| CODE | POD2004 | |||||||||
| TITLE | Podiatric Biomechanics 2 | |||||||||
| UM LEVEL | 02 - Years 2, 3 in Modular Undergraduate Course | |||||||||
| MQF LEVEL | Not Applicable | |||||||||
| ECTS CREDITS | 2 | |||||||||
| DEPARTMENT | Podiatry | |||||||||
| DESCRIPTION | In this subject students learn about the relationships between abnormal locomotor function (pathomechanics) and the development of lower extremity pathology. A comparison is made to normal function of the human locomotor system. Additionally, a number of alternative biomechanical models of the foot are discussed, and students are encouraged to critically evaluate recent developments in the field. Objectives: At the end of the study unit, students will be able to: - Develop an understanding of normal and abnormal function of the human locomotor system as it specifically relates to the lower extremity and lower extremity pathology. - Be aware of the development and limitations of various biomechanical theories and models pertaining to the lower extremity - Critically apply theoretical knowledge regarding podiatric biomechanics in a clinical context. - Demonstrate an understanding of the anatomy, axis of motion, range of motion and function during gait of the hip, knee, ankle, subtalar, midtarsal, first ray, fifth ray and metatarsophalangeal joints. - Be familiar with the concept of planal dominance. - Be able to discuss the gait cycle with respect to the functional objectives, joint motion and muscle function of each phase. - Demonstrate an understanding of the incidence, pathomechanics and pathological sequelae of common structural foot anomalies including forefoot varus, forefoot valgus, forefoot supinatus, rearfoot varus and ankle equinus. - Be able to identify the anatomy and function throughout gait of major lower limb muscles and be able to conduct a manual evaluation of each of these muscles. - Recognise the contribution of structural and functional abnormalities of the spine, hip joint and knee joint to the abnormal function and subsequent pathology of the lower extremity. - Compare and contrast the walking and running gait cycles. - Appreciate the limitations of quantitative biomechanical assessment with respect to the issues of measurement reliability and validity. - Compare and contrast the traditional theories of foot function to more recent research findings. Content: - Review first year podiatric biomechanics: STJ & MTJ function, the gait cycle & podiatric pathomechanics - The past, present & future of podiatric biomechanics - Forefoot varus, supinatus & valgus. - First ray pathomechanics - Metatarsal length variations & digital mechanics - Extrinsic factors that affect foot function - Planal dominance - Use of the biomechanical examination form - Hallux abducto valgus - Pes cavus & pes planus - Advanced clinical gait analysis - Alternate biomechanical theories: the sagittal plane facilitation of motion model, the centre of pressure model and tissue stress theory model - Knee & Hip joint biomechanics & clinical assessment - Spinal mechanics related to foot function - Muscle evaluation - Case studies and clinical application of theory - The 'great biomechanical debate' Reading List:- Michaud TC (1997) Foot orthoses and other forms of conservative foot care. 2nd Ed. Thomas C. Michaud, Massachusetts. - Root ML, Orien WP, Weed JH (1971) Clinical biomechanics: normal and abnormal function of the foot. Clinical biomechanics corporation, Los Angeles. - Valmassey RL (1996) Clinical biomechanics of the lower extremities. CV Mosby, St. Louis. |
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| STUDY-UNIT TYPE | Lecture | |||||||||
| METHOD OF ASSESSMENT |
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| LECTURER/S | Alfred Gatt |
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The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints. Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice. It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2025/6. It may be subject to change in subsequent years. |
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