Ottawa Ankle & Foot Rules EXPLAINED

The video tutorial explains the Ottawa ankle and foot rules, which are criteria used to determine the necessity of radiography before physical therapy treatment, especially when a fracture is suspected. It details shared criteria for both ankle and foot, specific criteria for each, and important considerations such as age limitations. The rules are highly sensitive but have low specificity, meaning they are better at ruling out fractures than confirming them.

What is the primary purpose of the Ottawa ankle and foot rules?

• To determine the need for surgery

• To assess the severity of a sprain

• To decide if radiography is necessary

• To evaluate muscle strength

Which of the following is a shared criterion for both ankle and foot rules?

• Pain in the 5th metatarsal

• Bony tenderness at the navicular

• Inability to bear weight immediately after injury

• Tenderness along the fibula

What indicates a need for radiography according to the ankle-specific criteria?

• Tenderness at the base of the 5th metatarsal

• Inability to walk on toes

• Bony tenderness along the distal 6 cm of the fibula

• Swelling in the ankle

Where should you check for bony tenderness in the foot-specific criteria?

• On the lateral malleolus

• Along the distal 6 cm of the tibia

• On the Achilles tendon

• At the base of the 5th metatarsal

Why is it important to palpate the entire distal 6 cm of the tibia and fibula?

• To assess ligament flexibility

• To avoid missing any potential fractures

• To check for muscle tenderness

• To ensure accurate measurement of swelling

What is the age applicability of the Ottawa ankle and foot rules?

• Only valid for individuals over 21

• Only valid for individuals under 18

• Only valid for individuals over 18

• Applicable to all age groups

What is the average sensitivity of the Ottawa ankle and foot rules?

• 50%

• 98%

• 32%

• 75%