Therapeutic exercise
Supported Heel Raises
Gentle calf strengthening for rheumatoid arthritis. Uses hand support to reduce load on the forefoot and allow activation without overload.
How to perform
- Starting position. Standing, hold a chair or counter in front of you.
- Step 2. Slowly rise onto the balls of your feet, distributing weight between both feet.
- Step 3. Hold 2 seconds at the top.
- Return. Lower with control.
When not to perform
- Acute forefoot pain (metatarsalgia flare)
- Frequent cramping
Medical disclaimer. These exercises are presented for informational purposes only. Always consult your physician before starting any exercise program, especially in case of acute pain, recent injury, or underlying clinical condition.
Related Exercises
Gastrocnemius Wall Stretch
Calf stretch with the knee straight. Restores flexibility of the posterior chain and reduces traction on the Achilles tendon.
Isometric Calf Raise
Isometric calf contraction used in Achilles tendinopathy during an irritable phase, when the Alfredson eccentric protocol provokes pain.
Soleus Stretch (Bent-Knee)
Stretches the soleus — the deep calf muscle that is only isolated with the knee bent. Complements the gastrocnemius stretch (knee straight) for complete flexibility of the calf complex.