How long should I wait ?

[draikin]

Hi everyone,

After years without any exercise I started running 20 minutes a day (without stretching and with non-running shoes ..) and I got a calf inflammation with swelling. It's been 4 days and I can walk normally now but I still feel a bit of sensitivity. I bought running shoes and will definitely perform stretching before running. But how long should I wait before getting back to running safely ?

[IanDarkpeak]

Welcome to the forum
Tricky question with out more details, age, weight, history etc, etc,..

Golden rule is if it hurts stop. Maybe instead of going out running you should do a few "fast walks" to start to tone up some muscle first. don't stretch until you've warmed up abit, maybe look at a 10 minute brisk walk, stretch, 10 minute brisk walk, after a few days stick an easy jog in the middle, if it goes well then slowly increase time and distance. You'll find that the "Doms" (acheing Calfs) will hurt less and less. Swelling is different, consider seeing a doctor. don't rush it will come together.

[draikin]

Thanks Ian, I'll follow your advice. My calf was only swollen a little bit for a day or so, but I still have this weird sensation inside, not painful but uncomfortable. Should I still see a doctor or does this sound normal ?