The difference between a strain and a tear of the gastrocnemius muscle is mainly the following: first, a strain of the gastrocnemius muscle is much less severe than a tear. Because strains mainly lead to damage to the muscle fiber tissue of the gastrocnemius muscle, but generally have an impact on the functional activity of the gastrocnemius muscle while tears. Much more serious than a strain, usually the muscle tissue of the gastrocnemius muscle appears to have a localized break. This leads to a significant impact on the functional activity of the gastrocnemius muscle. Second, the symptoms are different. After a strain, the gastrocnemius muscle area will be painful and unfavorable, but can also carry out appropriate activities. After a tear, the gastrocnemius will swell significantly, the pain is much heavier and the leg will become weak when moving. This is due to the serious impairment of the gastrocnemius muscle function. Third, the gastrocnemius muscle strain after 1-3 weeks of time are generally able to basic healing. But tears generally take about 4-6 weeks to achieve initial healing. Sometimes surgery or external fixation in a cast is required, and full recovery takes about 3 months.