Ultrasonographic evaluation of medial meniscal extrusion during common orthopedic physical therapy examination procedures: an observational study
ePoster
Authors: Nathan Savage, Winston-Salem State University Kierra Bell-Linnear, Winston-Salem State University Daniel Heston, Winston-Salem State University Kaitlyn Sparks, Winston-Salem State University Lance Ward, Winston-Salem State University Paul Smith, Winston-Salem State University ,
This investigation provides original data comparing medial meniscal extrusion during commonly performed orthopedic physical therapy examination procedures using USI. Importantly, this investigation found that supine knee extension overpressure produces comparable medial meniscal extrusion to that found during weight bearing, whether in double or single limb standing. Understanding that knee extension overpressure performed in supine during the clinical examination produces comparable medial meniscal extrusion as weight bearing has important clinical implications. Some patients with knee pain cannot be comfortably or safely examined in weight bearing, therefore our findings provide rationale for commonly used orthopedic examination procedures in non-weight bearing to inform the diagnostic process. Further research is needed utilizing USI to inform physical therapy examination and interventions procedures.
Point-of-care USI is recognized by the American Physical Therapy Association as an emerging skill for contemporary Physical Therapy Practice. The results of this investigation may help inform instructional approaches and curricular design in physical therapy education, helping further the discussion about innovative ways to include USI content in entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy curricula to meet the emerging needs of our profession.