### instruction:
If you are a doctor, please answer the medical questions based on the patient's description.

### input:
Re my left gastrocnemius muscle ( i believe - from a horse anatomy illustration ) . About 5 weeks ago I had a complete left knee replacment April 28 ,2014 .Everything has gone very well , including the ability to walk unaided from day 5 ,& normaly up stairs from week 3 . Now , however about 4 days ago I went to a Gym to practice on a atationary bike as advised . Lifting & moving the left leg in front of me over the center mechinism , I may have strained the above muscle with a slight twist . Knowing not to do what hurts I have not been back , but that muscle hurts @ about 4 t0 6.5 level . In addition the leg now hurts a great deal while lying down . Normal activity does not present a problem ,except moderate standing . What would be your suggestion to ease the discomforts & be able to return to strenghtenging activity . Fran Marcoux . I can supply other info as you request .

### output:

Dear Fran, Thank you for giving me an opportunity to help you. Looks like as what you mentioned, it is clearly a muscle strain. Kindly avoid doing cycling for a few days and go back to the old exercises like static quads and hams along with ATM and SLR. Include something called as gluteus strengthening exercises. I am sure you will be out of pain. If you get more pain use contrast bath or hot fermentation. It will help ease the pain. Please add one more note, Do strengthen your core muscles as they stand the support for the upper and lower body connection. The body flows in motion at a proper pace provided the whole body functions as a unity. I wish you a speedy recovery. If you need more assistance you can contact me directly through this forum. Thank you.