THE COHEN INDEX: DIAGNOSTIC AND PREDICTIVE PERFORMANCE ENHACEMENT TOOL
The Cohen Index is a diagnostic and predictive performance enhancement tool developed by Dr. Lee S. Cohen and utilized by the sports medicine podiatry expert team of physicians and athletic trainers at Dr. Lee S. Cohen and Associates. This systematic tool is designed to identify, diagnose, treat, and prevent injuries affecting the feet, ankles, legs, knees, hips, and lower back in athletes and active individuals of all ages.
The Cohen Index comprises an evaluation consisting of 15 lower-body assessments, which are detailed below. Each assessment is made up of several factors relevant to its specific area of focus. Findings that are deemed abnormal are assigned using a point system.
Upon completing the assessments, the points from the evaluated factors are totaled. These assessments facilitate the identification and diagnostic process while also serving as indicators of risk factors for individuals who may be at a higher risk of injury and/or suboptimal performance.
Tim O’Donnell, ATC demonstrating The Cohen Index portion of a high school cheer athlete’s biomechanical examination.
The 15 assessments included in the Cohen Index are as follows:
1. Stance Posture Assessment
2. Limb Length Assessment
3. Core Strength Assessment
4. Hip Assessment
5. Hamstring Assessment
6. Quadriceps Assessment
7. Knee Assessment
8. Calf Assessment
9. Lower Leg Assessment
10. Heel Position Assessment
11. General Foot Type Assessment
12. Forefoot Position Assessment
13. 1st Metatarsal Phalangeal (Big Toe) Joint Assessment
14. Gait Assessment
15. Orthotic Selection (adjusted to fit the diagnosis and treatment program recommendations)
The Cohen Index, part of the Dr. Lee S. Cohen and Associates comprehensive biomechanical examination process, is a vital resource for enhancing athlete performance and injury management.
To learn more about Dr. Cohen and his award-winning team of sports medicine podiatry specialists, visit https://www.drleecohen.com/our-specialists.
To schedule your biomechanical examination, call (610)-522-9200 or visit www.drleecohen.com/contact.