This soleus muscle may get less glory than the gastrocnemius—but it’s actually way more powerful. Here’s how to strengthen it ...

Evaluation of the gastroc-soleus complex (Achilles ... Check for hypertrophy or swelling of the abductor hallucis muscle, and re-creation of the heel pain when palpating deep into the muscle.

When a muscle strain occurs, this part of the calf may become tender, taut, and swollen. A calf strain can be quite painful. The amount of pain depends on the severity and location of the injury.