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Maddie Pedlar

Manual Therapy for the Hip, Knee, and Lower Leg Complex
Clinical Application Worksheet

Course Objectives Covered: 2, 3, 5, 9, 12, 13.


Associated CAPTE Standards:
- 7D20: Evaluate data from the examination to make clinical judgments.
- 7D27: Competently perform physical therapy interventions to achieve patient/client goals and outcomes.
- 7D30: Monitor and adjust the POC in response to patient/client status.

Instructions:
 Impairment/limitation is provided.
 Select 3 varying manual interventions (mobs, STM, stretching, MWM, PNF, etc.) that would be most
appropriate to address the impairment or functional limitation.
o Prescribe manual interventions not only from this course but also techniques learned in PTH646 or during
your clinical experience.
o Must provide a VARIETY of techniques/ideologies (Don’t use all Maitland mobs in one impairment)
 Provide intent and details/dosage for chosen techniques.
o Intent = to create change within a particular structure (joint capsule, connective tissue, soft tissue, neural
tissues) that will contribute to reducing/eliminating the dysfunction/impairment. (e.g. applying a sustained
inferior glide to the GH joint during active shoulder abduction allows for improved clearance of greater
tuberosity under acromion.)
o Details/Dosage = rate/rhythm, amplitude, relationship to barrier, frequency/duration, reps/sets as it relates to
the general purpose (e.g. joint decompression, reduce pain, improve mobility) and based on the
methodology/school of thought (e.g.. Maitland, Kaltenborn, Mulligan, etc.). Link the joint mobilization
grading descriptions to this.
 Practice hands-on techniques with your partner.
 Scoring: .25 pts. per item (technique = .25, intent for technique = .25, dosage/details = .25, multiplied x 3 for
each impairment/limitation).

Hip
1. Decreased FABER
Technique Intent Dosage/Details
1. SCS: Hamstrings By applying a SCS to the Pt position: Prone
lateral hamstrings, this will
allow for the muscle tissue to PT position: Standing on involved side; find TP (proximal to knee
gain extensibility. Placing the joint) on lateral hamstrings (BF)
muscle in its most shortened
position and finding a POC Action: Maintain contact over TP, flex knee to 100o and apply
before applying a sustained tibial ER w/2-5 lb. overpressure to target BF. Find the POC
hold will aid in reducing the
restrictions around the joint. Dosage: Hold position for 90 seconds. Reposition as needed and
With increased muscle tissue repeat 2-3 times if necessary or until there is a change in
extensibility of the lateral symptoms/release of TP.
hamstrings, there will be
improved flexion and ER
ROM.
2. Isometric MET: The hip internal rotators will Pt position: Prone
Hip ER be utilizing an autogenic
Limitations inhibition technique to PT position: Standing on involved side, flex involved knee to 90o
(antagonist = hip improve hip ER ROM. The and place pt. to their end-range barrier into ER.
internal rotators) hip will progress towards a
new barrier for hip ER, while Action: Apply light-moderate pressure at the end-range barrier
the hip internal rotators will into hip ER while the patient performs an isometric contraction to
be working against resistance resist (pushing into hip IR), working the hip internal rotators.

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(performing an isometric Dosage: Hold the isometric contraction for 3-5 seconds. Reassess
contraction). Activating the hip ER AROM and move into the new barrier after each rep.
hip internal rotators will Perform this technique for 3-5 reps.
inhibit the external rotators,
allowing the hip to go into
greater ER ROM since there
will be increased flexibility
and extensibility of the hip
internal rotators.
3. Hip Traction By applying a sustained Pt position: Supine w/distal thigh resting on small bolster. Hip in
(Distal Glide) traction of the proximal its OPP (30o Flex, 30o ABD, slight ER). Ask pt. to hold on to table
(Kaltenborn femur from the acetabulum, for more stabilization.
Grade III) this will allow for greater
mobility in the hip by PT position: Standing at the EOB, hold distal lower leg OR hold
increasing space in the joint above the knee.
capsule. Moving past the TZ
range into a stretch zone will Action: Shift body weight back, arms fully extended. Apply
allow for a stretch to be sustained traction of the proximal femur moving away from the
placed on the joint capsule acetabulum.
and surrounding tissues,
increasing muscle tissue Dosage: Kaltenborn Grade III: stretching, moving past the TZ
extensibility in the hip joint, range into stretch zone. Hold for 7 seconds and repeat for 10 reps
and improving mobility. total. After ~5 reps are performed, assess hip FABER ROM, and
then perform another 7 second sustained hold with 5 more reps,
followed by another reassessment of hip FABER ROM.

