Question for Runners: Calf cramps/ knots

shaydon80

I have an old ankle injury (shattered the ankle in 2003, had 2 surgeries including plates and pins which have since been removed) but I still haven't regained the flexibilty that I once had in my achilles tendon. For example, I can't touch my knee and my toe to the wall while keeping my heel flat on the ground. Anyway, I tend to favor that ankle despite the fact that it doesn't hurt anymore.
All that to say that when I run I get a knot in my calf and I have a hard time stretching it out because of the lack of flexibility in the ankle. Any suggestions on how to avoid/treat a calf knot that doesn't require a lot of ankle/foot flexibility?
Or even better, any suggestions on how to increase the flexibility in an old injured ankle? lol

TIA!

Wickedmeowmer

compression socks might help?

JenOman

Compression socks would do wonders! And you might try self-myofascial release (foam rolling) it has helped with my calves. Good luck!

brandyk77

another vote for compression socks. I don't have the severity of ankle issues you have but I do have tendonitis there and I do lose some flexibility as I run, especially with hills or speed. I have found the socks do help.

SheehyCFC

bump - been getting calf cramps/knots too

yo_andi

Same exact thing, except I have my pins and plates in still! Compression socks are a lifesaver for me, and orthotic inserts. I worked with a podiatrist on those, so I wouldn't just recommend any arbitrary Dr. Scholl's but that has helped a tremendous amount too.

Number three, and the best advice I ever received was foam rolling, or like Jen called it, self-myofascial release. If you don't have a foam roller, a rolled up yoga mat could work.

Good luck!

BrianSharpe

Are you getting enough potassium? (is it a cramp or just stiffness after exercising?)

My foam roller has become one of my best friends too!

BobbyDaniel

I knotted up really bad in my right calf on the last 8 miles of my marathon and compression socks were recommended to me. Also, what is your pre-run diet like? For me I had a banana and protein bar about 5 hours before I started to run but avoided eating anything else before the race due to nerves (1st time doing 26.2) and I think grabbing one more banana before the start might have helped.

cessnaholly

I am curious too. I broke both my ankles in 2010 and one healed badly.

I have noticed that pushing through the running has made it not cramp up so hard and not stay cramped for so long.

I also put Viks vapor rub on it after I run. I also added a banana to my protein shakes. That seems to help.

shaydon80

Hmm, so more potassium and a foam roller. I've been coveting a foam roller since I started running so this just furthers my cause! Thanks everyone!