Management

Quadriceps, Short Arcs (Strength)

Choose a preferred language


  1. Sit on the floor with your right leg straight in front of you. Bend your left knee and put your left foot flat on the floor.
  2. Place a rolled-up towel under your right thigh, just above your knee. Relax your leg.
  3. Straighten your right leg, lifting your foot off the floor. Hold for 5 seconds. Then relax.
  4. Repeat the lifting motion 10 times.
  5. Switch legs and then repeat.
Woman sitting on floor doing straight leg raise with towel under knee.


Challenge yourself

Use ankle weights for a tougher workout. Ask your health care provider what size ankle weights to use.

Author: Wheeler, Brooke

Online Medical Reviewer: Dan Brennan MD

Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C

Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN

Date Last Reviewed: 07/01/2023

© 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 and Recipient Services Team is here to help you understand your benefits, find care, or resolve concerns.

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:

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.

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
Soleus Stretch (Flexibility)

Follow the step-by-step instructions for this tendon stretch.

Read article
Orthopedics
Exercise for Shoulder Strength: Internal Rotation

This stretch can help restore shoulder flexibility and relieve pain over time.

Read article
Orthopedics
Shoulder Internal Rotation (Strength)

This exercise helps develop strength in your shoulder.

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.