I don't know how really, just some leftover info from my jogging days. Something to do with strengthening the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. IIRC it works best if you have your feet under something... eg a couch, a bed etc. Flex your foot upward and see what moves. Kinda makes sense. Take it with a grain of salt tho... my jogging days were long ago and people always had some type of advice for chronic injuries that may or may not have been effective These days I'd rather walk or bike.