Neymar ruled out of FIFA World Cup opener due to injury: What is a grade 2 calf strain?- The Week

Sharing disappointing news with football lovers, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced that Neymar has been ruled out of Brazil’s upcoming friendlies and is set to miss the World Cup opener due to an injury.

“Neymar reported for duty yesterday here at Granja Comary, underwent all the medical tests, which concluded with an MRI scan revealing a grade-two calf injury, not just swelling. He is expected to be cleared in two to three weeks,” CBF doctor Rodrigo Lasmar said.

However, it has not been confirmed that Neymar would be dropped from the World Cup squad. He had complained of swelling in his right calf. According to Lasmar, the MRI scan did not indicate any swelling, as previously reported, but a Grade 2 calf strain, which is a moderate injury involving a partial tear of the muscle fibers that requires rest and rehabilitation. For now, Brazil must plan without him.

What is a calf injury?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, a calf strain occurs when you overstretch the muscles in the back of your lower leg. It is also called a pulled calf muscle. This kind of injury can range from mild to severe. Treatment procedure for mild injuries typically involves rest, ice, compression and elevation. However, severe injuries may require help from a health care provider.

Who is at risk?

Calf muscle strains are more common in people involved in sports that require lots of stop-and-go movements with quick bursts of speed. Sprinters, football players, soccer players and tennis players are prone to strained calf muscles due to the quick movements involved. At times, the injury is also called ‘tennis leg’.

For more information, consult a health expert.