2. Lateral hip pain (bursa maybe)


Technique Intent Dosage/Details
1. Hip Oscillatory By applying low grade large Pt position: Supine; Hip in IR or in its OPP (30o Flex, 30o ABD,
Release (Maitland rhythmic oscillations to the slight ER).
Grade II) LE, this will increase tissue
extensibility and create space PT position: Standing at the EOB, w/pt.’s hip in IR or OPP, lean
in the joint capsule. This will back and initiate rhythmic oscillations (R/L, flex/ext).
allow for a greater stretch
throughout the LE and less Action: Apply rhythmic oscillatory motions (2-3 oscillations per
tension on the lateral hip, second) to the R/L, possibly w/some flex/ext to the involved LE.
which should decrease the Modify force/intensity based on pt. response or improved
pain. mobility.

Dosage: Maitland Grade II: large amplitude, stopping short of R1;


perform oscillations for 30 seconds, 1-2 sets, and 1-5 reps.
2. Lateral Apply a sustained lateral Pt position: Supine w/hip in its OPP (30o Flex, 30o ABD, slight
Traction/Lateral glide of the proximal femur ER). An additional belt can be used to stabilize pelvis.
Glide (Kaltenborn on the acetabulum. Once pain
Grade II) relief is stated, moving into PT position: Standing on involved side, wrap a mobilization belt
the TZ will allow for greater around pt.’s proximal involved thigh. Stabilize at the ipsilateral
extensibility of the tissues iliac crest and knee w/your hands.
and take up the slack of the
joint capsule. This will assist Action: Apply a sustained lateral glide of femur on the
in allowing for improved acetabulum.
pain-free hip mobility.
Dosage: Kaltenborn Grade II: distraction (tightening), moving
w/in the SZ range (and TZ when pain is relieved); perform
sustained hold for 3-5 seconds and repeat for 10 reps total. After
~5 reps are performed, assess pain w/PROM of the hip, and then
perform another 3-5 second sustained hold with 5 more reps,
followed by another reassessment of pain w/PROM of the hip.
3. Direct STM to By applying a direct pressure Pt position: Prone
Hip Internal on the tender point of the hip

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Rotators: Pin and internal rotators, this will PT position: Standing on involved side, flex pt.’s knee to 90o.
Stretch allow for the tense tissue to With the other hand, use finger pads to sink down into the tender
break up and have greater internal rotator muscle tissues.
extensibility. Slowly moving
the hip into the barrier (ER) Action: One hand applies direct pressure (pin down) to the tender
will allow the muscle tissue point of the IR muscle bellies and the other hand lengthens the
to lengthen and create more tissue towards the barrier by moving the hip into ER.
flexibility and less tension in
the surrounding muscle Dosage: Hold direct pressure while slowly moving into the
tissues. barrier/pt. comfort for 8-15 reps and reassess tissue quality.

3. Limitations Internal and External Rotation


Technique Intent Dosage/Details
1. Direct STM to By applying a direct pressure Pt position: Prone
Hip Rotators: Pin on the tender point of the hip
and Stretch internal/external rotators, this PT position: Standing on involved side, flex pt.’s knee to 90o.
will allow for the tense tissue With the other hand, use finger pads to sink down into the tender
to break up and have greater internal/external rotator muscle tissues.
extensibility. Slowly moving
the hip into the barrier Action:
(ER/IR) will allow the Improving ER: One hand applies direct pressure (pin down) to
muscle tissue to lengthen and the tender point of the IR muscle bellies and the other hand
create more flexibility and lengthens the tissue towards the barrier by moving the hip into
less tension in the ER.
surrounding muscle tissues.
Improving IR: One hand applies direct pressure (pin down) to
the tender point of the ER muscle bellies and the other hand
lengthens the tissue towards the barrier by moving the hip into IR.

