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Calf Muscle Strain

Calf Muscle Strain

Gastrocnemius muscle injury characterized by tightness, pulling, or sudden tearing pain in the calf

Jang-Hyuk Choi, KMD
의료 감수Jang-Hyuk Choi, KMDHead Doctor
Jang-Hyuk Choi, KMD
Medically Reviewed
동제당한의원·Jang-Hyuk Choi, KMDHead Doctor
#Food / Triggers

Q I am a female office worker in my 30s. Please let me know if there are any foods that help with recovery after a calf muscle injury, or if there are any things I should avoid.

A Protein (chicken breast, tofu, eggs), Omega-3 (fatty fish), and Vitamin C (broccoli, bell peppers) are helpful for muscle recovery. On the other hand, alcohol worsens vascular inflammation and inhibits muscle protein synthesis, so it is best to avoid it for the first 2 to 4 weeks after the injury. Spicy and stimulating foods can also increase heat within the tissues and delay recovery.

Detailed Answer

For recovery after a muscle tear, high-quality protein rich in leucine (1.6–2 g/day per kg of body weight), which is necessary for muscle fiber resynthesis, Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) with anti-inflammatory effects, and Vitamin C, which is essential for collagen synthesis, are important. Studies show that alcohol inhibits the mTOR pathway, reducing muscle protein synthesis by up to 37%, and excessive caffeine within 72 hours of injury can also reduce local blood flow through vasoconstriction. In Korean medicine, a diet that protects digestive function is considered fundamental during the muscle injury recovery phase. This is because digestive and absorption functions determine the speed of recovery. Cold and greasy foods impair digestive function and hinder the generation of Qi and blood. Traditional Korean medicine recommends warm broth containing Astragalus membranaceus and jujubes, as well as foods that form the foundation of muscles and recovery, such as black beans and sesame seeds. At Dongjedang, we optimize the body's internal recovery environment by incorporating constitution-based dietary guidance into the treatment process.

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동제당한의원 Care

Calf Muscle Strain is not just a simple symptom

Korean medicine that considers both your constitution and lifestyle rhythm treats the root cause.

From consultation to precise treatment, we provide personalized care.

Herbal-Centered Treatment

Prescriptions tailored to your constitution and symptoms treat the root cause

1:1 Director Care

The director personally sees you from first to follow-up visits

Precise Diagnosis

We identify the essence through Sasang constitution, pulse and abdominal diagnosis

Clinical Approach

Treatment based on long clinical experience and evidence

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