External Fixator Exercises: Heelcord Stretch

Speaker 1:

The heel cord or Achilles tendon stretch is performed in order to maintain the ability to flex the foot upward. Your child may lie flat on his or her back, or sit upright with the knees straight. His or her feet should be near the edge of the bed. Stand facing the bottom of your child's foot. Grasp the back of the heel bone with one hand. Place the Palm of the other hand on the ball of your child's foot.

Slowly but firmly, pull the heel bone towards you while pushing the ball of the foot away from you in order to flex the foot upward. Once the foot is flexed, as far as tolerated, hold between 10 and 20 seconds. Repeat five to 10 times. Your child's PT will provide individualized instructions and will work with you and your child to minimize discomfort during stretches.