1Ankle Plantarflexion [AROM]
- Come into a sitting position with affected limb out long.
- Position a towel underneath the leg to elevate the foot.
- With a straight knee, move the ankle so the toes are pointing towards the ground.
- Return to a comfortable resting position and repeat.
- Repeat as per Physiotherapist guidelines.
The same action you are familiar with, the towel allows more clearance for movement.
2Ankle Dorsiflexion [Knee to Wall Assisted]
- Your Physiotherapist will provide or recommend a Theraband of appropriate resistance for this exercise.
- Anchor the Theraband to a sturdy point, low to the ground forming a hoop.
- Step into the band and secure the band underneath the bones on the inside and outside of your ankle.
- Move the target limb forward to take up the tension of the band.
- Keep the opposing limb straight and behind for stability.
- Slowly move the knee of the target limb over the top of the ankle, increasing the movement at the ankle joint.
- Hold for the period of time designated by your Physiotherapist.
- Extend the knee from the lunge position and repeat as per prescribed repetitions.
Active upward flexion will encourage overall motion in the joint. The strap goes under the ankle bones on each side.