Evaluating Novel Manual Therapies for the Treatment of Lower Extremity Dysfunction and Pathology: A Dissertation of Clinical Practice Improvement

The Dissertation of Clinical Practice Improvement (DoCPI) is the pinnacle product of the University of Idaho’s Doctor of Athletic Training program and serves as a representation of growth as an advanced scholarly clinician. Through the introduction of concepts such as action research (AR), evidence-based practice (EBP), and practice-based evidence (PBE), the foundations for advanced practice are established. Evidence of advanced practice is achieved through the collection of patient outcomes and dissemination of results. With a focus on lower extremity dysfunction and pathology, two manuscript reviews of novel treatment techniques are included in this comprehensive document. In addition to collecting and analyzing patient outcomes, advanced clinical practice is also achieved through participation in multi-site research. Following an exhaustive review of the literature summarized in two Critically Appraised Topic (CAT) manuscripts, an a priori research study was performed to identify the effects of a novel treatment technique on alleviating apparent hamstring tightness.doctoral, D.A.T., Movement & Leisure Sciences -- University of Idaho - College of Graduate Studies, 201