The knee extension isometric with a Swiss ball activates the quadriceps without moving the knee joint, making it a safe strengthening option during early rehabilitation. By pressing the back of the knee into the ball, the exercise builds muscle engagement, supports joint stability, and helps restore confidence in knee function. It’s often used after injury or surgery as a gentle first step toward full recovery.
- Come into an upright sitting position.
- Position a swiss ball or foam roller as demonstrated below, in front of the target limb.
- The ankle should be directly underneath the working knee at 90 degrees.
- Begin to press out as if you were attempting to straighten the leg.
- The ball/roller should stop the leg from moving beyond 90 degrees.
- Sustain the contraction as prescribed by your Physiotherapist.