Evidence-Based Examination of the Foot and Ankle: An Update

Presented by Alexis Wright

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Video Runtime: 75 Minutes, Learning Assessments: 22 Minutes

In this course, users will evaluate the impact and prevalence of foot and ankle dysfunction, understand the imperative patient history elements of a foot and ankle examination, and identify which patient history components are affiliated with foot and ankle pathology. The most common forms of self-report outcomes measures for the foot and ankle are presented and discussed. Viewers will also identify the most prevalent red flags germane to the foot and ankle examination and differentiate the purposes of each diagnostic test for sinister problems. An objective is to synthesize the importance of specific, meaningful clinical findings during the examination process and evaluate the benefit of palpation and manual muscle testing as part of a dedicated clinical examination. Lastly, viewers will identify the most diagnostic foot- and ankle-oriented special tests and apply the tests to the appropriate diagnoses. Current research is presented throughout the course to provide learners with the proper tools for evidence-based management of these patients. This course is part of a comprehensive clinical series covering examination and intervention for the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine, as well as the upper (shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand) and lower (hip, pelvis, knee, foot, and ankle) quarters.

Meet your instructor

Alexis Wright

Alexis A. Wright serves as professor and program director for the Tufts DPT Boston program. Wright has been invested in DPT education since 2011. She was recognized as a fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists in 2011 and achieved APTA board-certified orthopedic specialization in 2015. Wright…

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Chapters & learning objectives

Foot and Ankle Dysfunction: Prevalence, Incidence, and Etiology

1. Foot and Ankle Dysfunction: Prevalence, Incidence, and Etiology

In this chapter, learners will evaluate the economic impact of foot/ankle dysfunction and consider the prevalence/incidence of foot/ankle pain and how this influences clinical practice. The overall burden of foot/ankle pain is discussed in comparison to other musculoskeletal and nonmusculoskeletal conditions worldwide.

Patient History and Outcomes Measures

2. Patient History and Outcomes Measures

In this chapter, learners will discuss the imperative patient history elements of a foot/ankle examination and define which patient history components are affiliated with foot/ankle pathology. Learners will also discuss the most common forms of self-report patient outcomes measures, as well as their validity.

Observation

3. Observation

In this chapter, learners will identify the link between observation of posture and foot/ankle pain or dysfunction. Learners will also identify benefits of general observation of a patient’s expression of fear, anxiety, or distress.

Triage and Screening

4. Triage and Screening

In this chapter, learners will identify the most prevalent red flags germane to the foot/ankle examination. The chapter will compare and contrast the purposes of each diagnostic test for sinister problems. Learners will also analyze the triggers that would prompt the use of a test for ruling out a condition, and evaluate the benefit of performing these “ruling out” actions first within the examination. Lastly, learners will understand structural differentiation.

The Movement Examination

5. The Movement Examination

This chapter will synthesize the importance of the movement assessment and will contrast the goals of the three primary phases of the initial examination.

Palpation, Manual Muscle Testing, and Physical Performance Measures

6. Palpation, Manual Muscle Testing, and Physical Performance Measures

This chapter will evaluate the benefit of palpation as part of a dedicated clinical examination. Learners will also evaluate the benefit and types of manual muscle testing for the foot/ankle.

Special Tests

7. Special Tests

In this chapter, learners will understand the language of diagnostic accuracy and will identify the most diagnostic foot/ankle-oriented special tests. The purpose of the chapter is to apply the tests to the appropriate diagnoses for better patient management.

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