What injury may I have if the middle of my calf (in the front and side) hurts when I run and I sometimes walk?

Question

I've been a Cross Country runner for 5 years and I guess I have been training hard because I want to have a better year. I've been feeling a pain for like a week in my calf (front and side). First it started off small and insignificant and I used to just wrap it. After a week of running on it and icing it it got worse. Yesterday I tried going for a run and stopped after 2 minutes. Please tell me what you think and how can I help it. Thank you!

Answer 1

it could be your achilles tendon. im not an expert but i think i had the same thing last year. if it is your achilles tendon it could come back for years if you dont get it properly looked at.

Answer 2

Hopefully it's not a stress fracture. I'd get that checked quick.

Answer 3

Sounds like it could be shin splints.  Shin splints are the result of muscle imbalance where the back of the leg is stronger than the front muscles.  To correct this imbalance, lie face down in bed with your toes hanging over the edge.  Slowly pull your toes upward against the resistance of the mattress.  Hold for 1 or 2 seconds, then repeat.  Try to work up to 2 or 3 sets of 10.   An alternative or supplement to this is the standing toe raise. Just balance yourself, then raise one toe off the ground standing just on your heel. Then repeat with the other foot.  

Good Luck