Gastrocnemius Release surgery

What is a gastrocnemius release and why is it required some of the time?

A gastrocnemius release is a procedure used to lengthen a tight calf muscle (gastrocnemius) when it restricts ankle movement when walking and contributes to foot or ankle pain. Tight calves can increase pressure through the forefoot (forefoot overload), worsen plantar fasciitis or Achilles problems, and limit walking comfort. Surgical lengthening aims to improve ankle flexibility, reduce pain and improve function.

What does the operation involve?

The procedure is usually performed as day-case surgery.
A small incision is made at the back or inner side of the calf.
The tight gastrocnemius aponeurosis (gristle on muscle) is carefully released or lengthened.
It is a very simple and quick operation.

What to Expect on the Day

Usually home the same day
Leg is bandaged and a boot is provided
You may walk unless instructed otherwise
Pain is usually manageable with simple painkillers
Elevation is important for swelling reduction
The boot can be removed during thee day but will need to be worn at night for 6 weeks

Post Surgical Recovery

Immediate post operative period (0-2 weeks)

A bandage or dressing will be applied to protect the incision.
Elevation helps reduce swelling.
Stitches removed around 10–14 days.

Mild calf soreness or tightness is normal early on.

2-6 weeks after surgery

Gradual increase in walking and movement.
Gentle physiotherapy and stretching typically start after wound healing.
Boot can be removed during day but needs to remain at night for 6 weeks.

6-12 weeks after surgery

Most daily activities become comfortable.
Exercise such as cycling or swimming can usually begin after wound healing.
Swelling and scar sensitivity continue to settle.

Longer term (3-6 months and beyond)

Full recovery is well underway.
Scar tissue softens and the foot feels more natural.
Most patients return to:
- Golf, gym, casual hiking by 8–12 weeks
- Higher-impact sports by 3–6 months depending on comfort
Final comfort levels may continue to improve for up to 6–12 months.

Outcomes

Before Surgery

Stiffness or tightness in calf during walking
Heel or forefoot pain aggravated by activity
Difficulty on hills, inclines or stairs
Limited ankle movement despite stretching

After Surgery

Increased ankle flexibility
Reduced tightness and improved gait
Less strain through heel and forefoot
Greater comfort during walking and exercise
Long-lasting symptom relief in most patients

Long term success

Results are durable when combined with rehabilitation and calf stretching.
Physiotherapy plays an important role in maintaining flexibility.
Supportive footwear and gradual activity progression improve outcome durability.

Contact Us

Contact to arrange an appointment

Prof Mason has clinics at Spire Liverpool (weekly) and in Douglas, Isle of Man (every 3 months)

Cost -

Initial consultation - £250

Follow-up - £150

Prof Lyndon Mason

Spire Liverpool Hospital, 57 Greenbank Rd, Liverpool L18 1HQ, UK

Patient Liaison - Clare van de Waal Telephone - 07717580737 E-mail - CVDWclerical@outlook.com Website - <<https://liverpoolfootandankle.com/<<

Gastrocnemius Release surgery

What is a gastrocnemius release and why is it required some of the time?

What does the operation involve?

gastrocnemius release Consent Information

Post Surgical Recovery

Immediate post operative period (0-2 weeks)

2-6 weeks after surgery

6-12 weeks after surgery

Longer term (3-6 months and beyond)

Outcomes

Before Surgery

After Surgery

Long term success

Contact Us

Drop us a line!

Contact to arrange an appointment

Prof Lyndon Mason

Gastrocnemius Release surgery

What is a gastrocnemius release and why is it required some of the time?

What does the operation involve?

gastrocnemius release Consent Information

Post Surgical Recovery

Immediate post operative period (0-2 weeks)

2-6 weeks after surgery

6-12 weeks after surgery

Longer term (3-6 months and beyond)

Outcomes

Before Surgery

After Surgery

Long term success

Contact Us

Drop us a line!

Contact to arrange an appointment

Prof Lyndon Mason

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