How long should I rest a calf strain?

[mjl6907]

I'm not sure if it's in the Achilles or in the calf, but it is in my lower calf, not the heel.  I know, I know, I should ask a doctor, but I'm interested in your experiences.  I'm a relatively newer runner, about a year.  It doesn't feel bad when I'm not running, but it definitely is noticeable after my run.  I ran today after  straining it during my run yesterday yesterday, and I have a 5K on Saturday.  I thought it was okay this morning until after my run.  As of now, I am just going to not run until Saturday and then reevaluate.  Anyone have any other advice or similar experience?  I really don't want to injure myself further, but I also don't want to lose the results of my training....

[Susie]

You're not going to lose the results of your training between now and Saturday. I would rest it, maybe do some walking, and a slow, short, loosen up run on Thurs PM or Fri AM to see how it is. I'm guessing it'll be better.

I wouldn't bother with a doctor with a strain that's only been noticeable for a run or two. That's kind of in the noise to me.