Ankle Dorsiflexion Promotes Irradiation of Ipsilateral Quadriceps Musculature in a Healthy Population

Abstract

Clinical Question: Does ankle dorsiflexion promote irradiation of ipsilateral lower extremity musculature during a maximal isometric quadriceps contraction task in a healthy population? Clinical Bottom Line: There is preliminary evidence supporting the use of active ankle dorsiflexion during isometric quadriceps exercises to promote increased quadriceps activation and force production. As isometric quadriceps exercises are often included in initial stage rehabilitation, increasing muscle activation and force production may be beneficial.