Dosage: Hold direct pressure while slowly moving into the


barrier/pt. comfort for 8-15 reps and reassess tissue quality.
2. Isometric MET: The hip external rotators will Pt position: Prone
Hip IR be utilizing an autogenic
Limitations inhibition technique to PT position: Standing on involved side, flex involved knee to 90o
(antagonist = hip improve hip IR ROM. The and place pt. to their end-range barrier into IR.
external rotators) hip will progress towards a
new barrier for hip IR, while Action: Apply light-moderate pressure at the end-range barrier
the hip external rotators will into hip IR while the patient performs an isometric contraction to
be working against resistance resist (pushing into hip ER), working the hip external rotators.
(performing an isometric
contraction). Activating the Dosage: Hold the isometric contraction for 3-5 seconds. Reassess
hip external rotators will hip IR AROM and move into the new barrier after each rep.
inhibit the internal rotators, Perform this technique for 3-5 reps.
allowing the hip to go into
greater IR ROM since there
will be increased flexibility
and extensibility of the hip
external rotators.
3. AP Trochanteric By applying large oscillatory Pt position: Supine
Mobilization for motions with an anterior
Hip ER (Maitland glide of the greater PT position: Standing at EOB, stabilize contralateral ASIS w/one
Grade III) trochanter, this will increase hand. Hook thenar eminence on anterior surface of greater
tissue extensibility and create trochanter w/the other hand.
space in the joint capsule.
This will allow for improved Action: Apply an oscillatory (2-3 oscillations per second) AP
hip ER ROM. glide of the greater trochanter.

Dosage: Maitland Grade III: large amplitude, taken to 50% R1-R2


(into the barrier); perform AP glide oscillations for 30 seconds, 1-

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2 sets, and 1-5 reps.

4. Limited hip extension/ hip flexor-anterior stiffness


Technique Intent Dosage/Details
1. SCS: Iliacus By applying a SCS to the Pt position: Supine, hips flexed to 100o, knees flexed to 130o.
iliacus, this will allow for Ankles crossed to ER the hips.
the muscle tissue to gain
extensibility. Placing the PT position: Standing on involved side, palpate the iliacus for a
muscle in its most shortened TP.
position and finding a POC
before applying a sustained Action: Maintain contact over TP. Maintain pt.’s hip ER and
hold will aid in reducing the bring B knees toward side of TP. Find pain-free POC.
restrictions around the joint.
With increased muscle Dosage: Hold position for 90 seconds then reassess hip extension.
tissue extensibility of the Reposition as needed and repeat 2-3 times if necessary.
iliacus, there will be
improved hip extension and
reduced hip flexor stiffness.
2. Ventral (Anterior) By applying large Pt position: Prone w/small towel under abdomen around ASIS.
Glide (Maitland oscillatory motions with an
Grade III) anterior glide of the PT position: Standing on involved side, cup patella to control the
proximal femur on the distal leg w/caudal hand. Place the other hand on the proximal
acetabulum, this will femur to provide mobilizing force.
increase tissue extensibility
and create space in the joint Action: Keep the mobilizing elbow straight, using full body
capsule. This will allow for rocking/squatting to provide the anterior mobilization. Apply an
improved hip extension oscillatory (2-3 oscillations per second) anterior glide of the
ROM and reduced hip proximal femur on the acetabulum.
flexor stiffness.
Dosage: Maitland Grade III: large amplitude, taken to 50% R1-R2
(into the barrier); perform anterior glide oscillations for 30
seconds, 1-2 sets, and 1-5 reps.
3. MWM: Lateral Providing a laterally- Pt position: Standing w/uninvolved leg on chair (hip flexed to 90o
Glide + Hip Ext directed force on the and knee flexed to 90o) w/one hand holding onto chair for support.
proximal femur allows for a
pain-free improved ROM PT position: Standing on involved side, place mobilization belt
during hip extension since around pt.’s proximal thigh and beneath your ischial tuberosities.
they are working together to Place hands on pt.’s ipsilateral iliac crest for a
reposition the joint back to stabilization/counteracting force.
its anatomical position.
With this, prior hip function Action: Have the patient actively lunge forward (performing hip
should be restored with no flex/ext) on the chair. During the movement, apply a laterally-
pain. directed force w/the belt on the proximal femur and a
counteracting/stabilizing medially directed-force on the ipsilateral
iliac crest.

Dosage: After the patient reports pain-free movement with the


stabilization, have the patient actively move through hip
flexion/extension for 5-10 reps while applying the stabilizing
force.

