I had a class 2 calf tear from playing kickball. This happened 6 weeks after my final sclerotherapy treatment. The pumping effect of my calf is important post-varicose vein treatment. I will be seeing a sports medicine doctor soon, but are there any special things to look out for during rest and rehab from this injury? Should I isolate my calf for a while?
Continue wearing compression hose during your recovery to promote healthy venous outflow.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Avoid strenuous activity and try a 20-30 mmHg compression calf stocking. You may not tolerate compression, so discuss with the doctor. Generally, however, it helps control swelling and may be beneficial in avoiding a compartment syndrome or deep vein thrombosis.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
If the injury happened 6 weeks after sclerotherapy, then that is sufficient time for the sclero to work and treat the diseased veins. At this time, just focus on treating the calf injury. However, if you are truly concerned, I would suggest you follow up with the physician who performed sclerotherapy on you.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Flexing and extending your ankle is good.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
There is no special treatment required at this time, as you are far enough along from your last sclerotherapy session. Low grade (15-20mmHg) knee compression hose can help support both the venous system and muscle. Remaining well hydrated and elevating the legs when at rest are also beneficial. Follow your treating physician's advice.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
If sclerotherapy was last performed 6 weeks ago, the calf tear should not affect your recovery. I don't think you need to take any additional precautions. Still, see the sports medicine doctor and find out what instruction he/she has for you following their assessment.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I would wear compression stockings to support the calf, unless otherwise instructed by the sports medicine doctor.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The only thing I can recommend is elevation when you can and if you have any compression stockings from your previous treatment, I would recommend wearing them until you see the sports medicine doctor.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
This tear should not affect your last sclerotherapy treatment. Your injury may impede your calf muscle pump for a while, but I do not think that this will be a long-term issue. During the rehab process, wear support hose and work on getting back to normal activity as soon as possible. I do not think that you have to isolate your calf, but your sports medicine physician should make that decision.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Wait for the sports medicine specialist to instruct you on how to manage your calf tear. Aside from that, I would defer any further vein treatments until this is healed. Should you have concerns about the actual vein that was treated, I would suggest you follow up with the physician who performed the sclerotherapy procedure.
Published on Jul 11, 2012