Things You'll Need:
- Tiger Balm (or any other muscle rub)
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Step 1
Take a small (about the size of a dime) amount of Tiger Balm and spread it lightly over your fingertips. Using firm, circular strokes, knead the balm into the area around your ankle. Place your thumb and forefinger on opposite sides of the Achilles Tendon and gradually work the balm across it by dragging your fingers closed in a pinch-like motion.
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Step 2
Use deep, kneading strokes to work your way up the Peroneous Longus, toward the Tibialis Anterior (these two muscles are on the side of your leg. Both attach just below the knee). Work a bit more balm down the length of each muscle using firm, circular strokes.
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Step 3
Use your whole hand to deeply knead the Extensor Digitorum Longus (this is the the larger chunk of muscle located directly behind the Achilles Tendon). Gradually increase the pressure of your kneading, and work in a circular pattern over the muscle, starting at the bottom. Pay special attention to the top of the muscle where it tucks under the soleus muscle.
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Step 4
Continue the motion upwards, following your Soleus Muscle (this is the muscle which runs up the back of your leg and just under the Gastrocnemis, which is what creates the "bulge" of the calf). Use long, firm strokes to work the balm thoroughly in to the tissue.
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Step 5
Take a little bit more balm (another dime sized daub should be sufficient) and begin kneading the Gastrocnemis (the aforementioned bulge of the calf) with deep, firm strokes. Grab hold of the muscle and lightly stretch it by following a circular pattern. Finish up with a little bit more kneading, and smooth any remaining balm into the skin by using long, gentle strokes.
