What are the end feel and ROM for ankle plantarflexion?

• A. FIRM end feel, 0-50 degrees
• B. HARD end feel, 0-50 degrees
• C. FIRM end feel, 0-40 degrees
• D. SOFT end feel, 0-50 degrees

Answer: (A)

Plantarflexion is resisted mainly by the tension of the posterior soft tissues and joint structures, so the end feel should be firm rather than soft or hard. The normal range from neutral is about 0 degrees to roughly 50 degrees of plantarflexion, so the best fit is a firm end feel with about 50 degrees of motion. This combination matches the typical clinical findings: the movement ends due to soft tissue and capsule/t tendon tension, not due to fat compression or bone contact. If you encountered a soft end feel, it could indicate swelling or excessive soft tissue, while a hard end feel would suggest a bony block rather than soft-tissue limitation. The 0-50 degree range reflects the common measurement standard for this motion.