Soleus Muscle Pain in Runners: Causes and Solutions
If you're a Londoner who loves running, you've probably experienced tightness or pain in your calves at some point. One of the main culprits could be your soleus muscle—a deep muscle in the calf that plays a vital role in running efficiency. When overworked, the soleus can develop trigger points, leading to pain that limits mobility, affects your running stride, and may even lead to other musculoskeletal issues. Here at JANMI Soft Tissue Therapy in Marylebone, London, we specialise in trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and targeted bodyweight exercises to relieve and prevent such discomforts.
What Is the Soleus Muscle?
The soleus is part of the calf complex and lies underneath the larger gastrocnemius muscle. It works tirelessly to support activities such as standing, walking, and especially running. Unlike the gastrocnemius, which contributes more to sprinting and power movements, the soleus is all about endurance—it’s responsible for maintaining balance and assisting in pushing off the ground. This makes it particularly important for long-distance runners.
Why Does Soleus Pain Develop?
Soleus pain typically arises from overuse, inadequate stretching, or improper biomechanics. Repetitive strain from running, combined with modern lifestyle factors like long periods of sitting (often leading to tight hip flexors), can lead to myofascial imbalances. Trigger points form when muscle fibres contract and fail to relax, which can cause deep, aching pain that sometimes radiates down to the Achilles tendon or into the foot.
Addressing Trigger Points: The JANMI Approach
At JANMI Soft Tissue Therapy, we treat soleus pain through a combination of:
Trigger Point Therapy: Releasing the contracted muscle knots in the soleus and surrounding areas.
Myofascial Release Therapy: Relieving fascial tightness and increasing the soleus' range of motion.
Sports Massage: To enhance blood circulation, reduce tension, and speed up recovery.
Targeted Bodyweight Exercises and Stretches: Focusing on soleus-specific stretches (like the bent-knee calf stretch) and exercises to strengthen and balance the calf complex.
Our approach is based on years of expertise and a genuine passion for healing—tapping into the wisdom of evolutionary movement patterns to align our modern musculoskeletal needs with what our bodies were naturally meant to do. We believe that reconnecting with natural movement and outdoor exercise can play a crucial role in rebalancing our musculoskeletal and myofascial systems, allowing for smoother running and less tension. This natural approach will make you feel connected to your body and its healing process.
Tips for Soleus Health & Running Efficiency
Stretch Regularly: The soleus benefits from targeted stretches—like the bent-leg calf stretch, which isolates the muscle beneath the gastrocnemius.
Strengthening Exercises: Incorporate exercises like calf raises with bent knees to build strength without overstraining.
Stay Grounded in Nature: We advocate a return to natural environments—walking barefoot, dynamic stretching outdoors, and re-engaging with nature’s rhythm. These elements, combined with targeted therapy, can restore balance and ease chronic tension.
Choose JANMI – The Experts in Soft Tissue Therapy
If you’re experiencing soleus muscle pain or struggling with trigger points affecting your running performance, JANMI Soft Tissue Therapy in Marylebone is the place to find expert care. We are proud to be leaders in trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and sports massage across London. Our team's expertise and passion for healing set us apart. We’re not just about treatment—we’re about promoting holistic health, inspired by nature and supported by science.
Don't let soleus muscle pain hold you back. Book your session at JANMI Soft Tissue Therapy in Marylebone today and experience how our integrated approach can help you run further, pain-free!
Disclaimer: The exercise tips provided in this blog post are for general informational purposes only. Please consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise routine to ensure it is appropriate for your individual health needs and conditions.
Comments