Frenkels Exercises
Introduction-
Frenkel exercises are a series of motion of increasing difficulty performed by ataxic patients to facilitate the
restoration of rhythmic , smooth & coordinated movements.
Heinrich Frenkel created the frenkel exercises in 1889 to treating ataxia.
In these exercises, the central nervous system is educated through precise repetition of exercise, particularly in the
lower limbs, with high level of concentration. The exercises are carried out in three different positions: sitting, lying
down, and standing.
Frenkel could be regarded as the father of rehabilitation medicine because he was the first to propose the idea of
exercise to improve ambulation and improves skills in performing task.
It is aim to establish a voluntary control of movement & make individual able and confident to carry out his activities
of daily living.
Principle
These exercises require:
Concentration or attention
Repetition
Precision
Throughout the workouts, the physical therapists should give verbal feedback. Through these exercises, the
patients would learn how to stay balanced and prevent falls by using their visual, somatosensory and vestibular
systems. Exercises are performed with the eyes closed as somatosensory development improves.
Techniques-
The patient is positioned and suitably clothed so that he/she can see the limbs through the exercises.
Concise explanation & demonstration
Patient must give attention to perform exercises
Speed of exercise is dictated by therapist by means of rhythmic counting
Range of motion indicated by making spot on which foot or hand placed.
Exercise is repeated till its perfect and easy
Frequent rest periods must be allowed
The exercises ( lower limb)-
In lying position-
Flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction of the hip
Flexion and extension of the knee
Moving the heel to the patella, the middle of the tibia, and to the ankle joint of the contralateral leg
Dragging the heel along the tibia
In sitting position-
One leg stretching to slide heel to a position indicated by a mark on the floor
Alternate leg stretching and lifting to place heel / toe on a specified mark
Sitting to standing position and then to sit down again
In standing position-
Walking forward
Walking sideways and returning to the original position
Walking backwards
Using predetermined short, medium, and long steps to do the preceding exercises
Turning at an angle between 90 and 180 degrees
Walking in a zig-zag
Walking heel to toe just like the tandem stance
walking up and down stairs
These exercises could be practiced initially from one leg, then progressed to both legs moving simultaneously.
Exercises ( upper limb )-
Shoulder flexion or extension to place the on a specific mark
Arm stretching in a circular manner
Picking up objects and putting them down on specified mark
