Course Instructor: 

Christopher M. Powers, PhD, PT, FACSM, FAPTA

Overview of the Course:

Patellofemoral pain remains one of the most common conditions seen by physical therapists, yet evaluation and treatment programs remain highly variable and are often without scientific backing. The purpose of this course is to critically assess current approaches to the management of this disorder through a review of the latest research findings and empirical evidence. Course participants will receive a thorough understanding of patellofemoral joint pain and biomechanics, as well as an overview of lower extremity interdependent relationships. Emphasis will be placed on current research findings in the areas of gait analysis, kinematic MRI, EMG, and patellofemoral joint mechanics. Critical review of long held, but poorly researched, areas of evaluation and treatment will be addressed. Participants will be empowered to critically reflect upon their beliefs regarding their etiology, assessment, and treatment approaches, but will also be provided with “clinical pearls” to take back to the clinic.

Course Objectives:

Upon completion of this course participants will be able to:

1. Describe the anatomy, kinesiology and biomechanics of the patellofemoral joint.
2. Describe the pathomechanics of patellofemoral joint dysfunction.
3. Describe the influence of abnormal lower extremity mechanics on patellofemoral joint dysfunction.
4. Describe the scientific and clinical rationale behind the development of an exercise program for the treatment of patellofemoral pain.
5. Describe the scientific rationale for the use of external bracing/taping, hip strengthening/retraining, as well as foot orthoses in the treatment of patellofemoral pain.

Course Schedule: 

Saturday, August 7, 2021

8:00 – 8:30                  Introduction/Overview

8:30 – 9:00                  Clinically relevant anatomy

9:00-10:00                   Clinically relevant kinesiology

10:00 – 10:15               Break

10:15 – 10:45               Clinically relevant biomechanics

10:45 – 12:00              Pathomechanics of patellofemoral pain and joint dysfunction

12:00 – 1:00                 Lunch

1:00 – 3:00                  Critical review of treatment options for patellofemoral pain

3:00 – 3:15                   Break

3:15 – 5:00                  Exercises for patellofemoral pain: An evidence-based approach

5:00                             Adjourn

Course Cost: 

$195 – General

$160- ATSU Alumni and ATSU clinical instructors

CEUs:

0.8 CEUs or 8.0 Contact Hours

ATSU is committed to a healthy and safe learning environment and vaccinations are required for outside guests.

For questions about the course please contact Cassie Reynolds at cassiereynolds@atsu.edu