5. Buttock Pain –hmmm?🤔


Technique Intent Dosage/Details
1. SCS: Piriformis By applying a SCS to the Pt position: Prone, involved LE off EOB. Hip flexed to 120o and
piriformis, this will allow for knee flexed to 90o.
the muscle tissue to gain
extensibility. Placing the PT position: Standing on involved side, hold the involved LE at
muscle in its most shortened the distal leg/knee w/one hand and palpate the piriformis for a TP
position and finding a POC w/the other hand.
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before applying a sustained
hold will aid in reducing the Action: Maintain contact over TP (mid-belly). Apply 20o ER and
restrictions around the joint. 10o ABD, moving slowly in one direction at a time. Find POC.
With increased muscle tissue
extensibility of the Dosage: Hold position for 90 seconds then reassess pain w/hip
piriformis, there will be mobility. Reposition as needed and repeat 2-3 times if necessary.
improved hip mobility with
decreased buttock pain.
2. Hip Oscillatory Refer to question 2.1 Refer to question 2.1
Release (Maitland
Grade II)
3. MWM: Lateral Providing a laterally-directed Pt position: Standing
Glide + Hip ER force on the proximal femur
allows for a pain-free PT position: Standing on involved side, place mobilization belt
improved ROM during hip around pt.’s proximal thigh and beneath your ischial tuberosities.
ER since they are working Place hands on pt.’s ipsilateral iliac crest for a
together to reposition the stabilization/counteracting force.
joint back to its anatomical
position. With this, prior hip Action: Have the patient actively ER the uninvolved LE (pivot
function should be restored away from the PT). During the movement, apply a laterally-
with no pain. directed force w/the belt on the proximal femur and a stabilizing
medially force on the ipsilateral iliac crest.

Dosage: After the patient reports pain-free movement with the


stabilization, have the patient actively move through hip ER for 5-
10 reps while applying the stabilizing force.

Knee and Lower Leg

1. Limited knee extension

Technique Intent Dosage/Details


1. STM: Transverse By applying a transverse MFR Pt position: Prone w/legs fully extended
MFR to to the hamstrings muscle tissue
Hamstrings (direct force), this will allow PT position: Standing on involved side
for greater extensibility and
stretch to the posterior fascial Action: Stabilize hamstring tissue distally w/one hand and the other
chain. Starting more hand applies a M-L or L-M pressure w/palmar surface of hands. Find
superficial/light will relax the the barrier and move into it, starting more superficial/light until a
hamstrings, followed by a more release is achieved.
direct force into the barrier. The
relaxed hamstrings will allow Dosage: Hold position for 3-5 minutes after release then reassess knee
for the knee to have greater extension ROM.
mobility in extension since
there is less tension on the
muscle. This will improve knee
extension ROM.
2. Anterior Tibial By applying large oscillatory Pt position: Prone w/lower leg off EOB. Knee needs to be in OPP
Glide of tibia on motions with an anterior glide (slight flexion).
femur (Maitland of the proximal tibia on the
Grade III) distal femur, this will increase PT position: Standing at EOB on involved side, supporting the
tissue extensibility and create proximal and distal tibia. Pt.’s thigh is stabilized against the table.
space in the joint capsule. This
will allow for improved knee Action: Apply an oscillatory (2-3 oscillations per second) anterior glide
extension ROM. of the proximal tibia on the distal femur.

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Dosage: Maitland Grade III: large amplitude, taken to 50% R1-R2
(into the barrier); perform anterior glide oscillations for 30 seconds, 1-
2 sets, and 1-5 reps.
3. MWM: NWB Providing a counteracting Pt position: Supine w/legs fully extended and towel or bolster beneath
Flexion and stabilizing force on the distal calf
Extension (supine) femur and proximal tibia allows
for a pain-free improved ROM PT position: Standing on involved side, place one hand on the distal
during knee extension/flexion lateral femur and the other on the proximal tibia.
since they are working together
to reposition the joint back to Action: Have the patient actively flex/extend their knee (perform heel
its anatomical position. With slides). Apply a medially-directed force on the distal femur and a
this, prior knee function should laterally-directed force on the proximal tibia.
be restored with no pain.
Dosage: After the patient reports pain-free movement with the
stabilization, have the patient actively move through knee
flexion/extension for 5-10 reps while applying the stabilizing force.

