Dorsiflexion flexibility is required during the lower phases of the squat and leg press, so Ankle Dorsiflexion inflexibility can make it difficult to perform squat (Kim 2015) and leg press exercises in full range of motion. If the range of motion of the ankle is limited, knee flexion can be inhibited and hip flexion may be exaggerated which can inadvertently increase thoracic and lumbar spine flexion (List 2013, Campos 2016). Also see Butt Wink. To maintain normal range of motion in both the hip and knee, the heel may have a tendency to leave the floor or platform.
– Examples of affected exercises with suggestions for affected individuals until range of motion is restored
– Leg Press : place feet higher on the platform
– Squats: wider stance or elevate heels slightly on board or weight plates
– Range of motion may need to be restricted so heels do not raise at lower portion of exercise
– Example Assessments
– Deep Squat
– Active Bent Knee Foot Raise Test
– Ankle Dorsiflexion ROM
– Example preventative/corrective exercises:
– Gastrocnemius Stretch
– Soleus Stretch
– Calf Raise
– Calf Press
