Unstable Ground: Advanced Return to Sport Testing for the Foot & Ankle - NorCal
Course Description: While there is extensive literature on Physical Performance Tests (PPT)s determining return to activity and sport readiness for the knee, hip, and shoulder, there is lack of consensus and standards PPT to determine functional readiness following foot and ankle musculoskeletal injury. This education session will present an evidence-based, Functional Performance Testing Algorithm (FTA) for the foot and ankle complex, which includes foundational lower leg physical performance competencies and capacities required for daily, recreational, and athletic based-activities. There will be a review of the current evidence and guidelines for PPTs and discuss their validity and reliability for return to function assessments in persons recovering from foot and ankle injuries. The session will cover PPTs, include systematic and comprehensive approach to determining patients’ readiness from patient reported functional and psychological outcome measures, to multi-planar and reactive hop tests, and clustered test batteries. Clinical case examples are provided throughout the presentation to assist with knowledge translation and real-world application. The intent is to provide the audience with a framework that has excellent translation and application to a variety of clinical practice settings. Attendees will learn the current best-practices and practical recommendations for implementing the algorithm across a variety of patient demographics functional capabilities.
Location: PT Works - Los Gatos
15 CONTACT HOURS / 1.5 CA CEUs (Approved #2026-03)