2. Limited knee flexion

Technique Intent Dosage/Details


1. MET: Knee The quads will be utilizing an Pt position: Prone (or supine if pt. can’t go into prone) with knee into
Flexion Isometric autogenic inhibition technique full end-range flexion (pain-free)
Contraction to improve knee flexion ROM.
(antagonist = The knee will progress towards PT position: Standing at the EOB facing the pt.
quads) a new barrier for knee flexion
while the quads will be working Action: Apply light-moderate pressure at the end-range barrier into
against resistance (performing knee flexion while the patient performs an isometric contraction to
an isometric contraction). resist (pushing into knee extension), working the quads.
Activating the quad muscles
will inhibit the hamstrings, Dosage: Hold the isometric contraction for 3-5 seconds. Reassess
allowing the knee to go into knee flexion AROM and move into the new barrier after each rep.
greater flexion ROM since Perform this technique for 3-5 reps.
there will be increased
flexibility and extensibility of
the quadriceps.
2. Posterior Tibial By applying a sustained Pt position: Supine or seated w/full leg resting on table w/a bolster
Glide of tibia on posterior glide of the proximal beneath the distal femur.
femur (Kaltenborn tibia on the distal femur, this
Grade III) will allow for greater mobility PT position: Standing on the opposite side of involved knee, the
in the knee by increasing space bolster stabilizes the femur. Stabilize the anterior distal femur w/one
in the joint capsule. Moving hand while the moving hand is placed on the proximal tibia (tibial
past the TZ range into R2 will plateaus/tubercles).
allow for a stretch to be placed
on the joint capsule and Action: Apply sustained posterior glide of the proximal tibia on the
surrounding tissues, increasing distal femur.
muscle tissue extensibility in
the tibiofemoral joint and Dosage: Kaltenborn Grade III: stretching, moving past the TZ range
improving knee flexion ROM. into R2. Hold for 7 seconds and repeat for 10 reps total. After ~5 reps
are performed, assess knee flexion ROM, and then perform another 7
second sustained hold with 5 more reps, followed by another
reassessment of knee flexion ROM.
3. MWM: NWB Refer to question 1.3 Refer to question 1.3
Flexion and
Extension

3. Patellofemoral restrictions

Technique Intent Dosage/Details


1. Patellofemoral By applying small oscillatory Pt position: Supine with knee in its OPP (full extension).

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Inferior/Distal motions with an inferior/distal
Glide of patella on glide of the patella on the distal PT position: Standing on involved side, stabilize distal femur or use
the distal femur femur, it will allow for the table to stabilize (depending on amount of knee flexion); w/the other
(Maitland Grade quadriceps tendon to have less hand, grip patella w/heel of your hand, placing forearm parallel to
IV) tension and increased and next to the distal thigh.
extensibility. Prior to the
inferior/distal glide, perform a Action: Apply sight traction, followed by an oscillatory (2-3
slight traction force to distract oscillations per second) inferior/distal glide of the patella on the
the patella from the distal distal femur.
femur. With the increase of
tissue extensibility of the quad Dosage: Traction: Grade Maitland Grade I: small amplitude,
tendon, the patella will be able stopping short of R1; perform traction force (picking up and moving
to freely move with increased patella away from distal femur) for 15-30 seconds, 1 rep.
mobility during knee Oscillatory Glide: Maitland Grade IV: small amplitude, taken into
movements. and through 50% R1-R2; perform inferior/distal glide oscillations for
30 seconds, 1-2 sets, and 1-5 reps.
2. Patellofemoral Jt. Providing an oscillatory force Pt position: Supine with knee in its OPP (full extension).
Mob on the proximal patellar border
(Inferior/Distal while moving the knee into PT position: Standing on involved side, apply a “pin” to the proximal
Glide Maitland flexion/extension allows for a patellar border. The moving hand is placed on the distal tibia.
Grade IV) + pain-free improved ROM since
Passive Release they are working together to Action: Apply oscillatory (2-3 oscillations per second) inferior/distal
reposition the patella back to its glide of the patella on the distal femur while the mobilizing hand
anatomical position. With this, moves the tibia into knee flexion and extension.
prior knee function should be
restored with no pain. Dosage: Maitland Grade IV: small amplitude, taken into and through
50% R1-R2; perform inferior/distal glide oscillations for 30 seconds,
1-2 sets, and 1-5 reps.
3. MET: Knee Refer to question 2.1 Refer to question 2.1
Flexion Isometric
Contraction
(antagonist =
quads)

