Dear Docs,
For about three weeks now I have had what feels like a sprain or tenderness in the calf of my left leg. It is above the Achilles Tendon, right about where it runs into the calf muscle on the inside of my calf. When I stretch, regardles of the technique, it seems I cannot affect this area, i.e., stretch it out! It's a little sensitive when I begin my runs, then lessens during, and comes back afterwards. I have been icing the area in the evenings but not getting much relief as yet. It does not seem to be getting any worse, but not getting better, either. Am I doing more damage by not stopping my running for a time? I REALLY don't want to lose any momentum right before the Helvetia Half Mary! :
Stephanie

Stephanie,
Achilles injuries can be very serious. However, from the description I am not sure if that is the culprit. The origin of the primary big toe flexor (flexor hallicus longus) is just medial to the Achilles tendon at about the distal third of the tibia. This could mean that your big toe flexor is being overworked. Try stretching your calves, foot and big toe all at the same time: use a towel around your big toe and stretch it as well as your calves from the standard seated hamstring stretch position (sitting with legs together and straight). Also try squatting down so the feet are flat on the ground and your butt is resting on your heels (knees and hips are bent) then roll your weight onto the balls of your feet and onto your big toe. This should stretch out your toe extensors. If you are really serious about loosening up that tissue, schedule an hour sports massage with one of the massage therapists.

How serious do you think this injury is? Scale from 0-10 how painful is it? Is your gait affected (limping)?
It is not getting worse, right?

If the pain is not that bad, and you stretch, ice and massage, you should be able to complete the half marathon. I would advise having somebody take a peek at it and make sure it is not too serious. Stop by Vancouver this weekend if you can.
Cheers,
Dr. Jake

Dr. Jake,

Thanks for your reply. No, it is not getting worse. On a scale of 0-10, I'd call it a 4-5 when I start out, then about 2 miles into my run, it has subsided almost competely. Upon cool down, (20 minutes plus later) it comes back again, but no worse than before.

I will take your advise. I will ice more frequently between now and next Saturday. I'm not sure I'll make it to Vancouver tomorrow as I went out on an 8+ solo today around Lake Oswego! What a beautiful run it was - hilly, wooded, just wonderful. Thanks again.
Stephanie