HealthSheets™

Adhering to the principles of health literacy, this extensive library of evidence-based, peer-reviewed information was written specifically for patients and covers diseases and conditions, diagnosis and treatments, surgeries and procedures, and wellness and safety for people of all ages and walks of life.

Click a letter to see a list of conditions beginning with that letter.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Popliteus Stretch

This exercise will increase the flexibility of your Popliteus muscle (the muscle behind your knee). During this exercise you should feel the stretch behind your knee. You should feel a “stretching” or “pulling” sensation, but not pain.

Do this exercise _______ times (repetitions). Hold for _______ seconds. Do _______ sessions every or every other day.

These instructions are for stretching your right knee.

Stand behind a chair or other stable surface such as a counter, counter top, dresser or table.
Bend your right knee slightly. Turn your lower leg and foot outward.
Place your left leg across and in front of your right leg. Rest your toes and the ball of your left foot on the floor outside your right foot.
Place your left calf against your right shin just below the knee.
Straighten your right knee as far as you can.
Straighten your left knee to press your right knee back. You should feel the stretch in the back of your right knee.

Popliteus Illustration

Position legs

Start

Straighten your right knee, and then straighten your left knee.

End

Feel the stretch along the shaded gray area on the back of the leg.