Management

Leg Muscle Stretches: Knee Flexion

Choose a preferred language

Your physical therapist may suggest this flexibility exercise. Repeat as many times as instructed. Stop the exercise if it causes pain, and talk about it with your physical therapist or healthcare provider:

  • Sit with your legs extended, foot flexed. Place a towel around one heel. Hold one end of the towel in each hand. You can also perform this exercise lying down on your back.

  • Pull the towel toward you, sliding your heel toward your buttocks Keep your heel in contact with the mat. Be sure the pull is gentle. Don't bounce. Continue breathing.

  • You should feel a stretch across the front of your knee. Hold for  10 to 15 seconds. Then slowly slide your foot back out.

Woman seated on exercise mat using towel around foot to do heel slide exercise.

Online Medical Reviewer: Elizabeth Oswald PT DPT

Online Medical Reviewer: Marianne Fraser MSN RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Trina Bellendir PT

Date Last Reviewed: 04/01/2024

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
user headset icon

Need Help? We're Here for You

Our Member Services team is here to help you understand your benefits, find care, or resolve concerns.

1-800-510-9132
quit smoking icon

Call NC Quitline

Need support to quit smoking, vaping, or to quit other nicotine products? You can receive support including medicines free of charge:

1-800-784-8669
car and bus icon

Schedule Transportation

Need transportation to a doctor's office, pharmacy, or other covered healthcare service? Contact us to arrange your ride.

1-800-510-9132
Stethoscope icon

Provider Directory

Need to find a provider like a Primary Care Physician, Specialist, OB/GYN, or a Psychiatrist? 

Provider Directory
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Back Safety: Pushing and Pulling

Pushing can be hard on your back, but pulling can be even harder. So, push rather than pull when you can.

Read article
Orthopedics
Plaster Splint Care

Here are directions to care for your splint at home.

Read article
Orthopedics
"Reaching Up" for Shoulder Flexibility

Here is a stretch for frozen shoulder.

Read article
Orthopedics
Fitting Your Walker

Learn how to use your walker safely.