Introduction

The foot and ankle are the terminal segments of the lower limb kinetic chain, absorbing impact, transferring forces, and driving the body forward during every step. No part of the chain works in isolation, so if one segment cannot function effectively, the system needs alternative strategies to achieve movement. These compensations preserve the task but redistribute the load and, in some cases, contribute to symptoms elsewhere in the chain. This course explores kinetic chain principles, focusing on how the foot and ankle accept load and propel forward, and the compensations that can appear across the sagittal, frontal, and transverse planes.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this course you will be able to:

• describe the loading and propulsion strategies of the foot and ankle, including the roles of pronation, supination, and dorsiflexion in absorbing and transferring force
• explain common compensatory movement patterns that occur during walking and squatting, and how to work back from an observed pattern to the possible underlying restriction
• discuss the relationship between foot and ankle mechanics and the wider lower limb kinetic chain

Target audience

This course is aimed at Physiotherapy and Physical Therapy clinicians, students and assistants. Other interested professionals such as athletic trainers, occupational therapists, nurses or medical doctors interested in this subject are also invited to participate.

Practicalities

• Availability - this course is online and can be completed on your own schedule.
• Hours of Learning - No deadlines are applied to this course and it can be started and completed in your own time according to your personal schedule. We expect the required elements to take around 1.5-2 hours depending on your schedule and learning style. Additionally there are many optional resources provided and if you choose to review these the course could take longer to complete.
• Types of Activities - This course includes instructional and/or practical videos, reading activities, AI supported learning activities, reflection, evaluation forms, a quiz and additional resources.
• Certificates - At the end of the course, when you have completed all of the required elements, you will be able to download a certificate of completion and 1.6 Plus points will be added to your personalised learning dashboard.

Instructor financial and non-financial disclosures

No relevant relationships disclosed by instructor.

Accessibility and Non-Discrimination Policy

Physiopedia Plus is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible learning environment for all participants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, national origin, religion, sex, disability, military status, sexual orientation or age in any aspect of our continuing education services. We are dedicated to ensuring that all learners can fully participate in our programmes. Participants who require accommodations or have special needs are encouraged to contact us with details so that we can make all reasonable efforts to meet these requirements.