- 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.
- Place a rolled-up towel under your right thigh, just above your knee. Relax your leg.
- Straighten your right leg, lifting your foot off the floor. Hold for
5 seconds. Then relax. - Repeat the lifting motion
10 times. - Switch legs and then repeat.
Challenge yourself
Use ankle weights for a tougher workout. Ask your health care provider what size ankle weights to use.
Author: Wheeler, Brooke
© 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.
Orthopedics CTA
Find a DoctorRelated Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Back Safety: Sitting
Sitting can strain your back if you don't do it right. Learn the right moves to protect your back.
Read article
Orthopedics
The Side-Bend Stretch: A Gentle Exercise
Follow these step-by-step instructions for the side-bend stretch. This exercise stretches and strengthens the intercostal muscles, which help support the ribs.
Read article
Orthopedics
Pendulum (Flexibility)
Follow this step-by-step exercise to increase your shoulder flexibility.
Read article
Orthopedics
Using Crutches: Up and Down Steps
When climbing up and down steps using crutches, remember this rule: Up with the good (unaffected leg) and down with the bad (affected leg). Read on for helpful tips and illustrations.
