Being a pedestrian I sprinted across a road and pop! Doctor says its a gastrocnemius strain. So lying down is good, the tablets enjoyable and walking a pain.its a least a week off work

Any thoughts on when to start riding?

I was thinking of borrowing a turbo trainer and just turning it over. I was just getting back after sciatica and some other stuff and enjoying it all.

Keep it moving, don’t overload it (ie walking is good, running is bad) for first 72 hours at least. It all depends on the severity of the strain, obvs, but if relatively minor then getting back on a bike for a gentle ride within the first week is not out of the question and may well assist with the rehab.

The always excellent NHS Choices is your friend.

Get on the bike when it stops being painful.