Rapidly fatiguing calves=cramping, very limitting

Highlander11

Highlander11

Barefooters
Mar 16, 2016
20
20
3
47
Don, NW Tasmania
#1
Physio reckons it seems to be high number of fast twitch fibres fatiguing rapidly causing a cramping sensation. It used to only happen on my right but now on my left too. I have had dry needling done, and advised stretches and strengthening exercises from physio. I was experiencing this issue on my right calf a couple of years ago during marathon prep, now after a long departure from running and thoroughly enjoying barefoot technique, my left has presented with symptoms. Final physio needling session tomorrow.
I'd appreciate any further advice from the barefoot running community.
 
#2
Physio has given me the all clear today, improved dorsi-flexion on right calf well within normal range. Checked hamstring length and ITB, all good. Seemingly no biomechanic issues behind my 'injury'. He has recommended increasing my distance 20% weekly to see where it takes me. If my 'symptoms' come back, I'll know where to cap my running, starting to acknowledge limitations (I hate that!)
 
#3
Please have a seat. One of the docs will be with you shortly. :nurse: ;)
 
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#4
In my experience, cramping in the calves is usually a problem with deep calf and gluteal involvement. It is not so simple. Can you stand on one leg for 30 seconds without dipping or falling over. If not, you are having a core problem. If the IT band on one side or the other is tight, that usually is a dysfunction in the gluts, behind the knee, and even tightness of the plantar fascia can mess with the firing pattern in the leg and the ability to properly absorb shock on foot plant.

Usually, core issues will cause this. Have you ever put yourself on a treadmill and had a phone video done. It can be quite compelling.

Another thing to consider is upper body strength. Just as the lower body can distort your core, the upper body will also do this too.

My book, Cheating Mother Nature, what you need to know to beat chronic pain which is available on Amazon may be a good read for you, since it will explain how much of this is connected and why it affects you, and the gait cycle.

Hope that helps

Dr C
 
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