Running is a necessity of our life, not only it’s a great way to lose weight and become fit. People have a ubiquitous question that “why do my calves hurt when I run?”Well, the answer can vary from person to person. Calf pain can be experienced by almost anyone who has a tendency to run regularly.
The perks of running are immense. You can achieve some benefits from running are strong bones, getting fit, strengthening muscles, and weight loss. Now some people definitely have this “why do my calves hurt when I run?” question, so let’s find out some possible reasons.
1. Why do my calves hurt when I run: causes.
Some of the most common reasons for your sore calves can have many underlying reasons. The calf pain usually starts when you start the run, and it gradually increases as you continue. Even people doing power walks can feel this thing. The possible reasons are:
1.1 Weak calf muscles
This reason is mainly applicable to people who are just beginners in running and exercising. Overdoing leg exercises or running for a long time can cause calf pain at first.
No one’s calf is strong and tight at the beginning. Everyone usually has a soft and weak calf muscle. It can be very much problem when you first start running or jogging, because of the weak calf. The calf muscles can’t bear the strain that occurs at first.
1.2 Calf overloading
Calf overloading is a phenomenon when people are not accustomed to running. When they do a heavy running session or uphill walk, the Achilles tendon and calf muscles get strained, which can cause calf pain. Other reasons for calf overloading can be running barefoot. Landing on the front foot can trigger the muscles of the calf badly and can even cause strains.
Calf overloading can also be a normal thing for people who goes to marathons and have to run for a long time.
1.3 Muscle cramps
Why do my muscles hurt when I run may have a simpler answer. A muscle cramp is a normal thing that happens when muscles contract, which can last for some minutes. This mainly occurs after over-exercising, which can be experienced frequently during muscle and weight training.
Even dehydration can cause muscle cramps.
1.4 Sciatica
The sciatic nerve is a nerve that runs from our hips to each of our legs. Usually, when there is a problem with the sciatic nerve, people get a tingling sensation in the lower back area and sometimes Also feel a burning sensation. The accidental strain on the sciatic nerve can also cause calf pain.
2. Treatments for calf pain
Well, calf pain is normally a short-term problem, but you can try some methods to get rid of the pain. The reason for the pain can easily determine what treatment is for you. Here are some common treatments for calf pain after or while running:
2.1 Rest
You don’t have to rush and try to finish the run; when you feel your calf pain, simply take a rest. Try brisk walking or try gentle stretching, which can ease the cramps. Resting for some minutes and stretching after a long run is a smart decision.
2.2 Ice
Applying ice is another best way to deal with a calf injury. After resting, apply ice for 15-20 minutes, easing the pain and giving relief to the affected area. Don’t directly put the ice pack on the skin. Wrap it in a towel, and then apply it.
2.3 Stretching
Stretching always tends to improve calf pain problems. Most people getting tight calf should refer to this. Some common stretching is:
A. Calf raises
This is a common calf stretching exercise, which can help treat calf pain. The calf raises steps are:
- Stand up straight
- Push the balls of your feet, and then raise the heel.
- Try this until you are standing on your toes
- Then lower the heels and repeat.
B. Massage
Massaging your calf with a foam ball or tennis ball can give immense relief to the tight calves. Else you can also try professional deep tissue massage if your calf pain doesn’t go even after trying with a ball. This helps good blood flow and softens the muscles that caused the strain.
2.4 Hydrate yourself
Many people who have dehydration problems often have this “why do my calves hurt when I run” question. For dehydrated people, this is the key factor in stopping the calf tightening. Usually, those who have a habit of running sweat a lot and get dehydrated easily. They tend to lose minerals, water, and salt through sweat.
2.5 Physical therapy
Physical therapy is also a recommended way to get relief from calf pain. Physical therapists themselves conduct different customized exercises and stretches that help them. Runners usually prefer physical therapy to get rid of muscle stiffness and pain problems.
3. Prevention
Causes and treatments of the most problematic question” why do my calves hurt when I run” are discussed above, but what about avoiding calf cramps? Let’s talk about how to prevent calf pain. Some of the methods to avoid the pain are:
31. More stretching
Before exercising, warming up and stretching is an important part which you should never avoid. People who usually have this “why do my calves hurt when I run” should give more time to stretching for like 15-20 minutes. This will automatically make your calf and body muscles lose and make you more comfortable while running.
3.2 Don’t proceed if you are not comfortable
People think that if they stop or rest for a while, then it can hamper their daily running session. Usually, beginners with the “why do my calves hurt when I run” question tend to think like that, and that’s why they go through frequent calf pain while running. For those kinds of people, try thinking differently. People who rest while running for a while to drink water or stretch tend to have low calf pains and leg problems.
Though all these things are always to be kept in mind, always try to consult a physical therapist for sports massage. Never rush for anything new, try taking things slow, and run regularly to keep yourself fit and healthy.
