Note: CEUs are not offered for this course.

Course Description

The monograph describes treatments, precautions, and outcomes for patients sustaining fractures to the calcaneus, Lisfranc fracture/dislocations, and Achilles tendon ruptures. The authors first review the basic anatomy and biomechanics of the foot and ankle joints. Then the writers progress the reader to physical therapy management of a calcaneal fracture. Advantages and disadvantages of surgical fixation compared with closed treatment for calcaneal fractures are discussed. The authors then address managing patients who have sustained a Lisfranc fracture/dislocation. Specific classifications and their influence on management are elucidated. This topic is followed by treatment and outcomes for managing an Achilles tendon rupture. Surgical and nonsurgical management are contrasted. 

Two cases accompany the monograph. Each case includes examination details, intervention strategies, and outcomes. The first case is a 29-year-old active male who had a surgical repair of a ruptured Achilles tendon that he injured while playing soccer. The second case involves an active 29-year-old active male who suffered a calcaneal fracture while jumping off a rock and landing in 15 feet of water. He underwent a calcaneal open reduction internal fixation. 

Patients sustaining injuries to the foot and ankle frequently have long-term complications such as posttraumatic arthritis, decreased range of motion, and limitations with activities of daily living. These patients can be challenging to manage. The quality of physical therapy can significantly affect a patient’s outcome and optimize return to function. The authors have presented an excellent resource for managing these types of patients and making sure the reader is up-to-date on this important topic.

Course Overview

Course Format: Online

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this monograph, the course participant will be able to:

1. Describe the basic anatomy and biomechanics of the foot and ankle joints.
2. Describe the typical outcomes for patients who have sustained a calcaneal fracture.
3. Identify the advantages and disadvantages of surgical fixation versus closed treatment for calcaneal fractures.
4. Develop an appropriate treatment plan for patients who have sustained a calcaneal fracture.
5. Explain the typical outcomes for patients who have sustained a Lisfranc fracture/dislocation.
6. Develop an appropriate treatment plan for patients who have sustained a Lisfranc fracture/dislocation.
7. Describe the typical outcomes for patients who have sustained an Achilles tendon rupture.

Topics and Authors

Stephanie Albin, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT
Mark Cornwall, PT, PhD, FAPTA
Drew H. Van Boerum, MD