Gastrocnemius vs Soleus Differentiation

Flexibility

Differentiates gastrocnemius vs soleus restriction.

Purpose

Screen for Gastrocnemius vs Soleus Differentiation findings.

Execution

1. Measure ankle dorsiflexion with the knee straight
2. Repeat the measurement with the knee bent
3. Compare straight vs bent knee values
4. Note which condition is more limited
5. Compare left vs right

Key Observations

• Knee extended = gastrocnemius
• Knee flexed = soleus

Views

• lateral

Protocol

1. Observe from: lateral.
2. Standardize start position and instructions.
3. Perform 2-3 trials per side when applicable.
4. Record key observations and any positive indicators.
5. Compare left vs right when applicable.

Reference

Silfverskiöld test. DiGiovanni CW et al. Foot Ankle Int. 2014;35(8):838-844. DOI: 10.1177/1071100714535202.