Hi Gordon,

You'd want to rule out disk issue in the back as well, which can cause pain radiating down the legs, though usually this doesn't occur with walking, which puts the back into extension. Hopefully the doctor checked that out as well. Is your mom diabetic?

Here's a link to a well-balanced tight approac to tight calves that looks at not just the calves (you'll need to check out deeper links) but issues that also arise around them (weak core and back, tight hamstrings). Looking at all of these things will likely be an excellent approach for your mother, as these are also issues that come up with older people. So looking at a strong core, as well as releasing other muscles that are tight in the chain, and then I'd add in some good lower body strengthening too. Something as simple as sitting to standing from a chair is a functional way to begin. Starting with what she can do numberwise. And working up to sets of ten, done at various times throughout the day.

To get an idea of your mom's muscular state, going to a good massage therapist can be very helpful. A physio can help guide your mom on the path of muscle rebalancing. And can also set her up in a program that can help her do very well as she ages.