1. Eccentric heel drop description |
a. Stand with the heel of the affected foot beyond the edge of the step or platform with the foot plantar flexed. Slowly lower the heel, bringing the foot into dorsiflexion. |
b. Perform the exercise both with the knee straight (gastrocnemius) and with the knee bent 45 degrees (soleus). |
c. Avoid concentric exercise by raising the foot back to the plantar flexed starting position using the unaffected foot, and hands if a railing is available. |
2. Number of exercises |
a. Perform 3 sets of 15 repetitions with straight knees, then 3 sets of 15 repetitions with bent knees. |
b. Perform this cycle twice daily (180 drops/day). |
c. Continue the program 7 days per week for 12 to 24 weeks. |
3. Exercise progression |
a. The exercises must be uncomfortable; when heel drops are no longer painful add weight by using a backpack, dumbbells, or a weight machine. |
Do you want to add Medilib to your home screen?