Tight Achilles Tendon Stretches
Even if you don't have an exceptionally active lifestyle, your calf muscles still get quite the workout during a normal day. They become strong, and unless stretched regularly, tight, and prone to injuries. The Achilles tendon in particular can become ruptured if you undertake activities, like yoga and some sports, which require length in your calves. Perform these stretches to ensure the muscles in your calves protect your Achilles tendons.
A woman has her achilles tendon stretched by a physical therapist (Image: KatarzynaBialasiewicz/iStock/Getty Images)Active Achilles Stretch
Active stretching is a method that involves holding stretches for short durations. This type of stretching is ideal when you are rehabilitating an injury. It also improves flexibility when the muscles are tight. To perform an active Achilles stretch, sit on any surface with your legs straight in front of you. Pull your toes toward you until you feel a stretch in the Achilles tendon along the back of the bottom of your calf. Hold this stretch for five seconds and then relax your toes forward.
Soleus Muscle Stretch
The soleus is one of the two calf muscles that insert into the Achilles tendon. Stretching the soleus lengthens the Achilles. Face a wall and stand with your left foot near the wall and your right foot back. Brace your torso by placing your palms against the wall at shoulder level. Bend your left knee slightly and then bend your right knee until you feel a stretch in your right calf. Hold this stretch for 15 to 20 seconds. Repeat on the opposite leg.
Gastrocnemius Muscle Stretch
The gastrocnemius is the other calf muscle that connects to the Achilles tendon; and stretching it also stretches the Achilles. Face a wall with your left foot forward and right foot stepped back about a foot. Brace your body with your palms against the wall. Bend your left knee and straighten your right. Lean forward into the wall and bend your left knee until you feel a stretch in the right Achilles. Hold for 15 to 20 seconds and then switch sides.
Achilles/Calf Door Stretch
The Achilles/calf door stretch targets the Achilles tendon to a greater degree than the other stretches because it begins with your toes already pulled back toward your shins. You then move forward to increase the stretch. To do this stretch, place the ball of your left foot against the bottom of a door with your heel on the ground. Step your right foot back. Straighten both your legs and place your hands against the door. Then, shift your hips and torso forward until you feel a stretch in the left Achilles. Hold for 15 to 20 seconds and then switch sides.
