Course Description

Purpose: To teach the current theories of biomechanics and the application of these biomechanics in the assessment and treatment of the lower quadrant including the peripheral joints, pelvic girdle and lumbar spine. An emphasis will be placed on a clinical reasoning approach.

Objectives: At the completion of this course, the student will demonstrate competency in:

• use of biomechanical concepts and terminology including the osteokinematic, arthrokinematic,
  and neuromeningeal tension principles for the lower quadrant.
• applying this knowledge and clinical reasoning to assessment and in identifying presentation,
  clinical implications and management of pathology in the lower quadrant.
• integrating into clinical reasoning processes current knowledge on the origin and complications
  of benign mechanical and degenerative disorders of the lower quadrant.
• basic understanding of the influence of distal and proximal tissues (static and dynamic) on
  normal and pathological musculoskeletal states, as well as indications and contra-indications
  to assessment and treatment, and indications for surgical/medical interventions.
• applying theoretical principles to practical application of soft tissue and articular assessment /
  treatment procedures in the lower quadrant with attention to the correct grade, direction and
  duration of the technique and expected mechanical and physiological effects.
• integrating the principles and practical application of safe and effective high velocity
  manipulative procedures to specific lower quadrant peripheral joints.
• performance of standardized subjective and objective assessment; in assessing, analyzing
  and modifying dynamic and static postures; and in developing a home exercise program for
  clients.
• Principles of evidence based practice will be integrated into recording and analyzing data, and
  using clinical prediction rules and outcome measures where appropriate to assist in establishing a rationale for pathology and treatment.

Syllabus/Topics Covered:

• Anatomy and biomechanics (normal and abnormal) of the Lower Quadrant
• Surface anatomy, active and passive uniplanar and combined physiological and accessory mobility and stability tests in the lower quadrant (lumbar, pelvic girdle, hip, knee, ankle and
  foot).
• Relevant special tests of the lower quadrant joints including muscle length, leg length, bursal
  and structural testing.
• Clinical reasoning concepts applied to the analysis of total examination data in diagnosis,
  hypothesis, treatment rationale and secondary referral.
• Theory and pathology of common musculoskeletal and non-biomechanical conditions,
  including indications and contra-indications to manual therapy treatment, and theories of pain.
• Treatment theory and procedures for acute and non-acute conditions identifying general
  concepts and rationale.
• Treatment techniques including muscle energy techniques, manual traction, active and
  passive mobilization throughout range of motion, neuromeningeal mobilization, spinal care and
  manipulations (theory and practice in select peripheral joints).
• Current issues and scientific inquiry with discussion on evidence based practice.