Management

Quadriceps, Short Arcs (Strength)

Choose a preferred language


  1. 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.
  2. Place a rolled-up towel under your right thigh, just above your knee. Relax your leg.
  3. Straighten your right leg, lifting your foot off the floor. Hold for 5 seconds. Then relax.
  4. Repeat the lifting motion 10 times.
  5. Switch legs and then repeat.
Woman sitting on floor doing straight leg raise with towel under knee.


Challenge yourself

Use ankle weights for a tougher workout. Ask your health care provider what size ankle weights to use.

Author: Wheeler, Brooke

Online Medical Reviewer: Dan Brennan MD

Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C

Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN

Date Last Reviewed: 07/01/2023

© 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.
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Leg Muscle Stretches: Knee Flexion

The following flexibility exercise may be suggested by your therapist. Repeat as many times as instructed. Stop the exercise if it causes pain, and discuss it with your physical therapist or healthcare provider:

Read article
Orthopedics
Ankle Dorsiflexion/Plantarflexion (Flexibility)

This exercise helps improve flexibility in the ankles.

Read article
Orthopedics
Exercises for Shoulder Flexibility: Wand Stretch

Improving your flexibility can reduce pain. Stretching exercises also can help increase your range of pain-free motion. Breathe normally when you exercise. Try to use smooth, fluid movements. Never force a stretch.

Read article
Orthopedics
Protecting Your Neck: Posture and Body Mechanics

Protecting your neck from injuries and pain involves practicing good posture and body mechanics.