your shoes are properly fitted but have you have a foot assessment to check your foot posture? This will almost definately help if you then find you have a problem which needs correcting.

Any of the specialists you mentioned should be able to help....start at a sports therapist/physio and if they need to refer you to a podiatrist for foot position correction they will.

Hope this helps

Heidi