Muscle Impairments in Knee Disorders: Assessment and Care
Presented by Dan Rhon
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Muscle impairments are a significant yet often underappreciated factor in knee disorders and recovery. This course explores the critical role of muscular strength, coordination, and neuromuscular control in knee joint function, offering evidence-based insights into the physiological, biomechanical, and cognitive aspects of muscle performance. Participants will learn how to assess and address deficits in strength, flexibility, and control across both open- and closed-chain movements, with special focus on the quadriceps. This course also integrates principles of neurocognitive rehabilitation and aging-related muscle changes. Ideal for physical therapists, athletic trainers, and rehab professionals, this course provides a foundational approach to optimizing muscle function in patients with knee pain, injury, or postsurgical limitations.
Learning Outcomes
- Analyze the role that muscles play in the functional performance of the knee complex
- Distinguish the physiological and neurological components required for healthy muscle function
- Examine the influence of lower extremity muscle function on overall health
- Determine the essential elements of a proper assessment of lower extremity muscle function
Meet your instructor
Dan Rhon
Dr. Dan Rhon is a clinician, active researcher, and assistant professor at Baylor University in Texas. He received an MPT and DSc through Baylor University and then a DPT through Temple University. He attended a manual therapy clinical fellowship at Brooke Army Medical Center in Texas, is a fellow in the American Academy of…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Anatomy and Function of the Knee-Stabilizing Muscles
This chapter introduces the major muscle groups that stabilize the knee, including flexors, extensors, and those influencing varus/valgus and translational control. A foundational understanding of how these muscles work in synergy—and are influenced by adjacent joints—is essential for rehabilitation planning.
2. Optimal Physiological Function of Muscle
Clinicians will explore the requirements for healthy muscle function, including load, nutrition, hormonal influences, and age-related changes. This chapter also introduces the “repetition continuum” and emphasizes the lifelong role of resistance training in maintaining strength and metabolic function.
3. Functional Implications of Common Muscle Impairments of the Knee
Focusing primarily on quadriceps insufficiency, this chapter explains how muscle weakness, motor control deficits, and joint mechanics contribute to instability, dysfunction, and joint degeneration. It also reviews open- versus closed-chain exercise principles and the synergistic role of the hip and calf muscles in knee function.
4. Assessment of Muscle Impairments Related to Knee Disorders
This chapter outlines a comprehensive approach to muscle function assessment, including strength, flexibility, dynamic control, and neurocognitive integration. Emphasis is placed on using both open- and closed-chain testing to guide treatment and track progress objectively.
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Lateral Knee Pain: Differential Diagnosis and Management
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Muscle Impairments in Knee Disorders: Assessment and Care
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Anterior Knee Pain: Assessment and Management Approaches
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Knee Ligament Injuries: Evaluation and Rehabilitation
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