Your physical therapist may suggest this flexibility exercise. Repeat as many times as instructed. Stop the exercise if it causes pain, and talk about it with your physical therapist or healthcare provider:
-
Sit with your legs extended, foot flexed. Place a towel around one heel. Hold one end of the towel in each hand. You can also perform this exercise lying down on your back.
-
Pull the towel toward you, sliding your heel toward your buttocks Keep your heel in contact with the mat. Be sure the pull is gentle. Don't bounce. Continue breathing.
-
You should feel a stretch across the front of your knee. Hold for
10 to 15 seconds. Then slowly slide your foot back out.
Online Medical Reviewer: Elizabeth Oswald PT DPT
Online Medical Reviewer: Marianne Fraser MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Trina Bellendir PT
Date Last Reviewed: 04/01/2024
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Related Articles
Tips After Knee Surgery
Follow these tips during your recovery after knee surgery.
Ankle Inversion (Strength)
Follow the step-by-step instructions for this exercise.
Fiberglass Splint Care
It will take up to 2 hours for your fiberglass splint to fully harden. Don't put any pressure on it during that time or it may break. Here are instructions to care for your splint at home.
Sprained Ankles Need Attention
When you sprain an ankle, one or more ligaments on the outside of your ankle become stretched or torn.
