Navigating the complexity of calf injuries in athletes: a review of MRI findings. (June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sergot, Leon; Leaper, Oliver; Rolls, Andrew; Williams, Jonathan; Chakraverty, Robin; Chakraverty, Julian
• Is Part Of: Acta radiologica. Volume 63:Number 6(2022)
• Page Start: 767
• Page End: 774
• Publication Date: 2022-06
• Subjects: Athlete -- calf -- injury -- magnetic resonance imaging -- return to play; Radiology, Medical -- Periodicals; Radiography, Medical -- Periodicals; Radiotherapy -- Periodicals; 616.0757
• DOI: 10.1177/02841851211016452
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0284-1851

Abstract

The calf muscle group is a common area for injury within the professional athlete population. Anatomical and biomechanical differences between the different component muscles vary their individual predispositions to and patterns of injury. However, there is a common unifying factor: injuries involving tendinous components have greater clinical implications with regards to rehabilitation, potential intervention, length of time to return to play, and re-injury rates. As such, accurate understanding of the underlying anatomy and subsequent interpretation of the injury patterns carry significant clinical ramifications. Ultrasound is a useful tool but has limitations, particularly when assessing soleus. As such, magnetic resonance imaging remains the workhorse in calf injury investigation.