Enkelplantarflexie

Enkelplantarflexie refers to the movement of the foot away from the shin, commonly known as pointing the toes. This action is performed by muscles in the posterior compartment of the lower leg, primarily the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. These muscles contract and pull on the Achilles tendon, which then extends the foot downwards at the ankle joint. This movement is crucial for various activities such as walking, running, jumping, and standing on tiptoes.

The range of motion for plantarflexion can vary between individuals. It is assessed clinically to evaluate the strength and integrity of the calf muscles and their associated nerves. Conditions affecting these muscles or nerves, such as nerve damage or muscle injury, can lead to weakness or inability to perform plantarflexion, resulting in difficulty with ambulation. Rehabilitation exercises often focus on strengthening the plantarflexor muscles to restore function. The opposite movement, bringing the toes towards the shin, is called dorsiflexion.