Alternative Names & Classifications:
Gastrocnemius Tear (CLINICAL), Torn Calf (CLINICAL)
Description
A gastrocnemius tear, sometimes called "tennis leg," involves the violent overstretching and ripping of the calf muscle fibers. It usually happens during a sudden, explosive push-off movement, such as sprinting, jumping, or lunging for a tennis ball. The injury results in an immediate loss of power in the lower leg and makes pushing off the toes nearly impossible.