Objective
To compare the effectiveness of static stretching techniques for correcting the tightness of the triceps surae.
Methods
In this observational, cross-sectional study, participants (30 healthy volunteers) completed 10 repetitions of each stretching exercise, holding each stretch for 10 seconds, with a 1-minute rest period between repetitionsand a 1-hour rest period between the two stretching techniques, namely, wall and inclined board stretchings. The length of the triceps surae and range of ankle dorsiflexion were measured on lateral view radiographs. The muscle activity during the stretch was measured using quantified surface electromyography of the lateral gastrocnemius. The subjective stretching sensation was evaluated using the visual analog scale.
Results
Both stretching techniques showed statistical differences in all the parameters. Stretching on an inclined board yielded a greater increase in the triceps surae length than did wall stretching (mean difference, 0.72; p=0.02). The range of ankle dorsiflexion was higher with inclined board stretching than with wall stretching (mean difference, 2.57; p=0.03). The mean muscle activity was significantly lower withinclined board stretching than with wall stretching (mean difference, 53.72; p<0.01). The visual analog scale score was higher with inclined board stretching than with wall stretching (mean difference, 2.07; p<0.01).
Conclusion
In this study, inclined board stretching was more effective than wall stretching for correcting tightness of the triceps surae. Therefore, inclined board stretching should be encouraged for the triceps surae.

Citations

• Efficacy of adding mobilization and balance exercises to a home-based exercise program in patients with ankle disability: a randomized controlled trial
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  Frontiers in Medicine.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef
• How does stretching exercise of the ankle joint affect balance and gait function in healthy older adults aged 65 to 75 years?: A randomized clinical trial
  Hyeon Woo Ryoo, Soo-Kyung Bok, Myeong Hyeon Cho, So Young Ahn
  Medicine.2025; 104(50): e46567.     CrossRef
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  Foot and Ankle Clinics.2024; 29(4): 691.     CrossRef
• The Role of Equinus in Flatfoot Deformity
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  Clinics in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery.2023; 40(2): 247.     CrossRef