When I was 13 (I’m 20 now) I had reconstructive flat foot surgery and my Achilles tendons lengthened on both legs. I wasn’t very good about doing the exercises after the months of physical therapy and now want to have more mobility in my calves. What are some good exercises to go to stretch the Achilles tendons? Thanks so much. (If you could maybe include pictures that would be very helpful!)
The best stretch I know of is the same one others have used instead of surgery. Once you know how to stretch your tendon out it is easy and can be done anywhere and by anyone. Here is how to release that tendon:
Achilles tendon:
With that foot in your lap, take both your hands and place them on the back of the tendon about one inch apart at ankle level. Press the tendon hard between your fingers and thumbs and hold that pressure there. Relax, take a deep breath and exhale and don’t tense up any part of your body. After 30 seconds slowly raise the front of your foot as far as it will go. Then remove the pressure but hold your foot there for one minute longer.
Now, these sites should help you out -
* http://www.healthline.com/blogs/exercise_fitness/2006/11/better-achilles-tendon-stretch.html
* http://video.google.com/videosearch?rlz=1C1CHMB_en-GB___IN355&sourceid=chrome&q=achilles+tendon+stretching+exercises&um=1&ie=UTF-8&ei=I2IVS_-
Good luck to you