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The Relevance of Eccentric Calf Control & Activities to Achieve It

What do toe walking, clumsiness, pronation, calcaneal (crouched) gait, scissor gait, & many more posture & gait patterns have in common? … inadequate eccentric calf control! Therapists are often unaware of the impact that poor eccentric calf muscle function has …

Overview

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What do toe walking, clumsiness, pronation, calcaneal (crouched) gait, scissor gait, & many more posture & gait patterns have in common?

… inadequate eccentric calf control!

Therapists are often unaware of the impact that poor eccentric calf muscle function has on gait, balance & postural stability. However, the eccentric activity of gastrocnemius & soleus provides stability & control as we move through space, and is therefore essential for optimum gait & postural control. Liesa provides a functional review of calf muscle anatomy & function. The course addresses the significance of eccentric calf function, and includes intervention strategies to increase eccentric strength. In addition, the future effects of eccentric weakness on balance and ambulation is described.

Following this training, participants will be able to: 

  1. Describe three ways the calf muscles function eccentrically.
  2. List the distal & proximal attachments sites for 2 calf muscles.
  3. Design 3 activities to increase eccentric calf strength.

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Instructor

Liesa M. Ritchie, PT, DPT, PCS, is a licensed physical therapist with 33 years experience in the field of pediatric therapy. Liesa is the owner of Know To Change, an organization dedicated to advancing the knowledge & skills of clinicians in pediatric practice. Both nationally & internationally, she has educated healthcare professionals in advanced treatment techniques, performed specialized practical training & provided consultative services. Liesa has worked in a variety of settings, including private pediatric clinics, schools, private homes, hospitals and long-term care facilities, as well as facilities overseas. Dr. Ritchie is a Credentialed Clinical Instructor and also taught human anatomy, physiology & nutrition. She received her Associate’s Degree in 1993 & worked as a physical therapist assistant while obtaining her Bachelor of Science Degree in Organizational Leadership from Southern Nazarene University in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Dr. Ritchie earned her Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Findlay in Findlay, Ohio in 2003 & continued to expand her expertise in the field. She received her post-graduate Doctorate from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in 2011 & is a Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Physical Therapy. Liesa’s passion for helping others extends into her private life. She has volunteered as a Call Rape Advocate and Salvation Army Volunteer. Her passion for travel has led her to teach & treat overseas in Australia, New Zealand, Turkey, the Arab Emirates & Mexico, in addition to organizing & participating in mission work in Mexico, Ukraine & Palestine. Liesa’s wide range of clinical experience, organizational leadership, proficient teaching skills, motivation to improve the standard of care, & enthusiasm & passion for her field, make her an exciting & compelling instructor.

Target audiences

  • OT/Assistant/Student
  • PT/Assistant/Student
$52.00