Supported Knee Extension | Assisted stretch in 3D
Supported Knee Extension: supine, hamstrings and knee extension. Preparation, 4 movement phases, points to check and cautions, with a 3D model you can pause and rotate.
Position and focus
Supine · Hamstrings and knee extension
An assisted stretch for the hamstrings and knee extension, observing contact, stabilisation and compensation separately.
Starting position
The client lies supine with the left hip bent so the thigh points towards the ceiling. The trainer stands on the left side and supports the heel and the front of the thigh.
Movement phases
1. Support the leg
Set the hip angle and take the weight of the leg.
2. Straighten the knee
Keep the thigh in place and lift the heel to straighten the knee.
3. Check the response
Check the stretch in the back of the thigh and the client's facial expression. Do not bounce.
4. Return the knee
Bend the knee without letting go of the leg.
What the trainer checks
Check that the thigh is not moving and changing the hip angle, and that the pelvis is not tilting backwards.
Instructor information
Trainer position
Stand on the client's left (the side shown in the 3D) with your feet apart front to back, at a height that suits the table. Move by shifting your body weight rather than holding with the arms alone.
Contact and support
Support the heel from underneath with the palm and place the other hand on the front of the thigh (above the knee).
Stabilisation
The other leg stays straight and rests on the table.
Compensation
Change in hip angle, posterior pelvic tilt, lifting of the other leg.
Easier option
Reduce the range and let the weight of the leg or arm rest on a cushion or the table. Go back to checking a pain-free starting position.
Cues and consent
Tell the client where you will touch and which way you will move, and say, 'Tell me straight away if you feel any pain or discomfort.' Confirm consent before touching and before moving.
Stop criteria
Return to the starting position immediately if the client reports sharp pain, numbness, weakness, a pinching feeling in the joint, dizziness, shortness of breath or anxiety, or asks to stop.
Caution
Work within your qualifications, contract and studio procedures, and check medical history, medication and any pain before starting. This is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment. Do not perform unfamiliar techniques from the 3D alone.
These English notes describe a prototype model. Stretch and foam roller lessons have not yet been reviewed by the supervising instructors. They are not medical advice or an individual exercise prescription.
References and scope
Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS — Stretching Exercises with Assistance ↗
For helpers: where to support and how to move the shoulder (raising and opening), elbow and wrist, double knee hug, knee rolls, inner thigh, front of the hip lying on the side, front and back of the thigh, and ankle.
