What Is the Silfverskiöld Test?
Many cases of heel pain, Achilles tendon problems, and restricted ankle movement can be traced back to one overlooked issue: calf muscle tightness.
One of the most reliable clinical assessments used by physiotherapists is the Silfverskiöld Test. This simple test helps identify whether limited ankle movement is caused by tightness in the gastrocnemius muscle or other structures around the ankle.
At Recovery Rehab Physiotherapy, we use detailed movement assessments to understand the root cause of pain rather than simply treating symptoms.
Understanding Your Calf Muscles
The calf is made up of two major muscles:
• Gastrocnemius
• Soleus
While both muscles help move the ankle, they function differently.
The gastrocnemius crosses both the knee and ankle joints. The soleus only crosses the ankle joint. This difference becomes important when assessing ankle mobility restrictions.
What Is the Silfverskiöld Test?
The Silfverskiöld Test compares ankle movement in two positions:
• Knee straight
• Knee bent
If ankle mobility improves when the knee bends, it often indicates tightness in the gastrocnemius muscle.
If ankle movement remains restricted in both positions, the limitation may involve the soleus muscle, Achilles tendon, joint structures, or other soft tissues.
This information helps physiotherapists design more effective treatment plans.
Why Is the Test Important?
Limited ankle dorsiflexion can contribute to:
• Achilles tendinopathy
• Plantar fasciitis
• Shin splints
• Calf strains
• Running injuries
• Knee pain
• Reduced athletic performance
Without proper assessment, treatment may focus on the wrong area.
The Silfverskiöld Test helps identify the true source of movement restrictions.
Conditions Associated with Positive Silfverskiöld Test Results
Achilles Tendinopathy
Tight calf muscles increase stress on the Achilles tendon during walking, running, and jumping.
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Restricted ankle mobility often causes excessive strain on the plantar fascia.
- Running Injuries
- Runners frequently develop compensations when ankle mobility is limited.
- Flat Feet and Overpronation
- Calf tightness can affect foot mechanics and alter gait patterns.
- How Physiotherapy Helps
Following a comprehensive assessment, treatment may include:
• Manual therapy
• Soft tissue release
• Dry needling
• Joint mobilisations
• Stretching programs
• Strengthening exercises
• Running gait analysis
At Recovery Rehab Physiotherapy, our goal is to restore mobility while addressing the underlying cause of dysfunction.
When Should You See a Physiotherapist?
You may benefit from assessment if you experience:
• Persistent Achilles pain
• Heel pain
• Tight calves
• Recurrent running injuries
• Limited ankle movement
• Foot pain during walking or exercise
Recovery Rehab Physiotherapy’s Approach
Our physiotherapists assess the entire movement chain, from the foot and ankle through to the knee, hip, and lower back.
By identifying mobility restrictions early, we can help reduce pain, improve performance, and lower injury risk.
Internal Links:
Foot and Ankle Physiotherapy
Sports Physiotherapy
Running Injury Rehabilitation
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