Stretching the inside of your knee, often related to the medial aspect or the muscles around it (like the hamstrings and adductors that can influence knee joint movement), can be addressed with exercises that improve flexibility in the surrounding tissues. One exercise described focuses on hip flexibility which impacts the knee.
One way to potentially influence the flexibility around the inside of your knee is through a butterfly stretch, which focuses on hip adductors.
Here's how to perform the butterfly stretch, referencing the provided instruction:
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Starting Position: Sit on the floor with your legs stretched out in front of you.
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Bring Knees to Chest: Bring your knees up towards your chest, drawing your feet together. Pull your heels in close to your hips.
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Open Knees: Allow your knees to open up and slowly drop towards the ground.
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Gentle Pressure: Hold onto your feet for balance. Let gravity gently pull your knees further down towards the floor.
While this exercise primarily targets the inner thigh (adductors) and hips, improved flexibility in these areas can indirectly affect the stress and strain on the inside of the knee. Tight adductors can contribute to altered biomechanics, potentially leading to discomfort in the medial knee.
It's important to note that this is not a direct knee stretch but addresses the surrounding musculature which can influence the knee joint. Always consult with a physical therapist or healthcare professional before starting any new exercise routine, especially if you have existing knee pain or injuries. They can provide personalized advice and ensure proper form.