$Unique_ID{BRK01589}
$Pretitle{Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue}
$Title{What is "Tennis Leg"?}
$Subject{tennis leg muscle rupture}
$Volume{M-18}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What is "Tennis Leg"?


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QUESTION:  As a regular at our local tennis courts, I am aware of a condition
called "tennis elbow".  But I think I have a new one for you.  One of my
friends is now out of action with a condition called "tennis leg".  Can you
tell me about this condition, which I have never heard of before?

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ANSWER:  It is not all that new, but it certainly will put your friend out of
action for several weeks.  The name "tennis leg" is applied to a rupture of
the calf muscle.  It usually occurs during a strenuous outburst of exercise,
perhaps during a violent rush to return a hard hit ball.  There is a snap in
the lower leg, that can be both heard and felt by the patient.  A sudden
intense pain is felt, and the player usually falls to the ground.  The calf
remains tender, and if the doctor tries to flex the foot upwards during the
examination, the pain is increased.  The sudden and violent contraction of the
muscle as a response to the athletic effort, has actually torn the muscle.
While surgery is usually not necessary, proper treatment is.  The ankle is
strapped firmly in a position that keeps the calf muscles stretched.  The
ankle must be immobilized in this fashion for several weeks, after which
massage may be used to help the recovery.  Exercises are indicated, starting
with just mild movements and gradually increasing activity until full movement
is restored.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