4. Lateral knee pain and ankle dysfunctions

Technique Intent Dosage/Details


1. Proximal By applying large Pt position: Supine w/LE in OPP (knee semi-flexion, ankle semi-
Tibiofibular oscillatory posterior glides plantarflexion).
Posterior Glide of the fibular head on the
of the fibular proximal tibia, this will PT position: Sitting on the EOB, sit on involved foot to stabilize. Fixate the
head on the provide pain relief with proximal tibia w/one hand and grasp around fibular head w/the other hand.
proximal tibia knee/ankle movement.
(Maitland Providing oscillations of Action: Apply an oscillatory posteromedial force (2-3 oscillations per
Grade II) the fibular head moving second) through the fibular head on the proximal tibia.
posteriorly on the proximal
tibia will allow for Dosage: Maitland Grade II: large amplitude, stopping short of R1; perform
improved pain-free oscillations for 30 seconds, 1-2 sets, and 1-5 reps.
knee/ankle mobility and
increased space in the joint
capsule.
2. Proximal HVLAT addresses multiple Pt position: Supine w/LE in OPP (knee semi-flexion, ankle semi-
Tibiofibular planes of motion and will plantarflexion).
Joint allow for improved
Manipulation mobility in the knee/ankle. PT position: Standing at the EOB facing the pt.; place thenar eminence on
for an Anterior Focusing on mobilizing the the anterior fibular head. Place the other hand on the distal tibia to stabilize.
Fibular Head fibular head
(HVLAT) posteromedially will allow Action: Push fibular head posteromedially as you perform tibial IR w/the
for improved pain-free other hand. Find R2 w/Maitland Grade IV mobilizations (small oscillations

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knee/ankle mobility. This (2-3 oscillations per second) to the barrier) and apply HVLAT
will allow for the fibular posteromedially on the fibular head beyond R2.
head to properly be placed
back into the proximal Dosage: Maitland Grade V: small amplitude, high velocity at R2 and
tibiofibular joint capsule beyond; once the barrier is reached, apply a high-velocity low amplitude
and correctly articulate thrust through the barrier. Perform once and reassess knee/ankle mobility
with the proximal tibia. and pain.
3. Anterior Tibial Apply a sustained anterior Pt position: Prone w/lower leg off EOB. Knee needs to be in OPP (slight
Glide w/Focus glide of the proximal tibia flexion).
on Medial on the distal femur with a
Compartment focus on the medial PT position: Standing at EOB on involved side, supporting the proximal and
(Kaltenborn compartment of tibia. If the distal tibia. Pt.’s thigh is stabilized against the table. Grip the medial side of
Grade II) pain intensifies due to the the tibia w/the moving hand (or lateral if pain is too intensive).
tightening of collateral
ligaments, focus on Action: Medially rotate the tibia w/proximal and distal hands. Apply a
mobilizing the lateral sustained anterior glide of the tibia moving on the femur.
compartment to tighten the
cruciate ligaments. Once Dosage: Kaltenborn Grade II: distraction (tightening), moving w/in the SZ
pain relief is stated, range (and TZ when pain is relieved); perform sustained hold for 3-5
moving into the TZ will seconds and repeat for 10 reps total. After ~5 reps are performed, assess
allow for greater PROM of knee/ankle mobility and pain, and then perform another 3-5
extensibility of the tissues second sustained hold with 5 more reps, followed by another reassessment of
and take up the slack of the knee/ankle mobility and pain.
joint capsule. This will
assist in allowing for
improved pain-free
knee/ankle mobility.

5. Medial tibiofemoral joint line pain and hypomobility

Technique Intent Dosage/Details


1. Meniscal Providing a lateral- Pt position: Supine w/legs fully extended
Mobilization posteriorly directed
(Option 2) force/compression to the PT position: Standing on the involved side, facing cranially. Grasp around
medial meniscus while proximal tibia w/thumbs over anteromedial tibiofemoral joint space. Stabilize
stabilizing the distal tibia distal tibia by slightly elevating the lower leg and placing it b/w your arm and
will allow for a body.
pain-free/improved ROM
during knee movement. Action: Provide sustained lateral-posterior force through medial meniscus
The direct pressure will using hands to create a medial compression of the medial tibiofemoral
loosen up the tissue and compartment as the pt. moves from knee flexion to extension.
improve motion of the
meniscus during knee Dosage: Perform 3-5 reps for 2-3 sets. Reassess knee mobility and pain after
movements. each set.
2. MWM: Providing a posteriorly Pt position: Supine w/legs fully extended
Meniscal directed force (squeeze) to
“Squeeze” the medial meniscus while PT position: Standing on the involved side; place thumb over medial border of
stabilizing around the knee the tibiofemoral joint line (parallel to tibial plateau) and reinforce w/the other
and distal femur will allow thumb.
for a pain-free/improved
ROM during knee Action: Have the pt. actively flex the knee and squeeze the meniscus
movement since they are posteriorly into the joint space as you feel the joint space open.
working together to
reposition the meniscus Dosage: After the patient reports pain-free or demonstrates improved
back to its anatomical movement with the stabilization, have the patient actively move through knee
position. The pt. will feel flexion for 5-10 reps while applying the “squeezing” force.
uncomfortable during the
mobilization but should
feel relief after.

