A patient with limited range of motion in the hamstring muscle needs a stretch to perform at home to improve flexibility. Which of the following best describes an effective hamstring stretch?

An effective hamstring stretch involves a position that specifically targets the hamstring muscles while allowing for a comfortable range of motion. The option of standing with the affected leg on a table that is hip height and then leaning forward toward the elevated leg achieves this objective. This position places a significant stretch on the hamstring muscle group because it uses gravity to assist in the stretch and leverages the body’s hinge motion at the hip joint.

When the leg is elevated, it reduces the need for straining and allows for a deeper stretch because the hip is flexed and the hamstrings are placed in a position where they can be effectively lengthened. It also ensures that the back remains straight, reducing the risk of injury or discomfort often associated with improper stretching techniques. This dynamic stretch can also help to improve both flexibility and the function of the hamstring muscles.

Other options do not adequately target the hamstring or do not promote the same level of effective stretching. For instance, reaching for the toes while sitting might not provide as effective a stretch for those with limited range of motion, as it can rely heavily on the lower back and might not effectively isolate the hamstrings. A standing quadriceps stretch is entirely unrelated to the hamstrings, focusing instead on the quadriceps