Evaluation of flexibility of the ankle in elementary students with mental retardation

Aim: This study aims to measure and evaluate the flexibility of the legs, namely the ankle by measuring the maximum values in flexion and extension of both legs. Method: The study included twelve students with mental retardation. Measured and recorded values of ankle-bending extent of both legs and assign the average of each test. Calculated and measurement the temperature of space and time. The measurement flexion and extension of the ankle was a plastic protractor. Results: The flexion presents decrease at the right ankle relationship with the left ankle by 1.86. The extension presents decrease at the left ankle relationship with the right ankle by 11.43. Conclusions: The results found that the normal range of motion of joints has a significant role in improving efficiency and thus on quality of life of persons with mental retardation. The flexibility is a determinant of performance and therefore should be evaluated at regular intervals.