Gastrocnemius Recession

GASTROCNEMIUS RECESSION

The gastrocnemius (gastroc) and the soleus are two muscles that make up the calf. The gastroc is the larger and more superficial of the two muscles. The soleus is a deeper muscle within the lower leg. The gastroc tendon combines with the soleus tendon to form the Achilles tendon.

Tightness in the calf can limit how far the ankle can flex up. This may make it difficult to walk with the heel on the floor. Over time, calf tightness may contribute to many foot problems, including heel pain, Achilles tendon pain, flatfoot deformity, toe pain, and bunions.

A gastrocnemius release lengthens the gastrocnemius tendon. This is done to increase the flexibility of the calf muscle, which can decrease pressure at the front of the foot, improve function, and decrease deformity.

SURGERY
Your surgeon may perform this surgery through several different incisions. Most commonly, a small incision is made on the inner side of the lower leg. Sometimes an incision directly in the back of the calf is used, or even an endoscopic incision, which is about ½ inch. Once the gastroc tendon is identified, it is separated from the underlying muscle belly of the soleus, then cut straight across. Once the tendon is released, the ankle is flexed up and an increased range of motion is noted intraoperatively. 

COMPLICATIONS
After a gastroc release, some patients experience nerve injury that results in irritation or numbness over the outside of the heel. This usually is temporary. In addition, some patients may notice a difference in the appearance of one calf compared to the other and temporary calf weakness.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
  • Why are my calf muscles tight?

    Most frequently a tight calf muscle is an inherited problem that only causes problems later in life. Other reasons for calf tightness are nerve injuries, muscle problems, and other medical problems like stroke and diabetes. People can also get tight calf muscles after trauma to the leg, ankle, or foot.

  • Will a gastrocnemius lengthening affect my strength or ability to walk?

    This procedure will cause some weakness but most patients will not notice it. Some patients may have a subtle limp, but this typically resolves within six months of surgery.

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Information provided by American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) via FootCareMD.com
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