Massage can help treat and prevent calf muscle strains. Here we explain and demonstrate how to apply sports massage techniques to the calf muscles and lower leg.

Click on the headings below to expand:

Massage contraindications

A contraindication is something that means massage is not safe to perform, or make cause more harm. In particular, when massaging the calf muscle you should be aware of:

Acute muscle strains

Massage should not be applied to recent muscles strains. During the first 24 to 72 hours following a calf strain appying massage will make your injury worse, increase bleeding and prevent healing.

How long the acute stage lasts will depend on how bad your injury is.

Deep vein thrombosis

This is also known as DVT. This is a blood clot in the calf muscle area. Symptoms may be similar to a torn calf muscle, however DVT pain is more likely to be constant.

If in doubt seek medical advice as soon as possible. If you massage a blood clot, it might break loose with potentially fatal consequences. DVT is relatively common, especially if you are overweight, aged 50+ or have poor circulation.

View all massage contraindications

Why is massage important?

Massage for any muscle injury is important, but particularly so for calf muscles. After the acute stage of healing has passed, massage will help stimulate blood flow, mobilise the muscle fibres, and release areas of muscle spasm.

Another major benefit of massage, particularly in the latter stages, is to soften newly formed scar tissue and help align new fibres.

Once you have recovered from injury then you should continue to have regular massage. A skilled massage therapist can identify tight areas of the muscle, which if left may risk causing future injury.

Massage techniques for calf strains

The following is for information purposes. We always recommend seeking professional advice before attempting treatment.

Time needed: 30 minutes.

How to massage calf muscles

Check for contraindications
Always check for contraindications, especially Deep vein thrombosis to ensure it is safe to perform sports massage.
Positioning
Position the patient on a firm base, preferably a massage table. Lie face down with the feet relaxed, either by supporting with a rolled towel, or allow the feet to hang over the end of the massage table.
Light effleurage
Begin with ‘effleurage’ techniques. These are light stroking techniques which begin to warm up the tissues ready for deeper techniques.
Deep effleurage
As above, but gradually working deeper into the tissues. Do not go so deep that the patient tightens up with pain as the benefits will be lost.
Petrissage
These are a variety of kneading type techniques. Work as deep as is comfortable. Over time, as the injury improves massage pressure can be increased. Alternate petrissage techniques with effleurage.
Tapotement
These are optional precussian type techniques. Some therapists may choose to use them, but probably only in the later stages of recovery.
Finishing
Return to light effleurage techniques to complete the massage.