Foot & Ankle Rehabilitation

This elective teaches the student detailed biomechanical evaluation and manual physical therapy intervention of the lower limb and foot/ankle joints. The application of clinical biomechanics to the assessment and treatment of abnormal biomechanics and its resulting joint and soft tissue dysfunction will be discussed, demonstrated, and practiced. Current available literature and evidence for examination and intervention will be discussed. The course builds upon content taught in prior orthopedic classes.

Students will learn to formulate a differential diagnosis for a variety of foot and ankle complaints that may be seen in a direct access setting. Emphasis will be placed on clinical assessment and associated treatment. A biomechanical assessment of the foot and ankle will be used to determine appropriate manual treatment techniques. Students will learn to observe gait and to assess the neuromuscular control of the foot and ankle in both weight-bearing and non weight-bearing. Movement analysis, x-ray, diagnostic imaging, and clinical videos will be used as teaching tools. Evidence-based practice will be highlighted and dealing with the dearth of good evidence of the foot and ankle will be rationalized.