PROTOTYPEStretch lessons are a prototype. The 3D is a schematic of positions and hand contacts.

Exercise 49

Straight-Knee Calf Stretch

Drag to rotate

Client's muscles and trainer's surface

01 / 4Support the heelBreathe easily

0.0 / 24.0 s

StartMid-cycleOne cycle

Speed

0.5×1×

Supine · Gastrocnemius and ankle dorsiflexion

Straight-Knee Calf Stretch

An assisted stretch for the gastrocnemius and ankle dorsiflexion, observing contact, stabilisation and compensation separately.

PHASE 01Breathe easily

Support the heel

Keeping the knee straight, lift the leg slightly.

Keep the stretch gentle and stop if you feel pain or numbness. Playback time is for comparing movements, not a prescribed holding time.

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.

Hand placement in 3D: heel, ball of the foot (forefoot)

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.