When it comes to completing a stretching program, our Oakville Chiropractors say some muscles can be easily forgotten.  Stretches for muscles of the neck, lower back, quads and hamstrings are well known and often included in pre and post workout programs.  But what about the calves?  These muscles help us walk, stand, run and jump, so they should be given a little TLC as well!

What are the Calf Muscles

There are two main muscles that make up the muscle group collectively known as the ‘calf muscles’.  The gastrocnemius is the main bulk of the muscle that you can easily grab with you hand at the back of your lower leg.  This muscle attaches just above the knee and inserts into the heel.  The fact that the muscle crosses two joints means it can contribute to two motions, flexing the knee and pointing the toes.  Your soleus lays underneath the gastrocnemius.  The soleus is a one joint muscle, and contributes to pointing the toes.  The soleus is the workhorse when it comes to maintaining a standing posture. Learn more about the anatomy of the calf.

The calf muscles can be responsible for pains in the knees and the feet.  Conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints or even knee pain can be due to tight calf muscles!  Having tight calves will alter walking mechanics, and can even start to cause problems in the hips and lower back if left untreated.  Simple daily lifestyle factors like wearing high heels or sitting all day (and therefore leaving the calves static) can lead to tightness and discomfort. 

Doctor Approved Calf Stretches

Our Oakville Chiropractor has put together a list of different variations of calf stretching to try.  These stretches can all be modified to stretch both the gastrocnemius and soleus.  Any of these stretches completed with a straight knee will stretch the gastrocnemius.  If you want to stretch the soleus, simple add a slight bend to the knee to target the deeper muscle!  If you have any questions, ask Dr. Steve or Dr. Jenn for advice on how to get the best stretch! 

What is Sinus Tarsi Syndrome?

The sinus tarsi is a tunnel between two of your ankle bones.  This tunnel can become injured from an inversion ankle sprain, especially if the sprain was severe!  People who sprain their ankles often, or do a lot of standing/walking are more at risk for developing this condition.  Individuals who are over-pronators or have flat feet can also put extra strain on this tunnel and cause irritation.

READ MORE about acupuncture and ankles

Acupuncture Oakville: Symptoms of Sinus Tarsi Syndrome

The biggest indicator of this sinus tarsi syndrome is pain on the outside of the ankle, right in front of the lateral malleolus (the bump on the outside of your ankle).  Pain is most noticeable when weight-bearing.  The pain in this area may be accompanied by a feeling of instability in the ankle, swelling on the outside of the ankle or difficulty walking on unstable/uneven surfaces. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms please start icing your ankle after prolonged physical activity or standing.

Read More about Sinus Tarsi and Acupuncture

Acupuncture for Sinus Tarsi Syndrome Oakville

The sinus tarsi is a deep structure of the ankle.  Our acupuncturist says it’s not directly accessible to the hands of a practitioner.  This is where acupuncture can be so valuable!  There is an acupuncture point that can be inserted right into the ankle joint and affect the deep ligaments of the ankle.

More treatment options for sinus tarsi syndrome in Oakville

Inserting a needle into the joint can help flush out the inflammation and decrease the persistent swelling that is often present in individuals with this condition.  The needling techniques also help to draw blood flow to the injured area and promotes healing.  This is particularly helpful for individuals who chronically injure their ankles.  The healing response dampens over time, so inserting a needle into this area can make sure the body doesn’t forget about the injury and keeps trying to heal it!

Treating the surrounding muscles is also beneficial when dealing with sinus tarsi syndrome.  The muscles on the outside of the lower leg can become strained after an ankle sprain.  Painless acupuncture points in the outside of the leg can help stimulate these muscles and speed up the healing process.  Additionally, treating the calf muscles with acupuncture helps to stimulate the same nerves that innervate the ankle joint, and this can help to decrease pain and recovery time! If you are suffering from knee pain due to compensation from your ankle injury try acupuncture! Most of our sinus tarsi patients have had chronic ankle sprains and were improper footwear. Oakville orthotics at our clinic can help with ankle biomechanics and choosing a shoe that is supportive will improve overall foot pronation.

Learn more about acupuncture in Oakville for ankle sprains and sinus tarsi

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