By the end of this course, students will be able to:
Integrate knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics of the lower extremity to explain normal and abnormal movement and function (CAPTE 7A, 7C).
Perform comprehensive examinations of the hip, knee, ankle, and foot using history, systems review, and appropriate tests and measures (CAPTE 7D17–7D19).
Evaluate examination findings to identify impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions using the ICF framework (CAPTE 7D20–7D21).
Formulate differential diagnoses and prognoses for lower extremity musculoskeletal conditions (CAPTE 7D22–7D23).
Develop safe, effective, patient-centered plans of care, including expected goals, outcomes, and evidence-based interventions (CAPTE 7D23–7D27).
Implement and progress therapeutic interventions for bone, muscle, ligament, meniscus, nerve-related, and other lower extremity pathologies (CAPTE 7D27–7D30).
Utilize outcome measures, documentation, and billing practices that support patient care and meet regulatory requirements (CAPTE 7D31–7D32, 7D42).
Demonstrate professional and ethical behaviors, including cultural competence, interprofessional collaboration, and advocacy for prevention and wellness (CAPTE 7D4–7D8, 7D34, 7D39).
Critically appraise and apply scientific literature to guide evidence-based management of lower extremity conditions (CAPTE 7D9–7D11).
Communicate effectively with patients, caregivers, and members of the healthcare team in both verbal and written forms (CAPTE 7D7, 7D32, 7D39).
Related CLOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
CAPTE Alignment: 7A, 7C, 7D16, 7D19k, 7D20–24, 7D27, 7D30–32, 7D33
Students will be able to:
Describe bone anatomy, physiology, and healing processes.
Explain the pathophysiology of fractures, stress injuries, and OA.
Differentiate urgent red flags (tumor, infection, non-union) requiring referral.
Perform fracture/OA exams and interpret imaging.
Implement gait training, exercise, and AD prescription; document outcomes.
Related CLOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8
CAPTE Alignment: 7A, 7D16, 7D19o, 7D22–24, 7D27i, 7D30, 7D32
Students will be able to:
Identify LE muscle anatomy and physiology.
Analyze tendinopathy and strain pathophysiology.
Differentiate muscle injuries from referred pain.
Demonstrate MMT and palpation.
Design and implement progressive loading and neuromuscular retraining programs.
Related CLOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8
CAPTE Alignment: 7A, 7D16, 7D19q, 7D22–24, 7D27c, 7D27i, 7D34
Students will be able to:
Identify bursae anatomy.
Explain the pathophysiology of bursitis.
Differentiate bursitis from tendon/ligament pathology.
Perform palpation and confirmatory tests.
Apply modalities, therapeutic exercise, and activity modification; advocate prevention strategies.
Related CLOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9
CAPTE Alignment: 7A, 7D16, 7D19k, 7D22–24, 7D27f–g, 7D30, 7D34
Students will be able to:
Describe ligament structure and biomechanics.
Classify sprains and analyze clinical implications.
Perform stability tests (Lachman, drawer, varus/valgus stress).
Develop rehabilitation and return-to-sport programs.
Advocate ACL injury-prevention strategies.
Related CLOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9
CAPTE Alignment: 7A, 7D16, 7D19k, 7D22–24, 7D27i, 7D30–31, 7D32
Students will be able to:
Identify meniscal anatomy and vascular supply.
Compare traumatic vs. degenerative tears.
Differentiate meniscal pathology from ligament or OA conditions.
Perform and interpret McMurray’s and Thessaly’s tests.
Implement conservative and post-op rehab strategies.
Related CLOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10
CAPTE Alignment: 7A, 7C, 7D16, 7D19g/u, 7D22–24, 7D27g–h, 7D32, 7D33, 7D39
Students will be able to:
Describe LE nerve anatomy and physiology.
Differentiate neuropraxia, axonotmesis, neurotmesis.
Recognize urgent neurological red flags (cauda equina, progressive weakness).
Perform neural tension and sensory tests; document findings.
Implement motor control training, gait retraining, and patient education.
Related CLOs: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9
CAPTE Alignment: 7A, 7D16, 7D19i, 7D22–24, 7D27, 7D30, 7D34, 7D33
Students will be able to:
Identify plantar fascia and compartment anatomy.
Explain biomechanical overload vs. ischemic pathophysiology.
Differentiate musculoskeletal from vascular/neurologic pain.
Perform gait and functional mobility assessments.
Prescribe orthotics, therapeutic exercise, and prevention strategies.
Reference:
Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Standards and Required Elements for Accreditation of Physical Therapist Education Programs. American Physical Therapy Association, 2022.