Hamstring & Calf Injury Physio Newcastle – Return to Running Stronger

At Up N Adam Performance Training & Physiotherapy in Newcastle, we help runners, triathletes, and athletes recover from hamstring and calf strains. These muscle injuries are notorious for coming back again and again if not treated properly. Our physios use VALD NordBord, ForceDecks, and Dyno testing to objectively measure strength deficits, then guide you through a progressive, sport-specific rehab plan so you don’t just recover — you return stronger.

Book your Hamstring or Calf Physio Appointment today and start your recovery

Why Hamstring & Calf Injuries Happen

Hamstrings and calves work hard to propel you forward, absorb impact, and stabilise running stride. They’re also highly vulnerable under fatigue or sudden load. Common causes include:

• Sudden sprinting, hill running, or sharp acceleration.

• Muscle imbalances between quads/hamstrings or gastroc/soleus.

• Weakness identified on NordBord or calf testing.

• Inadequate warm-up or progressive loading.

• Returning to running too quickly after previous strain.

Without proper testing and strengthening, reinjury risk remains high.

Our Physio Approach to Hamstring & Calf Strains

Step 1: Assessment

• Full injury history and mechanism of strain.

• VALD NordBord hamstring testing (if appropriate) + calf strength assessment.

• Movement analysis to spot underlying imbalances.

  
  

Step 2: Relieve Pain & Protect

• Hands-on physio (soft tissue release, dry needling if required).

• Load management (when to run, when to rest).

• Early-stage isometric holds for pain control.

Step 3: Strength & Rebuild

• Hamstring eccentrics (Nordic curls, single-leg bridges) and retrain the 3 functions.

• Calf + soleus strengthening (heavy slow resistance, hopping).

• Hip and glute work to support sprint mechanics.

Step 4: Return to Running

• Plyometric drills, sprint progressions, and run-specific exercises.

• Retesting with VALD to confirm strength restored.

• Step-by-step return-to-play or race plan.

  
  

FAQs – Hamstring & Calf Injuries

How long does it take to recover from a hamstring strain?

Mild strains may take 2–3 weeks, while more severe tears can take 6–8+ weeks. Testing ensures safe return.

Why do calf strains keep coming back?

Often because the deeper soleus muscle hasn’t been strengthened properly. Our programs target both gastroc and soleus.

Can I keep training while injured?

Often yes. We’ll help adjust your training load so you stay active while rehabbing.

How do I know I’m ready to run again?

Objective testing (NordBord, calf strength symmetry) gives clear clearance benchmarks — no guesswork.

Final Call to Action

• Don’t let hamstring or calf strains keep side-lining you.

• We’ll help you recover safely and prevent reinjury with objective testing.

You can book an appointment with Darren or Newcastle Knights Physiotherapists Katie or Hayd'n at www.upnadamptphysio.com .

Bookings also available on our website for the following services at Up N Adam Performance Training & Physiotherapy:

• Dietitian - Sweat testing, weight-loss or to optimise your training nutrition / fuelling www.nutrientnation.com.au

• VO2 Max testing with Lucas McBeath - to discover more effective ways to train efficiently www.flowitri.com.au

• Strength & Conditioning Programs with Adam Clarke - contact us or book via the website or email us at upnadamptphysio@gmail.com

• Remedial Massage with Katheryn Rodgers - to relieve accumulative muscle tension & keep you training well.

• CycleFit by Physiotherapist Dean Waterman - At Up N Adam, for all your bike fitting solutions www.cyclefitphysio.com