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Typical Pediatric Musculoskeletal Development

Presented by Kathy Martin

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In order to understand how to appropriately plan interventions for children with gross motor delays, physical therapists must first understand typical development. In this course, the typical development of the lower extremity (muscle, bone, and cartilage) will be reviewed. This will include a discussion of developmental stages in which genu valgum or genu varum and in-toeing are considered developmentally appropriate. Screening tests for femoral torsion and tibial torsion will be demonstrated. Normative data for lower extremity alignment will be reviewed with an emphasis on when to refer to an orthopedic physician.

Meet your instructor

Kathy Martin

Dr. Martin received a BA in Athletic Training from Purdue University in 1987, an MS in Physical Therapy from the University of Indianapolis in 1990, and a Doctor of Health Science from the University of Indianapolis in 2003. She joined the faculty of the Krannert School of Physical Therapy at the University of Indianapolis in…

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Chapters & learning objectives

Typical Development of the Lower Extremity Skeleton

1. Typical Development of the Lower Extremity Skeleton

This chapter will review the typical changes in the femur and the tibia/fibula that occur with growth. This will include a review of femoral and tibial torsion along with the time frames when hip antetorsion, genu valgum or varum, and in-toeing is developmentally appropriate.

Screening for Rotational Deformities in Young Children

2. Screening for Rotational Deformities in Young Children

This chapter will demonstrate simple screening techniques to evaluate for rotational abnormalities in young children. Normative values will be presented for each screening technique along with suggestions for criteria for referral to a pediatric orthopedic surgeon.