This describes a tearing — either microscopic, partial or complete — of the muscles and/or tendons of the calf. These include the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles as well as the lesser muscles that control the ankle and toes. Strains, like most sports injuries, usually result either from one traumatic event or more gradually as a overuse injury. The term “calf strain” is general, but a more specific term naming the precise muscle or tendons involved is preferable.  Like all strains, calf strains, once more precisely diagnosed, can often be treated successfully with rest, anti-inflammatory medications, ice, friction massage by a physical therapist trained in this technique, and therapeutic exercises when appropriate, but not too soon. Sometimes injections are required. The diagnosis cannot be confirmed by X-ray evaluation, but ultrasound diagnostic imaging can clearly demonstrate the lesion in most cases.