Calf Stretching Devices

If you are plagued with tight calves it can be frustrating trying to find ways to effectively stretch. Tight calves can cause an abnormal gait which leads to ankle, knee and hip ailments. Stretching devices, like bands, slant boards, the Pro Stretch and splints, are becoming very popular among fitness consumers. With so many products on the market it can be confusing trying to pick the right product for you.

  1. Stretching Anatomy

    • There are two main muscles that make up your calves: the gastrocnemius and soleus. Both muscles attach at the Achilles tendon and travel up toward your knee. The other end of soleus attaches just below your knee and the gastrocnemius attaches just above. When you point your toes away from your body it is called plantarflexion; pointing the toes towards your body is called dorsiflexion. Dorsiflexing your ankle past its comfortable point results in a stretch.

    Bands

    • Using resistance bands is the simplest way to stretch your calves. Sit with both legs straight in front of you. Loop the band around the ball of your foot and pull back until you feel a stretch in your calf. Most research suggests holding stretches for a minimum of 15 seconds, but no more than 30 seconds. You can engage in this type of stretching every day. Resistance bands such, like Theraband, are available for purchase online or at most physical therapy clinics and chiropractic offices. Household items like a belt or dog leash can be used as well.

    Slant Board

    • Slant boards are designed with an angled board that you step on to stretch your calves. Stepping onto the board with your toes at the higher end will dorsiflex your ankle. Leaning into the device will result in more dorsiflexion, increasing your calf stretch. Fitterfirst manufactures a slant board with a nonslip platform that is adjustable to 26, 38 and 42 degrees to accommodate varying levels of flexibility. The Fitterfirst slant board retails between $80 and $90, depending on the size you would like.

    Pro Stretch

    • Manufactured by Medi-Dyne, the Pro Stretch is touted as “The No. 1 preferred lower leg stretching device by professional athletes, trainers and physical therapists worldwide.” The Pro Stretch is designed with a half circle in contact with the ground and a contoured top that your foot sits in. After stepping into the Pro Stretch, rock your heels back. The Pro Stretch will easily roll back due to its rounded bottom. The further back your heels fall, the greater the dorsiflexion and stretch you will feel. The Pro Stretch retails for from as little as $30 to as much as $130 depending on features.

    Splints

    • Calf splints are designed for those with chronically tight calves. Splints are designed with a sock or boot covering your foot and most of your calf. The front of the splint near your toes has a strap that attaches to the sock or boot above your ankle. You can tighten this strap, which will force more dorsiflexion. Most splints are designed to be worn at night while you sleep so you experience a very long stretch. The Body Armor Night Splint by Darco International retails for $64.99.