Calf muscle

The calf or gastrosoleus is a pair of muscles&mdash;the gastrocnemius and soleus&mdash;at the back of the lower human leg.

The gastrosoleus complex is connected to the foot through the Achilles tendon, and contract to induce plantar flexion and stabilization of the ankle complex in the transverse plane.

Function
Functional activities include primarily movement in the sagittal plane, stabilization during locomotion (walking, running) and power jumping.

Calf strain (torn calf muscle)
A torn calf muscle happens when the calf muscle is pulled apart from the Achilles tendon. Severe pain is felt by the victim – you may think you've just been hit in the leg and hear a "pop." Sudden pain is felt around the leg.

This injury happens during acceleration or changes in direction. The torn calf muscle may spasm, and contract forcefully. The toes will point down. Bruises show up in the foot and ankle due to pooling of blood from internal bleeding.

This injury may take several months to heal. Do not continue the exercise if muscle is torn. See a doctor immediately after muscle is torn to get you on a rehabilitation routine.