Pain in the calf area can have a variety of causes, from muscle injuries to more serious medical conditions.
Cramps often occur after overexertion, dehydration, or when there is a deficiency of minerals such as potassium, magnesium or calcium. The pain can be sudden and intense, with the muscle contracting and forming a “bulge”.
With high physical stress or sudden movements, the muscles in the calf can be stretched or torn. Typical symptoms are pain, swelling and limited mobility.
This condition is an inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. The pain is usually localized at the bottom of the calf and above the heel and is often aggravated by movement or physical activity.
Overuse or repetitive movements can lead to tendonitis in the calf area, causing pain that worsens with physical activity.
If there is irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the pain can shoot from the base of the spine through the back of the thigh to the calf. Sciatica often manifests as sharp pain, tingling or numbness.
