Ankle Dorsiflexion

Ankle Dorsiflexion: The What, Why, and How is a recent post from Adam Kelly, ATC at www.eatrunrehabiliate.com.

 I like this post for a number of reasons: First, I recently had an ankle sprain myself and like a true physical therapist, failed to take the necessary and appropriate rehab measures. I am now dealing with the chronic side-effects of an ankles sprain and am constantly working on my ankle ROM and mechanics. Second, Adam does an excellent job reviewing the anatomy, kinesiology, and mechanics of the ankle. He incorporates the importance of assessing the whole lower chain as well identifying proximal and distal impairments in his patients. Third, he presents a case scenario explaining how deficits at the talocrural joint could affect the average person. Finally, Adam references other professional links and videos, allowing the reader to have a much more comprehensive understanding of evaluation and treatment of the ankle. 

Some take home points from the the post:  
1) When a person lacks ankle mobility, you may not see an immediate decline in functional mobility. The human body has an amazing ability to compensate. It is our ability as practitioners to find these subtle substitutions. 
2) When it comes to increasing ankle mobility with manual interventions, a multi-faceted approach is important. We must be dynamic during our treatment sessions. What is successful for one patient may not be appropriate for another patient with similar impairments.
3) Do not forget the above and below. Regional interdependence is so important. As competent clinicians, evaluating tibial torsions, hip mechanics, and mobility of the rearfoot and midfoot must all be considered as contributing impairments. 

Thanks for the post Adam! 

-Jim 

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