Breg K.T.K., Instruction Booklet, Page: 5 / 28

K.T.K.
Special Instructions
HOLD-RELAX STRETCHING
Hold-Relax Stretching, one of the most effective ways to
increase range of motion and enhance muscle relaxation,
can be easily accomplished with the Knee Therapy Kit.
Many of the stretching and range of motion exercises in this
booklet can be performed using the Hold-Relax technique
described below:
1. Actively move the muscle you wish to stretch to the
end of its range.
2. Contract the tightened muscle firmly, while preventing
motion by holding your leg with your hand or with the
Rope and Pulley.
3. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds then relax.
4. Now again actively move the muscle to the end of its
range. The range will have increased.
5. Repeat the above steps until no more range of motion
can be achieved.
The following example, using the Hamstring Stretch
exercise on page 8 in this booklet, will further illustrate the
proper technique for Hold-Relax Stretching:
1. Attach the Door Strap and Ankle Strap as shown and lie
on your back with your leg straight.
2. Raise your leg toward your chest as far as it will go.
3. Contract your Hamstrings by trying to move your leg
back toward the floor, but resisting any motion with the
Rope and Pulley.
4. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds then relax.
5. Now raise your leg toward your chest again. It will have
an increased range of motion indicating increased
muscle stretch.
6. Repeat the process several times until no more range of
motion can be achieved.
PATELLOFEMORAL DYSFUNCTION
During the rehabilitation of P-F Dysfunction several points should be em-
phasized. Patients with P-F Dysfunction usually show consistent symptoms.
Most often these patients have; (1) poor patellar tracking (primary lateral
deviation), (2) poor quadriceps control, strength and endurance, (3) tight
hamstrings, (4) tight hip flexors, and (5) poor hip control, strength and
endurance. During the rehabilitation process, these areas must be targeted
without causing high patellofemoral shearing and loading forces. The
exercises with the “PF” symbol in the lower right corner of
the illustrations address the needs and restrictions associated
with P-F Dysfunction rehabilitation. Patients should advance in their
exercise programs gradually, using pain and swelling as their guide to
progression.
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