Cramp turned into something worse?

Triathlon Forum
1

Cramped pretty badly in my left calf muscle during last open water swim. I did not back off completely, just slowed down a bit and tried not to kick as hard with the left. Cramp eased and I finished my training. Now three days later the calf is really sore and it feels like I have pulled the calf muscle. Can something that feels like a cramp during swim turn into a pulled calf muscle? Has anyone experienced this and what can you do about it? I got Norseman coming up in 4weeks and I start to worry.

2007:
Ironman Nice, done…
Norseman

2008:
Ironman Brazil

2

AFAIK, cramp can cause damage to the muscle tissue, and it might take a few days before it feels normal. Massage and stretching might help. I doubt it will affect your Norseman, it should heal quickly. Just treat it like a slight injury - RICE, and make sure it was not caused by electrolyte etc imbalance. Try to avoid pointing your toes when you swim, this is probably what caused the cramp, and pointing your toes is not going to be worth it for an event like the one you’re training for.