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3. Tibial Traction Apply a sustained traction Pt position: Prone w/feet off EOB. Knee needs to be in OPP (slight flexion).
(Kaltenborn force of the tibia moving
Grade II) away from the femur. Once PT position: Standing at EOB facing pt. w/hands around lower leg proximal to
pain relief is stated, ankle. Stabilize distal thigh w/hand or belt.
moving into the TZ will
allow for greater Action: Apply a sustained traction force of the tibia moving away from the
extensibility of the tissues femur.
and take up the slack of the
joint capsule. This will Dosage: Kaltenborn Grade II: distraction (tightening), moving w/in the SZ
assist in allowing for range (and TZ when pain is relieved); perform sustained hold for 3-5 seconds
improved pain-free knee and repeat for 10 reps total. After ~5 reps are performed, assess PROM of
mobility. knee mobility and pain, and then perform another 3-5 second sustained hold
with 5 more reps, followed by another reassessment of knee mobility and pain.

BONUS (not required, but +2 point overall if all scenarios listed below are completed per the following instructions):
For each listed dysfunction above, consider a therapeutic exercise to correspond and build off your manual therapy
intervention. Must consider:
- purpose and dosing (dosing specific for joint or soft tissue extensibility to improve ROM, improving strength, or
increasing endurance)
- a potential progression and regression of your chosen exercise based on patient capabilities and symptoms. This might
mean considering additional causes or contributions to the dysfunction listed: (e.g., soft tissue extensibility or muscle
recruitment limitations contributing to ACJ pain and limitations with OH reaching). Be creative!!

1. Decreased FABER
a. Therapeutic exercise: clamshells (moving into hip Flexion, Abduction, and ER); pt. side lying w/knees bent
on top of each other (involved leg on top)
b. Purpose: to strengthen hip FABER muscles and improve hip flexion, abduction, and external rotation ROM
c. Dosing: perform 10-15 reps, repeat 2-3 sets; reassess FABER ROM b/w sets
d. Progression: add a Theraband around the distal thighs or ankle weight to the top leg to add a resistance
component
e. Regression: pt. short or long seated; externally rotate involved leg, then abduct to not have to work against
gravity

2. Lateral hip pain


a. Therapeutic exercise: Supine Lateral Hip Stretch w/stretch out strap or belt; pt. supine w/involved leg raised
up straight w/strap around midfoot, bringing leg towards the opposite side of the body to feel a good stretch
b. Purpose: to stretch lateral hip muscles to help improve flexibility for no pain w/movement
c. Dosing: Dosing: hold stretch for 30 seconds, 3 reps, 2 sets
d. Progression: Side lying hip abduction; pt. side lying on non-involved side, bringing LE up towards the
ceiling w/foot in neutral; perform 10 reps, 2-3 sets
e. Regression: Piriformis Figure-4 Stretch; pt. can be supine or seated, stretching out the piriformis muscle,
bringing involved leg over the opposite leg (90/90 position)

3. Limited hip ER and/or IR


a. Therapeutic exercise: Windshield Wipers; pt. seated on floor in a hooklying position, bringing knees down
towards the floor with a rotation of the hips (perform both ways to get IR/ER motion)
b. Purpose: to strengthen hip ER and IR muscles and improve hip ER and IR ROM
c. Dosing: perform 10 reps (5 reps each way), repeat 2-3 sets; reassess ER and IR ROM b/w sets
d. Progression: Standing Pendulum Leg Swings; pt. standing (can be in front of countertop for support) w/hip
and knee in 90o flexion, swinging leg to the outside and inside for IR/ER motion
e. Regression: Seated AROM of IR/ER of the hip w/leg at 90o hip flexion and knee flexion

4. Limited hip extension/presence of hip flexor stiffness


a. Therapeutic exercise: Hip Flexor Stretch; pt. half-kneeling w/one leg fully extended (go into a lunge
position) and push hips forward to feel a stretch in the hip flexors (repeat on other leg)
b. Purpose: to strengthen hip extensor muscles; to improve flexibility of hip flexor muscles
c. Dosing: hold stretch for 30 seconds, 3 reps, 2-3 sets (switch legs b/w reps)

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Maddie Pedlar
d. Progression: Hip Flexor Stretch and Quad; pt. in a lunge position and bring up back leg to hold shin for a
greater quad stretch
e. Regression: Seated Hip Flexor Stretch; pt. seated on one side of the chair so one leg can extend back until
feeling a stretch in the quads.

