Straight-Knee Calf Stretch | Assisted stretch in 3D
Straight-Knee Calf Stretch: supine, gastrocnemius and ankle dorsiflexion. Preparation, 4 movement phases, points to check and cautions, with a 3D model you can pause and rotate.
Position and focus
Supine · Gastrocnemius and ankle dorsiflexion
An assisted stretch for the gastrocnemius and ankle dorsiflexion, observing contact, stabilisation and compensation separately.
Starting position
The client lies supine with the legs straight and the heel near the edge of the table. The trainer stands at the foot end, cups the heel in one hand and places the other hand on the front of the sole.
Movement phases
1. Support the heel
Keeping the knee straight, lift the leg slightly.
2. Flex the ankle
Draw the heel while pressing the front of the sole, bringing the toes towards the shin.
3. Check the response
Check for a stretch in the calf and any pinching at the front of the ankle.
4. Return the ankle
Keep supporting the foot as you return the ankle to a comfortable position.
What the trainer checks
Check that the knee is not bending and that the foot is not twisting.
Instructor information
Trainer position
Stand at the foot end of the table and move from in line with the client's leg.
Contact and support
Cup the heel in the palm and press the front of the sole (the forefoot) with the other hand.
Stabilisation
Keep the knee straight and the leg in line with the table.
Compensation
Bending of the knee, twisting of the foot, bending back of the forefoot alone.
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.
