Lower Leg, Ankle & Foot Injuries/Conditions

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my right calf muscle

Printed From: CyberPT - Your Online Physical Therapy Resource
Category: Patient Forum
Forum Name: Lower Leg, Ankle & Foot Injuries/Conditions
Forum Description: Patients can post questions and experiences about lower leg, ankle & foot injuries/conditions.
URL: http://www.cyberpt.com/ptforum/forum_posts.asp?TID=678
Printed Date: Apr 28 2024 at 12:40pm
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Topic: my right calf muscle

Posted By: Ask a PT
Subject: my right calf muscle
Date Posted: Jun 27 2010 at 12:33pm

Our user asked: "So I have a problem with my right leg that is pretty scary. my right calf muscle is not developed at all anymore as a result of not doing the pt after my first back surgery about ten years ago. I can not even lift myself up on my tiptoes on my right leg. It is really scary and I need to develop it. I was wondering if you have any exercises that I could do at home. I would just do calf raises but like I said I can not even lift myself up on that leg. The real bad part is the inside of my calf. There is almost no muscle anymore. I really look forward to your help."

Ask a PT Response: "I am suspecting you have tibial nerve involvement where L5-S1 and S1-S2 have been affected and has resulted in your current situation. For my patients that may be experiencing a condition similiar to yours I would have them start off with lower level exericses to build up strength for the gastroc including, ankle pumps, seated heel raises, isometric strengthening, resisted strengthening (see attachment), pushing off while sitting in a chair with wheels, or utilizing various machines such as leg press or Freemotion with light weights to work the gastroc muscle. As the patient becomes stronger they can be progressed to more advanced strengthening exercises."