Understanding functional assessments in orthopedics
This video provides an introduction to the functional assessments performed at the Ouchy Orthopedic Center. Dr. Jacques Vallotton explains how biomechanical disorders of the foot can impact the knee and hip. Through clinical examples, he details the value of a comprehensive movement assessment to better understand and treat joint pain.
Doctors
Topics
Treatments
Advice
- Dr Jacques Vallotton
- Clinical case of a young sportswoman
- Joint synchronization
- Role of the foot
- Medial collapse
- Functional hallux limitus
- Functional assessment
- Market analysis
- Tendon release
- Rehabilitation
- Understanding the impact of the foot on the knee
- Identifying a functional hallux limitus
- Use functional assessments to adjust treatments
- Preventing sports injuries
- Improving balance in older adults
Why carry out a functional assessment?
Functional assessments analyze movement to link a symptom to its origin. They consider the lower limb as a chain: the foot influences the knee and the hip, and vice versa.
This approach helps to understand recurring pain, for example when returning to running, and directs towards targeted and measurable corrections.
The determining role of the foot and the functional hallux limitus
A functional hallux limitus disrupts the gait and alters the alignment of the lower limb. Natural synchronization becomes disrupted and stresses appear on the knee and hip.
Identifying this disorder allows treatment to be adjusted, from local gestures to rehabilitation programs, with a tangible impact on pain and performance.
The foot plays an essential role in the alignment of the joints of the lower limb.
Understanding gait synchronism
Walking alternates between pronation and supination of the foot, associated with automatic tibial rotations. This coupling conditions the trajectory of the knee and pelvic stability.
When the sequence is offset, the patellar joint is stressed inappropriately, which promotes pain during exercise.
Clinical examples and prevention
In athletes or active patients, patellar pain frequently occurs after stopping and then resuming activity. Gait analysis highlights reproducible mechanisms that guide corrections.
Targeted exercises and, if necessary, movements on the hindfoot restore synchronization and reduce constraints.
Rehabilitation and monitoring focused on performance and safety
Progress is measured and explained. The goal is to empower the patient, enhance acquired skills, and prevent relapses through gradual, supervised recovery.
Regular reviews allow objectives to be adjusted and improvements to be made objective.
Understanding movement is at the heart of our functional assessments.
Course at the Ouchy Orthopedic Center
The dedicated consultation combines anamnesis, clinical examination, and dynamic assessments. The results are shared with therapists to ensure continuity of care.
This coordination optimizes quality of life and return to activity, from senior patients to athletes.
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