For walking, a group of four muscles, known as Quadriceps muscles are the most important. A complete bed rest for a longer period of time causes the reduction in the flexibility of the quadriceps. So, in order to prepare a person for ambulating after a long bed rest, the nurse should focus to restore the flexibility in the quadriceps. This can be done by alternating flexing and relaxing the quadriceps. This exercise would help in reviving the strength of the quadriceps.