5. Buttock pain
a. Therapeutic exercise: Piriformis Stretch; pt. supine w/knees in 90o flexion, crossing one leg over the other
(ankle over knee), pulling bent knee towards your chest so you feel a stretch in the buttock
b. Purpose: to stretch buttock muscles to help improve flexibility for no pain w/movement
c. Dosing: hold stretch for 30 seconds, 3 reps, 2-3 sets (switch legs b/w reps)
d. Progression: Bird Dog Stretch; pt. in quadruped, raising opposite arm and leg straight out (at shoulder
height); hold each side for 15 seconds and repeat.
e. Regression: Knee To Chest Stretch; pt. supine w/one leg bent in 90o hip and knee flexion, bringing it
towards the chest until feeling a stretch

6. Limited knee extension


a. Therapeutic exercise: LAQ; pt. seated w/lower legs off the table or chair to allow for full extension ROM
b. Purpose: to improve knee flexor muscle extensibility (hamstrings) to allow for improved knee extension
ROM
c. Dosing: perform 25 reps to incorporate NM re-ed and reassess knee extension AROM; repeat for 2-3 sets if
needed
d. Progression: standing terminal knee extension; pt. standing in front of countertop bending involved knee
slightly then bend knee back/press heel into the floor and raise toes (can add Theraband to provide resistance)
e. Regression: passive knee extension; pt. seated w/involved leg propped up on another chair (apply downward
force on distal thigh to improve knee extension ROM)

7. Limited knee flexion


a. Therapeutic exercise: AAROM Knee Flexion w/Towel; pt. supine w/towel wrapped around midfoot
b. Purpose: to improve knee extensor muscle extensibility (quads) to allow for improved knee flexion ROM
c. Dosing: perform 25 reps to incorporate NM re-ed and reassess knee flexion AROM; repeat for 2-3 sets if
needed
d. Progression: standing hamstring curls while pt. holds onto a countertop or chair for support; can add ankle
weights to incorporate resistance if able
e. Regression: heel slides; pt. supine

8. Patellofemoral restrictions
a. Therapeutic exercise: Quad sets; pt. long seated or supine w/towel roll beneath involved knee, contracting
quads, press knee into the bed and hold for 5 seconds.
b. Purpose: to strengthen muscles surrounding the patellofemoral joint to take off the load; improving strength
will allow for decreased tension on the joint
c. Dosing: perform 10 reps, 2-3 sets
d. Progression: Straight leg raises (can add ankle weight if able) to work against gravity; pt. supine w/involved
leg fully extended and uninvolved leg in 90o knee flexion
e. Regression: quadriceps stretch; supine or standing to increase extensibility of quad muscle tissue; hold for 30
seconds, repeat 3 reps for 2-3 sets.

9. Lateral knee pain and ankle dysfunction


a. Therapeutic exercise: glutes release on a foam roller; pt. sits on foam roller, bringing involved LE on
opposite knee (into a figure-4 position, bringing hip into ER); slowly roll back and towards the involved side
to get a good stretch (move slow and controlled) and hold stretch
b. Purpose: to loosen up tight glute muscles, IT Band, and relieve pressure on the lateral knee by increasing
muscle tissue extensibility and decreasing stiffness in proximal muscles
c. Dosing: hold stretch for 30 seconds, 3 reps, 2-3 sets
d. Progression: ITB release w/foam roller, focusing on lateral knee structures; pt. side lying w/involved LE on
foam roller and other foot fixed to the ground; move slow and controlled on foam roller
e. Regression: seated Figure-4 Stretch; stretch out gluteus medius and outside hip muscles by bringing
involved leg over the opposite leg (90/90 position)

10. Medial knee joint line pain and hypomobility

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Maddie Pedlar
a. Therapeutic exercise: butterfly stretch; pt. seated with legs in ER and feet together
b. Purpose: to loosen up tight inner thigh muscles and increase extensibility to allow for less pressure on the
medial joint line and improved mobility of the knee
c. Dosing: hold stretch for 30 seconds, 3 reps, 2-3 sets
d. Progression: standing lateral leg swings to target inner thigh muscles; perform 5-10 reps, reassess pain
w/mobility and repeat 2-3 sets.
e. Regression: perform one-sided butterfly stretch; ER involved leg, bringing heel to the midline of your body
and hold for 30 seconds.

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