Calf Muscle Strain

The recovery stages for a Grade II gastrocnemius tear are the inflammatory phase (0–3 days) → proliferative phase (4–21 days) → remodeling phase (3 weeks to 3 months). The criteria for returning to competition are: ① pain-free single-leg raise, ② calf circumference and muscle strength at least 80% of the unaffected side, and ③ passing an isokinetic muscle strength test. Adherence to the initial POLICE (Protection, Optimal Loading, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocol and the early introduction of eccentric exercises have been proven effective in shortening the recovery period. Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective The three stages of recovery in Korean medicine align well with those of Western medicine. During the inflammatory phase, acupuncture and pharmacopuncture are used to rapidly resolve blood stasis, reducing swelling and pain. During the proliferative phase, needle acupuncture and thread embedding aid in the formation of new muscle fibers. In the remodeling phase, constitution-tailored herbal medicine that strengthens liver and spleen functions restores muscle elasticity and resilience. Dongjedang supports athletes' early return by periodically monitoring muscle recovery status with ultrasound and applying treatments appropriate for each stage.