Differential Diagnosis & Conservative Management of Lateral Knee Pain

Presented by Dan Rhon

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Lateral knee pain syndromes are most commonly associated with overuse mechanisms and can be very debilitating. A well-focused history and physical examination is the key to properly assessing lateral knee pain syndromes. By the end of this course you will have a better understanding of the mechanisms associated with the most common overuse injury in the lateral knee, articulate key components of the subjective examination and be able to accurately articulate the evidence supporting exercise therapy.

Meet your instructor

Dan Rhon

Dr. Dan Rhon is a clinician, active researcher, and assistant professor at Baylor University in Texas. He received an MPT and DSc through Baylor University and then a DPT through Temple University. He attended a manual therapy clinical fellowship at Brooke Army Medical Center in Texas, is a fellow in the American Academy of…

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Chapters & learning objectives

Basic Anatomy and Biomechanics of the Lateral Knee Complex

1. Basic Anatomy and Biomechanics of the Lateral Knee Complex

We'll cover the anatomy and physiology of the iliotibial band and knee joint complex, and its role in the function of the knee. Discussion of anatomical structure of the knee joint and ilitobial band will lay the basic foundation of this chapter.

Epidemiology and Etiology of Lateral Knee Pain

2. Epidemiology and Etiology of Lateral Knee Pain

This chapter will cover the epidemiology and etiology of the most common lateral knee pain diagnosis, to include prevalence and high risk populations. Content will include the most common mechanisms that cause lateral knee pain syndrome and the believed mechanisms associated with lateral knee pain as well.

Subjective Evaluation of Patients With Lateral Knee Pain

3. Subjective Evaluation of Patients With Lateral Knee Pain

We'll assess the subjective examination of the patient with lateral knee pain. The subjective approach is very important, as it helps you plan your objective exam. Your interviewing skills are key as you attempt to identify the problem as it is most relevant to the patient, and understand how historical variables and current symptoms play into the diagnosis and prognosis.

Objective Evaluation of Patients With Lateral Knee Pain

4. Objective Evaluation of Patients With Lateral Knee Pain

This chapter will cover the objective examination of the patient with lateral knee pain. The objective exam serves as a tool to help strengthen the initial hypotheses that was established in regards to the patient’s complaint. A physical examination of the direct and indirect structures of the knee, and their association with pain and function, can help the clinician determine an appropriate diagnosis and course of treatment, as well as establish a prognosis for recovery.

The Role of Diagnostic Imaging in the Diagnosis and Management of Lateral Knee Pain

5. The Role of Diagnostic Imaging in the Diagnosis and Management of Lateral Knee Pain

Reviewing the current evidence for the role of diagnostic imaging in the diagnosis of lateral knee pain, Dr. Rhon will discuss the diagnostic value of radiographs, MRI, and CT-Scan for the diagnosis of lateral knee pain.

Overview of Effective Non-surgical Interventions for Lateral Knee Pain Syndromes

6. Overview of Effective Non-surgical Interventions for Lateral Knee Pain Syndromes

We'll review the current evidence for non-surgical treatments for lateral knee pain syndromes, discuss the specifics of exercise therapy in the management of lateral knee pain, and brainstorm interventions with the highest levels of evidence for managing patients with lateral knee pain.