Definition
The movement of pointing the foot downward at the ankle joint. Excessive plantarflexion that becomes fixed is known as equinus contracture, a common complication of tibial lengthening.
Sources
- Coglianese DB et al. - Physical therapy management of patients undergoing limb lengthening by distraction osteogenesisOfficial public source
Foundational PT management plan for distraction osteogenesis. Emphasis on ROM in joints above and below the lengthening site.
- Muscle strength and knee ROM after femoral lengthening — Bhave A et al., Acta Orthopaedica, 2017Official public source
Mean lengthening 5.2 cm. Knee flexion 126° → 55° during lengthening → near-preop at final follow-up. Quadriceps strength not significantly different.
- Stature Lengthening Surgery Overview — Paley Orthopedic & Spine InstituteOfficial public source
PT required daily 5 days/week during distraction. Specialized on-site therapists.
Informational only. Not medical advice.