Physical Examination
When you come to the doctor’s office with calf pain, the physical exam will probably include an assessment of your calf muscles. You may be asked to lie on your back or side while the examining table supports your legs. Your doctor will carefully examine your calf muscles for tenderness, swelling, or discoloration. During the physical exam, your doctor may also ask you questions about the nature of the pain you’re experiencing in response to touch and other maneuvers. For example, they may ask if your pain is constant or intermittent and if it has an electric quality.
Since calf pain involves muscles and tendons, they will likely evaluate your tendon reflexes and maneuvers on your knees, ankles, and feet. These include:
- The Achilles Tendon Reflex (ATR)
- The Medial Tibial Nerve Reflex (MTNR)
- The Popliteal Angle Reflex (PAR)
- The Thompson test