Lactic acid in calves

I was completely disabled for about three days after a 6k this week because due to flooding in my area it took a lot longer to get back from the run than planned, and I had to go directly to a three-hour meeting without doing any stretching apart from what I could achieve in the shower (very little).

I could barely walk this week and only today does it feel like I have strained my left calf a little: it was seriously embarrassing staggering everywhere like I had actually injured myself when it was due to my own poor planning.

In the future, if this happens (obviously I never want it to happen again), should I do as my boyfriend said and try to massage the lactic out of my calves? It was just extraordinarily painful to even touch my legs, so it didn't seem like the best way at the time...

Any advice appreciated. I already know I'm an idiot for not stretching (most painful lesson learnt ever). I run for fun but am also training for a higher boat in rowing next term and would rather not ruin the training plan like this again.

EDIT: also I use minimalist running shoes, which I have heard might be responsible in part - I am just looking for some general advice.