calf stretch
this exercise stretches the muscles at the back of the lower leg (the calf) and the achilles tendon. do this exercise 3 or 4 times a day, 5 days a week. to do this stretch:
- stand facing a wall with your hands on the wall at about eye level. put the leg you want to stretch about a step behind your other leg.
- keeping your back heel on the floor, bend your front knee until you feel a stretch in the back leg.
- hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds. repeat 2 to 4 times.
repeat the exercise with the back knee bent a little, still keeping your back heel on the floor. this will stretch a different part of the calf muscles.
talk with your doctor or physiotherapist if you have questions about how to do this or any other exercise.
current as of: july 18, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
