6 Stretches that Improve Residual Limb Function
It's a common mistake to think that stretching is exclusive to yogis and runners—that is until you wake up one morning with a flinching pain in your lower back. Your instincts kick in and you stretch for a bit, feeling temporary relief. You go on about your day as usual, and you forget about the pain you felt that morning.
But stretching is essential for maintaining mobility, particularly after limb loss.
After an amputation, changes in how muscles are used, how joints are positioned, and how a person moves each day can increase the risk of muscle tightness and joint contractures. A contracture occurs when muscles and other tissues shorten and stiffen, limiting a joint's normal range of motion.
For people who use prostheses, limited movement in the hips, knees, elbows, or shoulders can make daily activities more difficult. Hip and knee contractures may especially affect prosthetic fit, walking mechanics, and balance.
Regular stretching and proper positioning can help preserve flexibility and joint range of motion. The exercises below target muscles and joints that may need special attention after an upper- or lower-limb amputation.
The Stretches
Before You Begin: Choose stretching exercises based on your amputation level, stage of healing, and current range of motion. Check with your physical therapist or rehabilitation team before beginning, particularly if you've recently had surgery. Stretch gently, without bouncing or pushing a joint past its comfortable range. Stop if you feel sharp pain, worsening discomfort, or pressure on an unhealed residual limb.
(photo courtesy of Amputee Coalition)
Knee Flexor or Hamstring Stretch
- Sit on the edge of a hard piece of furniture, like a sofa.
- Point the leg you'll be stretching in front of you.
- Hang your opposite leg to the side.
- Gradually lean forward until you feel some resistance in the back of your extended leg.
- Remember not to bounce!
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(photo courtesy of Amputee Coalition)
Prone Position (Face Down)
- Lie on your stomach.
- If you're a below-knee amputee, place a towel under your leg above your knee, or close to the end of your residual limb if you're an AK amputee.
- Keep enough leverage on the front of your hip and thigh.
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(photo courtesy of Amputee Coalition)
Supine Position (Face Up)
This position may help stretch the hip flexors and improve hip extension.
- Sit near the edge of a firm bed or treatment table.
- Carefully lie back and bring your opposite knee toward your chest, as your mobility allows.
- Let the residual limb on the side being stretched relax toward the edge of the surface.
- Keep the stretch gentle. Do not force your hip or put uncomfortable pressure on your residual limb.
Depending on your range of motion, your physical therapist may recommend extra support or assisted stretching. Do not use weights or ask someone to push on your residual limb unless your rehabilitation team has specifically instructed you to do so.
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(photo courtesy of Amputee Coalition)
Flexor Stretch
- On a table or hard surface, place your residual limb horizontally with a rolled towel under your arm just above your elbow.
- Apply downward pressure to the end of your residual limb until you feel a stretch.
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(photo courtesy of Amputee Coalition)
Extensor Stretch
- Bend your residual limb at the elbow as far back as you can.
- Apply some pressure to the back of your forearm until you feel a stretch.
Important: Flexor and extensor stretches are intended for people who retain an elbow joint and can move it safely. The right technique depends on your amputation level, residual-limb length, and available range of motion. Avoid putting strong pressure directly on the end of your residual limb. Your physical therapist can show you safe ways to maintain elbow flexion and extension.
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Maintaining Shoulder Mobility
After an upper-limb amputation, reduced activity and changes in movement patterns may lead to shoulder stiffness or limited range of motion. Gentle stretches can help maintain the mobility needed for everyday activities, such as reaching, dressing, and using an upper-limb prosthesis.
Depending on your amputation level and abilities, your physical therapist may recommend supported arm raises, shoulder rolls, or other range-of-motion exercises. Ask your rehabilitation team which movements are right for you, especially if you have shoulder pain or recently had surgery.
Related Reading:
4 Moves for Amputees that Target Important Muscles
How People With Lower-Limb Loss Can Improve Gait Through Exercise
Aquatic Exercises for Amputees: Build Strength With Less Joint Stress
