Exercise
Calf stretches for cramp,
swollen-aching leg
More and more people are traveling on long-haul flights these days. Stretch helps to prevent injury and helps to improve performance of sports and activities of daily living. Stretch also helps patients to survive their long flight from those swollen and aching legs. Muscle tightness shortens the muscle fibres. Since the volume of the muscle stays more or less constant, tightness also increases the diameter of the muscle. This could cause significant pressure increase in the lower leg compartments where muscles are divided by tough fasciae, hence affecting venous return (blood return to the heart). Calf (back of the lower leg) stretches performed in the plane seat by resting the feet against the legs of the front chair or every time going to the toilet help to reduce calf muscle tightness and minimize restriction of blood flow. Whenever possible, patients should get out of their seats to walk up and down the aisles or go to the toilet to have a good stretch all over. The same applies to patients suffering from calf cramps and swollen/aching legs of no specific pathology. Simple calf stretches may be the best cure and could be the best gift such patients may receive. Human beings are naturally lazy. This is only normal. The Law of Conservation reminds us to save energy whenever possible. Once patients are misled that stretching does not prevent sports injuries and we give them the green light for not having to stretch, they will gladly excuse themselves from all kind of stretches!
Luck LI
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist