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Vestibular Rehab & Balance Training

Karen Hogan-Curran, PT, DPT

According to the Vestibular Disorders Association, over 90 million Americans age 17 and older, have experienced a dizziness or balance problem at some point in their lives. Almost 8 million people in the US have a problem with balance that has lasted over 3 months and 2.5 million report a chronic dizziness problem. With the large amount of baby boomers entering "retirement age", there is increased concern about falling. Most people over the age of 70 report some problem with dizziness and balance and balance-related falls account for more than one-half of the accidental deaths in the elderly. In addition, individuals with a diagnosed vestibular problem who also exhibit symptoms have an incidence of falling that is 12 times that of the general population. Overall, the cost of medical care for patients with balance disorders exceeds $1 billion per year in the US. Getting effective treatment is frequently complicated by the challenge of diagnosing the specific source of the problem and finding clinicians with the knowledge and experience to treat these problems.This interactive workshop will cover the anatomy, physiology and function of the vestibular system and the vestibular system's important role in balance and mobility. It is designed to give therapists and clinicians basic essential information needed to assess and treat uncomplicated vestibular dysfunction as well as incidence, diagnosis and treatment of balance related disorders. Attendees will learn the various types of...

Rehabilitative Tai Chi for Chronic Back Pain

Brian Trzaskos, PT, LMT, CSCS, CMP, MI-C

The Georgetown University Health Policy Institute reports that 65 million Americans report experiencing low back pain, while health economists estimate that the cost of chronic pain in the United States is $635 billion annually. Back pain is the leading cause of lost work days and has a high correlation to feelings of emotional distress. Current research is revealing the broad ineffectiveness of long-term pharmaceutical approaches and strongly suggests that successfully treating the multifactorial nature of chronic back pain requires an integrative, holistic approach. Tai Chi is a widely recognized mind-body modality and non-pharmacological approach in treating chronic pain conditions. This highly insightful 2-hour course has been designed to outline the scientific and physiologic basis of key rehabilitative Tai Chi components, to instruct simple Tai Chi practices shown to be effective in remediating back pain and dysfunction, and to review the evidence base for validating rehabilitative Tai Chi in the treatment of patients dealing with chronic back pain.Highlights Practice 10, easy-to-use rehabilitative Tai Chi strategies that can be applied immediately in patient care Effectively validate the evidence-based benefits of Tai Chi in rehabilitation to even the most resistant patients and colleagues

The Latest Integrative Research and Approaches in the Successful Treatment of Chronic Pain Conditions

Brian Trzaskos, PT, LMT, CSCS, CMP, MI-C

The National Institute for Health reports that 25.3 million Americans live with chronic pain, while health economists estimate that the cost of chronic pain in the United States is $635 billion annually. Current research is revealing the broad ineffectiveness of pharmaceutical strategies and strongly suggests that successfully treating the multifactorial nature of chronic pain requires an integrative, holistic approach including attention on key emotional, psychological, and behavioral factors. Integrative approaches including Tai Chi, breath-work, graded movement and mindfulness are widely recognized body- mind modalities and research supported, non- pharmacological approaches in treating chronic pain conditions.This course has been designed to outline the scientific and physiologic basis of key body- mind components, instruct simple integrative practices shown to be effective in remediating chronic pain, and review the evidence base for validating these approaches in the treatment of patients dealing with chronic pain conditions.Highlights Consistently improve painful symptoms, even in long standing issues Understand the coupled nature of emotional, psychological, and behavioral factors in dealing with chronic pain Immediately apply novel treatment approaches that organically increase patient referrals

Unusual Cases in Rehab Series: Lumbar Spine, Hip, and Shoulder

This course is a unique opportunity to work through several challenging cases in the rehabilitation setting. Participants will work through cases to learn more about various diagnoses and injuries in the lumbar spine, hip, and shoulder. Participants will have the opportunity to make their own diagnoses as they are guided through the differential diagnosis process that the author considers throughout the rehab process. At the end of the case, the course will review current evidence for the rehabilitation management of them. This course will sharpen your clinical critical thinking skills and deepen your assessment approach to uncommon injuries of the hips and shoulders.Highlights Immediately improve your ability to apply clinical reasoning in rehabilitation management to the orthopedic patient with uncommon injuries to the spine, hip, and shoulder Clinically applicable strategies for managing orthopedic injuries including differential diagnosis considerations Unique case studies to improve your approach to unusual injuries

Trauma-Informed Rehabilitation

Brian Trzaskos, PT, LMT, CSCS, CMP, MI-C

The National Council on Behavioral Health estimates that 70% of all Americans, 223 Million people, have experienced significant trauma at least once in their lives. Trauma, whether deemed psychological, emotional, or physical has been definitively linked to increased rates of chronic diseases including COPD, Heart Disease, chronic pain, chronic fatigue, anxiety, and depression, as well as statistically decreased work performance. Regardless of degree, past trauma experiences play a pivotal role in a person’s capacity to effectively engage and succeed in rehabilitation. With current data revealing the broad prevalence of trauma, the most effective clinicians now know that client trauma histories must be considered the rule rather than the exception in creating inclusive, compassionate, and holistic treatment plans This course will teach participants how to immediately integrate the 5 core principles of trauma-informed care into both their work environments and client engagements. This training will reveal the hidden impacts of trauma on the brain, emotions, and physiology while introducing participants to holistic, trauma-sensitive treatment approaches that can be used effectively with any client population. Following this course, clinicians will have the knowledge to quickly adopt strategies that foster trust, empower client choices, and markedly improve patient outcomes.Highlights Immediately apply the 5 core principles of trauma-informed care to foster trust, promote ...

Kinesiology Taping for the Hand and Wrist

Catherine Valentino, OTD, OTR/L, MHSc, MAAL, BS, FMT

Kinesiology taping has become a main-stream approach to numerous diagnoses and functional deficits. This course will explore a combination application and functional facilitation approach to improve outcomes and client satisfaction with a number of complications. There will be guided video application as well as follow-through reasoning on approach techniques. We will examine the use of kinesiology tape for symptom management and objective gains in order to produce measurable outcomes for our clientele. A variety of techniques and taping products will be presented to give therapists many options of what is both available to treat their patients, and how to best use the tape and techniques. Attendees will be guided through clinical options for taping techniques to apply the next day in their clinic. Objective motion, strength, and edema management as well as subjective symptoms management will be addressed for a holistic approach to client needs. Participants will take away an improved understanding of documentation language and skill application to promote effective documentation and patient communication.Highlights Application process and techniques for kinesiology taping of the forearm, wrist, and hand Improve your knowledge and critical thinking for application and functional facilitation

Transitioning to Telehealth

Elizabeth Abadiotakis, OTD, OTR/L

There has been an overwhelming demand for telehealth services to reduce barriers to accessing care during the recent pandemic. The skills needed by therapists to implement telehealth are now a requirement. This course will prepare therapists for immediate implementation of telehealth services through analysis of legal compliance with telehealth laws, assessment of appropriate model of communication and implementation of effective telehealth intervention.Highlights Expand your assessment and treatment into the Telehealth model of service delivery Providing effective care via Telehealth while continuing to improve outcomes Legal compliance and reimbursement tips Screening tool to determining use of telehealth Checklists to prepare for sessions for both adults and pediatric clients

Return to School and Sport Considerations for Concussion Rehabilitation

Lenore Herget, DPT, SCS, MEd, CSCS

Too often, a patient is seen after sustaining a concussion and given little to no guidance with regards to how to effectively and safely return to school and sport without excessive symptom provocation. These patients frequently show symptoms well beyond the typical timeline, as they have missed out on proper rehabilitation opportunities and potentially have developed secondary signs and symptoms related to prolonged removal from school and sport, such as psychosocial dysfunction and deconditioning. Rehabilitative clinicians now are involved with these patient's care from diagnosis to full recovery. This course will briefly address the multi-system involvement, not limited to oculomotor, vestibular, orthopaedic and cardiovascular, in the assessment and rehabilitation of the concussed athlete. The complexity of how each of these systems contributes to impairments and functional limitations will be reviewed. The most up to date research on evidence-based assessment tools will be presented as well as best practice tools for rehabilitation. This workshop will arm the clinician with tips to minimize symptoms in each domain to allow the student to return to school related activities earlier and minimize days lost from school. Additionally, the clinician will understand the importance of and instruction of a step wise progression of exercises from each individual system involved, to functional progressions of exercises, to eventual sport specific and non-contact sport related skills...

Sports Rehab

William Oswald, PT, DPT, OCS

Participation in sport and exercise is an essential part of health at all life stages, with benefits for physical, mental, and social well-being. However, participation in sport and exercise-related activities carries an inherent risk of injury. This webinar will help minimize the burden and long-term consequences of sport and exercise-related musculoskeletal injures. Participants will be able to assess and provide evidence-based, patient-centered management strategies for the most common sport injuries.Highlights Review relevant and most recent sports injury research Practical assessment strategies you can use for sport injuries the next day Effective, evidence-based interventions for the most common sport injuries

Introductory Spanish for the Rehabilitation Professional

Andrew Morgan, PT, DPT, MBA, COS-C

The 2016 census reported that roughly 53 million people in the United States speak Spanish, and of those, roughly 16.2 million individuals report limited English proficiency.These patients, those with limited-English proficiency, are among the highest risk for medical errors due to an inability to communicate past medical history and current problems to providers. This course will provide easy to use vocabulary and terminology allowing therapists to complete a basic therapy evaluation and basic therapy treatments using Spanish.Highlights Immediately apply course material to communicate with Spanish-speaking patients in their preferred language Practical and relevant vocabulary presented in an approachable and usable manner

Evaluation of the Shoulder Complex

S. Chris Owens PT, ScD, OCS, CSCS, FAAOMPT

The prevalence of shoulder pain in the general population is estimated as being between 15 and 20%. It is the second most common reason for individuals with musculoskeletal seeking treatment from general medical practitioners. Clinicians are faced with the challenge of performing a timely, comprehensive examination that provides the necessary information for the development of a clear plan of care for patients and clients. Once the examination is complete, clinicians must choose the best evidence-based interventions. This course will assist clinicians with prioritizing examination tests and measures by presenting recent diagnosis related research for the shoulder complex. A case-based clinical reasoning approach will provide participants with the ability to clearly communicate findings with patients and colleagues. Clinicians with all levels of experience and expertise will be able to effectively categorize patients with shoulder dysfunction into clear treatment-based categories to facilitate effective treatment.Highlights Provide a 15-minute systematic examination that includes differential diagnosis for the shoulder complex Rapid examination processes for assigning patients to effective treatment-based categories Acquire the most reliable and relevant clinical information with minimal tests and measures and special tests Valid systematic approaches to interpreting complex clinical problems Communication tools to effectively collaborate with all treatment team members, inclu...

Treating the Shoulder in the Adolescent Athlete

Paul Frizelle, PT, DPT, MS, OCS, MTC, CSCS, PES, CES

Young athletes sustain a significant amount of injuries participating in sports. The unique nature of the adolescent musculoskeletal system requires developing an understanding of the physical/physiological differences between adolescent and adult athletes. Effective management of these athletes in the rehabilitation setting demands the practitioner understands both how and why these athletes need to be treated differently than adults. This course will help the clinician to develop an understanding of the adolescent musculoskeletal system. It will also address commonly encountered shoulder injuries in the adolescent athlete and how to best manage these injuries to help the athlete successfully return to their sport.Highlights Immediately increase your understanding of the adolescent musculoskeletal system and how it differs from the adult athlete Practical strategies to treat common shoulder injuries in the young athlete

Evidence-Based Shoulder Rehabilitation

Eric Bellm, PT, DPT, OCS

The shoulder is a complex body region that is also the most mobile joint in the body. When treating the shoulder, clinicians must choose between mobility, stability, and flexibility interventions along with making sure to properly dose them. This course will discuss the evidence-based rehabilitation stages of treating the shoulder to help clinicians best use their time. Participants will review the evidence behind the mobility treatment, EMG studies, and strength and conditioning principles we use to help them best treat their patients. At the end of the course, participants will have improved treatment progression skills they can use the next day in the clinic.Highlights Improve stability, mobility, and flexibility through different stages of shoulder rehabilitation Review the evidence behind mobility treatments, EMG studies, and strength and conditioning principles Rehabilitation techniques including more in-depthreview and practice of proper dosage for most common injuries/dysfunctions

Treating Shoulder Pain

Dr. Darren Smith, PT, DPT

The lifetime prevalence of shoulder pain is approximately67% with data suggesting these numbers continue to increase. Furthermore, data demonstrates a 50% patient recovery rate over 12-18 months with about half of patients experiencing recurrence within a year. This webinar will present how to analyze scapular dysfunction focusing on anatomical considerations to optimize patient outcomes. These include, but are not limited to, the contributions of muscle-length relationships and motor control in shoulder impairments. This course will outline how to analyze scapular impairments and provide corrective exercises. These techniques will be presented in a way that will allow you to immediately incorporate these concepts into your practice.Highlights Immediately improve your client's functional shoulder outcomes using practical treatment techniques Practical assessment and re-assessment strategies to treat common syndromes of the shoulder

Strength and Conditioning Principles for Rehabilitation and Performance

Joseph Villena, PT, MPT, OCS, CSCS, COMT

Developing an exercise program is one of the core strategies used by rehabilitation professionals to provide treatment for their patients. These exercise programs can vary widely based on the target population and the respective activities that these patients are trying to return to. This innovative 2-hour course provides the rehabilitation professional with a fundamental knowledge of strength and conditioning principles, exercise science, and evidence- based practice. Understanding these combined concepts would allow the practitioner to utilize sound clinical reasoning when developing appropriate exercises and treatment progressions for successful outcomes in rehabilitation.Highlights Develop sound clinical reasoning for exercise programming using a combination of strengthand conditioning principles, exercise science, and evidence- based practice Immediately apply practical and effective strategies to develop appropriate exercises and progressions for successful outcomes in rehabilitation

Running Biomechanics

Joseph Villena, PT, MPT, OCS, CSCS, COMT

Research shows that up to 40 million people run regularly in the United States alone with more than 10 million people running at least 100 days a year. Running is one of the world’s most popular exercises because of its low cost, easy accessibility, and its effectiveness in providing multiple health benefits. Despite these many advantages, it comes with a high risk of injury with as much as two thirds of runners sustaining at least one injury during a year. The expectations for rehab professionals who treat running injuries is to utilize an evidence-based approach for evaluating and determining appropriate exercises and progressions for treatment. This innovative 1-hour course will help participants expand their clinical skills and knowledge of basic running biomechanics.Participants will be able to provide appropriate treatment strategies that not only help their patients return to running, but also optimize their running performance.Highlights Develop a thorough understanding of running biomechanics to help you identify major impairments during the gait cycle and its implications for treatment Strengthen your clinical decision making when determining appropriate exercise progressions based on your run analysis Obtain alternative treatment tools such as a return to run algorithm, run/walk interval program, and cadence modification training to help your patient safely and effectively return to running after an injury Immediately apply effective treatment and training te...

Strength Training in Geriatric Rehabilitation

Paul Frizelle PT DPT, MS, OCS, MTC, AIB-VR, CSCS, PES, CES

Sarcopenia (muscular atrophy related to aging and sedentary lifestyle) is one of the most common geriatric syndromes compromising the function of up to 40% of the aging population. Sarcopenia contributes to decreased gait speed, reduced grip strength, increased fall risk, and functional decline. This muscular dysfunction is best treated through the prescription of progressive resistance exercise. The individuals best positioned in the health care system to treat this health issue are rehabilitation professionals, especially those who are encountering these individuals while managing injury, illness, or long-term declines in function. This webinar will improve your understanding of how to prescribe strength training for the geriatric patient. Participants will learn how to immediately apply these strategies to improve functional tasks like stair negotiation, walking endurance, bed mobility, and transfers. Differences in types of strength prescription and types of strength exercises will be defined to help understand the application in rehabilitation. Attendees will be able to immediately take this information and apply it in their existing rehabilitation programs to improve the outcomes for their patients.Highlights Accurately prescribe strength training for your geriatric patients Functional exercise for strength vs. exercise to build strength levels

Building Patient Rapport and Compliance

Katie O'Shea, PT, DPT, MBA, GCS, CDP, CCRP

Extensive studies have shown the benefit and impact of trust in the client-patient relationship. However, rapport goes a long way with other members of the care and management teams. Such attention is given during our academic years to all we need to know clinically, that sometimes the people connection skills are missed or assumed to develop once in clinical practice. Without the ability to connect with patients, coworkers, or management; therapists can find themselves frustrated, feeling disconnected, and limited in their career advancement options. This course will provide an overview of what rapport is and is not, and how this impacts communication. Participants will learn strategies that can be immediately applied to their interactions as well as building rapport in strained relationships.Highlights Learn 5 practical and easy strategies that can be implemented immediately to improve communication with patients, peers, and supervisors Improve your understanding of the emotional roadblocks faced by patients and develop effective strategies to progress your plan of care

Post-COVID-19 Syndrome

Catherine Lewan, PT, DPT

Increasing numbers of Corona Virus Disease 2019(COVID-19) survivors of all ages are reporting chronic or "long-haul" symptoms that require skilled rehabilitation to restore function and quality of life. Some studies indicate that 87% will have at least one lingering symptom at 2 months post virus, even if acute symptoms of the coronavirus were mild. The most reported long-term symptoms have the potential to thwart rehab efforts unless properly addressed:fatigue, dyspnea, tachycardia, exercise intolerance, "brain fog"/cognitive effects, sleep disturbances, cough, and chronic pain. These persisting phenomena are often seen in patients with chronic syndromes. Corresponding neuro-immune physiological adaptations are well-documented to heighten sensitivity of mechanisms intended to protect in times of distress, eventually outlasting their usefulness. This intermediate level workshop will review evolving research onPost-COVID-19 Syndrome, as well as more established data on similar chronic symptoms and pertinent neuro-immune physiology. Potential treatment options and case studies will be explored to facilitate participants’ confidence in identification and management of post-COVID-19 sequelae.Highlights Recognize your client/patient’s symptoms as post-COVID-19 sequelae and modify assessment and treatment techniques to improve outcomes Immediately implement treatment techniques for Post- COVID-19 Syndrome to improve functional capacity and quality of life

Optimal Rehab and Performance of the Overhead Athlete

Joseph Villena, PT, MPT, OCS, CSCS, COMT

An overhead athlete can be defined as an athlete that performs repeated sports-related activities in an overhead position. This can encompass numerous sports involving typical throwing motions like baseball or football to sports that require high degrees of overhead acceleration and velocity like volleyball and tennis. An overhead athlete may also play a sport that requires high levels of upper extremity power like gymnastics or Olympic weightlifting. It is imperative that health care providers that treat overhead athletes have a thorough understanding of overhead sports biomechanics, knowledge of appropriate evidence-based assessments, and a strong foundation in exercise prescription concepts to properly rehabilitate this particular athletic population. This comprehensive 2-hour course will help attendees expand their clinical skills and knowledge to effectively treat the overhead athlete, prepare them for return to sport, and help them optimize their athletic performance.Highlights Develop a thorough understanding of the basic biomechanics of the overhead athlete to identify major impairments and improve your assessment and treatment strategies Utilize evidence-based testing to determine if a patient is ready to return to sport Immediately apply practical and effective exercises to not only help resolve your patient’s symptoms and impairments, but improve their overall sports performance

Evidence-Based Upper Quarter Orthopaedics

Richard Hubler, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT

Therapists commonly evaluate and treat patients with upper quarter neuromusculoskeletal pathologies. This course will provide attendees with a thorough review of the commonly seen orthopaedic conditions of the upper quarter. In addition, evidence-based interventions will be introduced and discussed to facilitate patient management skills and improved ADLs. Current evidence will be synthesized to give attendees guidance on effective upper quarter orthopaedic examination and intervention strategies.Highlights Review common upper extremity neuromusculoskeletal conditions Effective therapeutic management strategies of the four main upper extremity regions (cervical, shoulder, elbow, and wrist/hand) Practical assessment and intervention strategies for orthopaedic conditions of the upper extremity

Neck Pain

William Oswald, PT, DPT, OCS

The cervical spine presents unique challenges to rehabilitation professionals because of the varied and complex presentation of patients with cervical spine pain. Evaluation and treatment approaches vary amongst clinicians and can be improved by incorporating the current best evidence into clinical practice. This course will provide professionals with the knowledge needed to properly evaluate and treat patients with symptoms commonly found in the cervical spine.Highlights Immediately improve your examination and treatment strategies for the cervical spine Incorporate the current best evidence into the treatment of cervical spine pathologies Effective, evidence-based interventions for a common diagnosis

Utilizing Movement Analysis for Exercise Prescription: Part 1

Chad Hensel, PT, DPT, MHS, CSCS

In these times of changing health care, it is common to have less time/visits with our patients. The challenge to the clinician is continuing to provide excellent quality care, assess problems, and meet goals within this new clinical environment. Analyzing movement patterns is an excellent tool in determining problems and optimizing functional outcomes. Movement analysis is a crucial component of any rehab program, but proficiency requires practice. This course is designed to provide the clinician practice to augment their ability to provide proficient movement analysis. Detailed anatomy examination is incorporated into this course as the participant looks at examples of exercises and functional activities from the vantage point of the muscular system. Video examples will be a primary teaching method in this program.Highlights Practice and review movement analysis scenarios with key actions of the major muscle groups in the body Determine correct analysis and design of more efficient treatment plan selections Optimize movement analysis skills into your practice through practice case examples

Effective Manual Therapy Techniques for Mobility Deficits of the Cervical Spine

Matthew Randall, PT, DPT, OCS, MTC, CSCS

Neck pain is a common complaint among the general population and studies indicate that the overall incidence of neck pain is increasing worldwide. Clinicians need up to date, evidence-based, assessment and intervention tools to effectively restore mobility, reduce disability, and teach patients how to maintain optimal function of their neck. This course will outline and demonstrate biomechanical assessments that guide effective hands on mobilization techniques to improve movement/pain relationships.Therapists attending this course will learn these new mobility assessment techniques and implement the skills they learn in this course immediately to improve the lives of their patients.Highlights Practical assessment and reassessment strategies to quickly identify mobility deficits and functional impairments of the cervical spine Immediately improve your patient’s mobility and symptoms using powerful hands on techniques

Functional Active Myofascial Release

Brian Trzaskos, PT, LMT, CSCS, CMP, MI-C

Over 127 million Americans seek complementary and integrative health care services annually and the most successful clinicians know that meeting this growing need offers a huge advantage in generating additional revenue in clinics as well as providing superior quality care. Today's most valuable rehabilitation professionals must have the knowledge and capability to leverage multidimensional aspects of their client's experience to engender faster and more complete results. This highly engaging course will give participants practical body mind assessments and effective myofascial release strategies that can be immediately applied both in the clinic and via telehealth engagements, making them the go-to provider in their community.Highlights Immediately improve your client's functional breath capacity, flexibility, chronic pain symptoms, and ADL function Apply a new holistic assessment tool and easy to-use, self-applied myofascial release movements

3 Key Trigger Point Treatments to Enhance Core Activation

Brian Trzaskos, PT, LMT, CSCS, CMP, MI-C

According to the Global Burden of Disease, low back pain is the single leading cause of disability worldwide with Americans spending at least $50 billon each year on back pain issues. Current research is revealing the broad ineffectiveness of pharmaceutical strategies and strongly suggests that successfully treating the multifactorial nature of back pain requires an integrative approach including the use of neuromuscular manual techniques. In addition, it has been shown that deep core musculature activation is enhanced by normalization of superficial core muscle tone. This workshop will outline the physiologic basis for neuromuscular treatments and instruct key trigger point techniques to help practitioners effectively normalize global muscle tone and initiate deep core muscle activation immediately with their patients.Highlights Immediately improve your clients' low back pain, initiate deep core musculature activation, and increase ADL function

Evidence-Based Evaluation and Treatment of the Lumbar Spine

Matthew Randall PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, MTC, CSCS, CYT-200

Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people see a doctor or miss days of work. Clinicians need up to date, evidence-based, assessment, and intervention tools to effectively treat this common condition. Evolving evidence shows new approaches to identify which patients respond best to certain treatments. Therapists can learn these newer frameworks of assessing and treating the impairments associated with low back pain. This course will outline the latest evidence on the classification approach of patients who present with low back pain, present additional frameworks by which to approach managing this condition, and identify treatment principles to help improve functional outcomes with patients experiencing low back pain. The assessment and reasoning skills gained from this course will allow the clinician to immediately apply evidence-based treatments to their practice setting and improve not only functional outcomes but patient satisfaction.Highlights Effective, evidence-based assessment tools to diagnose patients with low back pain Immediately improve your clinical reasoning skills to identify the most effective treatments for each patient

Latest Evidence for Knee Rehabilitation

Alex Siyufy DPT, ATC, SCS, Cert. MDT, Cert. DN

Do you know which taping techniques are most effective to address Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)? This course is designed to provide the clinician with an understanding of the current research findings for Knee Rehabilitation. This will be a blend of strategies that incorporates an evidence-based approach via taping (McConnell, Mulligan, and kinesiology taping techniques) along with appropriate exercises and modalities. While the focus will be on PFPS, other appropriate interventions for post-op TKA, ACL rehab, and other conditions will be highlighted. Over the past several years, there has been new research related to the rehabilitation ofKnee conditions. This course will summarize this into a high- level view of these evidence-based findings. Additionally, each participant will receive a summary table of kinesiology taping research over the past 10 years. The techniques taught can be implemented into practice with patients, clients, and athletes immediately.Highlights Recent advances in Therapeutic taping techniques for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) Evidence-based parameters to be used with E-Stim Application of evidence-based exercises for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) Resources with an evidence-based review of kinesiology taping research

Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation Update

Catherine Lewan, PT, DPT

Most people will develop symptoms of pelvic floor, bowel, or bladder dysfunction during their lifetime. It is likely that many of your current patients are in need of pelvic rehab and would see meaningful improvement with your assistance... even if you are not a pelvic health specialist. This course updates the clinician's toolbox to include external strategies to improve outcomes in bladder urgency, urge incontinence, frequency of micturition, and constipation for pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients. Evidence-informed use of neuromodulatory e-stim will be explored, including transcutaneous strategies (TENS) and Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation (PTNS.) Participants will be able to implement evidence-based strategies to improve bowel and bladder function in a variety of settings to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.Highlights Update your clinical toolbox beyond Kegels to improve urinary urgency, frequency, and constipation in your patient population Neuromodulation techniques to improve functional outcomes for patients of all ages with bowel and bladder symptoms

Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders

Catherine Lewan, PT, DPT

Historically, hypermobility has been underdiagnosed in children and adults, resulting in decreased efficacy of treatment, functional limitation and disability that can be frustrating for both patients and clinicians who do not have the specific tools necessary for identification and management of hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD.) It is estimated that 20% or more of the population is hypermobile, which is associated with musculoskeletal injury, proprioceptive deficits, and persistent pain; neurological anomalies and neuroimmune upregulation; visceral and cardiovascular dysfunction; gastrointestinal distress and decreased quality of life and functional capacity. Rehab specialists who take this intermediate-level workshop will be able to identify hypermobility spectrum disorders and associated comorbidities and initiate treatment strategies critical to improving functional outcomes. Participants will benefit from didactic learning as well as case studies and practicum that will be immediately applicable to a variety of patient populations and settings.Highlights Current terminology and diagnostic criteria for hypermobility spectrum disorders based on the 2017International Consortium Classification Effective strategies for improving functional outcomes in hypermobile patients

Evaluation of the Hip Complex

Chris Owens, PT, ScD, OCS, CSCS, FAAOMPT

Hip pain is a common complaint among patients in a wide variety of clinical settings. Clinicians are faced with the challenge of implementing effective evidence-based interventions for the hip despite there being high levels of uncertainty about the origin of pain in this region. This uncertainty is further complicated by the fact that multiple structures can cause pain in this region. A systematic and concise process for clinical examination is essential for appropriate management of this challenging patient population. This course will assist clinicians with prioritizing examination tests and measures by presenting a tissue specific approach to clinical examination of the hip. Clinicians will be provided with a systematic examination approach that will allow them to categorize patients quickly and effectively. A case-based clinical reasoning approach will provide participants with the ability to clearly communicate findings with patients and colleagues.Highlights Provide a 15-minute systematic examination that includes differential diagnosis for the hip region Use the rapid examination process to assign patients to effective treatment-based categories Review the most reliable and relevant clinical information regarding minimal tests and measures and special tests A systematic approach to interpreting complex clinical problems

Examining Evidence-Based Treatment Options for Common Hip Pathology

Dr. Jeff Rogge, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT, CMTPT

In order to effectively treat a patient presenting with groin pain, we first need to understand what characteristics lead to the initial development of this painful condition. This course will take you through risk factors for development, movement characteristics, objective/subjective findings within this patient population, and how to organize your evaluation. Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome is a complicated, and misunderstood pathology. This course will take you through the associated patient characteristics, evaluation findings, and radiological criteria needed for an accurate diagnosis. Participants will also discuss the current literature regarding both conservative and surgical management of this patient population. At the end of this discussion, participants will understand what the subjective history and special testing can tell us, and what it cannot. Participants will leave this course with a full understanding of how this condition is best managed as a syndrome.Highlights Confidently distinguish between intra-articular and extra- articular hip conditions Effective evidence-based treatment interventions based off the latest research Hands-on treatments you can use the next day Pairing corrective exercise with manual therapy techniques to aid in further recovery

Differential Diagnosis of Headaches Post Concussion

Cristin Beazley, PT, DPT, CBIS

Concussion is a common injury that is often poorly identified and poorly managed. It can occur with a variety of mechanisms and affects all ages. These injuries can recover on their own but often (10-30%) of individuals will have persistent symptoms. There are a variety of symptoms that can be present after a concussive injury and often headache is one of the most common. Research has shown that individualized treatment results in the best outcomes secondary to the multiple systems that are impacted after these injuries.1 A challenge to concussion management is that none of the symptoms that are often reported are unique to the injury itself. It is essential that clinicians who work with client's post-concussion have a clear understanding of the variety of possible contributing factors to the symptom presentation so that they can create a targeted plan of intervention. This individualized plan and understanding will ensure optimal patient outcomes.This course will highlight the variety of physiological impairments and systems that can contribute to headache presentation. We will review differential diagnosis as well as targeted interventions to achieve optimal outcomes and patient recovery. The course will present a variety of strategies as well as case studies to help support differential diagnosis strategy. There will also be objective measures including questionnaires, assessments of the cervical spine, vestibular/oculomotor systems, and evaluation of the autonomic nervous...

Cervicogenic Headache: Evaluation and Treatment Strategies

William Oswald, PT, DPT, OCS

The prevalence of cervicogenic headache has been reported to be as high as 20% of the headache population. The diagnosis of cervicogenic headache can be challenging due to the potential overlap with more serious conditions along with the unique quality and behavior of symptoms. When cervicogenic headaches are assessed systematically, it can become much less daunting. In this course we will provide evaluation and treatment strategies to manage this condition safely and effectively.Highlights Improve your examination and treatment for cervicogenic headaches Review and discuss potential causes of cervical and head symptoms Effective, efficient, evidence-based interventions for headaches related to cervical spine pain

Rehabilitation Considerations for Head and Neck Cancer

Nicole Scheiman, DrOT, MHS, OTR/L, CLT-LANA, CES, CKTP, CEES-Advanced, CSST, CDCS, CORE

In the United States, the incidence of HPV-driven oropharyngeal cancer has increased by 225% since the late 1980s, putting the United States at the epicenter of this emerging epidemic. As a result, rehabilitation professionals are seeing an increase in clients with comorbidities stemming from medical interventions for head and neck cancers. Increased incidence paired with highly successful medical treatments is resulting in more individuals needing the services of rehabilitation professionals. Our services are vital throughout the treatment trajectory in order to provide prevention of co-morbidities as well as treatment of side- effects. We are charged with providing these individuals with safe and effective client-driven treatment techniques to restore and improve quality of life.This course will assist practitioners to understand the anatomy involved in head and neck cancers along with the advanced medical interventions individuals with head and neck cancer receive and the related side-effects. Participants will learn potential rehabilitation needs of individuals with head and neck cancer and various treatment options to improve their quality of life. An introduction to various outcome measures will also be discussed.Highlights Recognize acute and long-term side effects of medical treatments for head and neck cancers that may impact your client's quality of life Provide safe and effective treatment options for individuals receiving medical interventions for head and neck ca...

Hand Therapy

Catherine Valentino, OTR/L, OTD, MHSc, MAAL, BS

Hand therapy is an incredibly personal and complex area for rehabilitation professionals and patients alike. Hamasaki et al. (2018) highlight this complexity in their study emphasizing the interdependence of both motor and sensory aspects of functioning to impact pain reports for hand therapy patients. Having effective plans of care means developing comfort as a therapist to assess, thoroughly, a patient's pain and choose the best courses of intervention to achieve his or her goals. This course will assist therapists in developing their skills in testing differential diagnosis and developing an understanding of pathology leading to dysfunction. This course will be a good foundation course for new hand therapists and a refresher for those looking to review needed information. Additionally, each therapist will leave with testing and treatment recourses which they can apply in the clinic the next day. Physical and psychological factors related to rehabilitation will be considered during this course. Attendees will be able to identify tests needed for a number of differential diagnoses to enhance patient care and their knowledge as it relates to hand therapy preparation. Nerve entrapment in addition to physical dysfunction will be addressed as often these two components are appearing hand in hand for our upper quadrant clients. Participants will be able to select appropriate functional evaluations to bridge physical dysfunctional and psychological impact to develop more effective...

ACSM Guidelines for Exercise for Special Populations

Julie Barnett, PT, DPT, MTC

Prescribing exercise safely under the American College ofSports Medicine (ACSM) guidelines is very important for special populations. Individuals recovering from COVID-19 will require specialized exercise guidance using our backgrounds as therapists in exercise and pathology to make the best evidenced-based recommendations for their health. The 50,000 ACSM professionals in sports medicine and exercise science fields share a common purpose – advance health through science, education, and medicine. The details are important. Guidelines and realistic goals can motivate and guide your treatments for your patients to reach their activity goals. This course will guide you through theACSM guidelines and criteria for special populations. Participants will review the most impactful exercise prescriptions and outcomes instruments to measure physical activity. After the completion of this course, therapists will be better equipped to confidently treat special populations with positive outcomes.Highlights ACSM purpose for exercise guidelines and the criteria for special populations Effectively incorporate more exercise into your treatments Best practices for outcome instruments to use when measuring physical activity Review popular wearable tracking devices to assist in motivating patients

Optimizing Functional Movement

Lori Duncan, DPT, MTC, CPT

As therapists, optimizing functional movement is a high concern to keep our patients healthy, active, safe, and independent. It is imperative to not put patients in the "old box" (or any box for that matter) and understand that every human body wants to feel the best it can at any age. This workshop will teach therapists how to easily evaluate and treat the following movements: thoracic rotation, plank hover, trunk roll-up and squat. Once evaluated, patients and therapists will experience the immediate positive changes in the system including balance, breathing, gait, shoulder health, back health, and functional transfers. This workshop will teach participants how to improve four foundational movements that are critical to master at any age. Through an active easy-to-follow lab, participants will learn how to assess and treat these movements that are easy to teach at any age. Participants will take away modifications and tips to help teach patients the next day how to improve these four functional movements.Highlights Immediately improve your patient’s function, safety, and independence with four specific, easy-to-learn movements through an active lab Strategies to improve breathing, back health, bed transfers, gait, and other ADL’s

Exercise in Geriatric Rehabilitation

Nicole Dawson, PT, PhD, GCS

The latest practice analysis identifies over 53% of rehabilitation patients are over the age of 65 years. Many of these older adults have functional limitations due to the fact that older adults are generally less physically active than their younger counterparts or due to difficulties returning to normal function following illness or injury. Exercise is a non- pharmacological intervention that can have beneficial effects on multiple domains of function. However, the application of exercise by health care professionals is often under-dosed leading to minimal changes in this patient population. Older adults can pose unique challenges for clinicians due to their sedentary lifestyle and potential for complex medical history. Rehabilitation professionals are experts in movement science and should play an integral role in prescription of appropriate physical activity to ensure maximal levels of success with older adults, so we need to do better for this new majority of patients. This course will provide you with a better understanding of primary aging processes that may affect an older adult's functional status. An evidence-based approach for exercise prescription will be discussed to ensure that exercise science principles are used during plan of care development.Highlights Practical application of exercise prescription in older adults that you can use the next day Effective, evidence-based interventions to ensure positive outcomes in older adults

Examination of the Evidence Behind Rehabilitation Myths in Orthopedic Rehab of the Lower Body

Paul Frizelle, PT, DPT, MS, OCS, MTC, CSCS, PES, CES

The fields of rehabilitation have been primarily driven to use tools that have been taught or espoused by "clinical experts." In the past two decades more resources have been placed towards research in clinically applicable rehabilitation information. Our view has evolved to begin implementing more evidence-based approaches for treating patients. Unfortunately, it often takes long periods for research to become available to the wider audiences. This has left the rehabilitation fields permeated by outdated information and inefficient/ ineffective treatments provided to patients. This course will examine some of the more prevalent myths that still pervade our fields and determine if the current evidence supports these practices. Participants will leave this course with a better understanding of the current research and how to effectively impact functional progress with their patients using evidence-based treatments.Highlights Best available evidence-based research to effectively treat orthopedic rehabilitation patientsReview common myths in rehabilitation that are inaccurate or outdated Easy methods to access and stay up-to-date on the latest available literature and research

Integrating Evidence-Based Practice (EBP)

Jennifer Kinkade OTD, OTR/L

Professional organizations and governing bodies require the use of evidence-based practice (EBP). Although there is a growing expectation that practitioners incorporate evidence into practice, there are many barriers to implementing EBP. Those who use evidence-based interventions have improved client outcomes, quality of services, and job satisfaction. This course will focus on strategies for understanding scholarly articles for any discipline or topic. Participants will learn how to identify relevant evidence through critical appraisal of journal articles. Participants will review tools and resources, and will have hands-on experiences to help overcome barriers and improve use evidence in practice. Through hands-on practice, participants will learn strategies that can be implemented immediately. Each participant will be challenged to reflect on their current use of EBP and develop an action plan.Highlights Effective tools to identify and develop a plan utilizing evidence-based practice (EBP) Practical strategies for integrating evidence- based interventions to improve client outcomes Tools, resources, and hands-on experiences are provided to help overcome barriers and improve use evidence in practice Lower healthcare costs, improve job satisfaction, funding and reimbursement, and increase in quality of services using EBR

Ethics in Physical Therapy Practice

Jason Sims, MSPT, COS-C, SFS, CDP

Physical therapy professionals are regularly confronted with a complex variety of ethical and moral dilemmas. Their course of action can implicate a wide array of professional and personal outcomes. This course will review key documents that supply the foundation for ethical practice by professionals in the physical therapy landscape including the APTA Code of Ethics and Guide for Professional Conduct. Participants will learn about the function of Physical Therapy Committees/Boards governed at a state level, as well as explore the scope of legal and ethical decision making in the physical therapy practice setting.. Challenges to ethical practice will be discussed including common business practices of concern, professional conduct and patients' rights.Highlights Updated information on oversight of ethical practice in physical therapy services Decision-making strategies to resolve challenging situations involving professional conduct and patient rights Ethical guidance for virtual and telehealth scenarios

Peripheral Nerve Entrapments

Paul Frizelle PT DPT, MS, OCS, MTC, AIB-VR, CSCS, PES, CES

The rehabilitation professional is the best positioned individual in the healthcare system to conservatively manage patients with entrapment neuropathies. This course will examine the potential for peripheral nerve entrapments to present in the rehabilitation setting. It will review the anatomy behind the peripheral nerve entrapment, how to identify them in the evaluation process, and how to effectively treat them for full return of function. Entrapment neuropathies are commonly encountered by rehabilitation professionals and are often overlooked as sources of pain and functional limitations. This course will improve your understanding of how to evaluate and identify common patterns for the clinical presentation of an entrapment neuropathy. Participants will learn how to immediately apply these strategies to improve their diagnostic and treatment skills for peripheral entrapment neuropathies. Attendees will be able to immediately take this information and apply it in their existing rehabilitation programs to improve the outcomes for their patients.Highlights Improve your ability to identify common peripheral nerve entrapments in the upper and lower extremity Entrapment neuropathies, manual therapy, and neural mobilization treatment strategies

Telehealth Ergonomics for Healthcare Professionals

For years, the American Physical Therapy Association has been telling us as practitioners: "Telehealth will not replace traditional clinical care - but it will give flexibility to provide services efficiently. Quicker screening, assessment and referral can improve care coordination within collaborative delivery models." They go on to further admit what's now undeniable: "In physical therapy, patients /clients are asking for more time-efficient and less costly care models. Busy lifestyles make it difficult for greater numbers of people to attend traditional BIW / TIW appointments. Applications of telehealth in physical therapy already allows PT's to better communicate with patients / clients and provide more flexible care." These statements were all made prior to the new realities of a post-COVID-19 clinical landscape. Telehealth Ergonomics is a novel approach to computer workstation ergonomic assessment and modification whose time has come - especially with the current pressures made starkly clear by the new COVID-19 reality. This emerging way to work effectively and efficiently will reduce the personal cost of obtaining expert ergonomic assessments and interventions and provide an evidence-based and systematic program of completing ergonomic assessments remotely. It will also offer the scrupulous practitioner a new area of expertise and commerce. It couldn't come at a better time.Highlights Diversify your skillset with strategies to effectively deliver telehealth to your pat...

Dry Needling Evidence-Based Concepts and Essential Skills

John Gwilliam, PT, MHA, CWS, Cert. DN

Dry needling is a practice that has been around for many decades, but over the last 10 years, it has emerged as one of the most effective strategies to address and improve neuromuscular and musculoskeletal dysfunction and pain.With established and emerging evidence, various models and methods have been developed to use this intervention to help reduce pain, improve motion, and restore function. This course will provide participants tools and resources to assist the therapist in determining when and how to utilize dry needling for the benefit of each patient. Participants will review current evidence and best practice recommendations. In addition, participants will be provided an overview of various techniques and approaches for dry needling, including case presentations and outcomes.Highlights Evidence supporting dry needling as an intervention approach to help alleviate musculoskeletal limitations and pain Essential concepts for when and how to incorporate dry needling into the plan of care

Getting it Right: Therapy Prescription and Dosage

Andy Parsons PT, DPT, OCS

Therapists are aware appropriately prescribed exercise programs can have many meaningful benefits to our patients. Unfortunately, many studies show that therapists are often not providing strenuous enough programs to elicit a physiological response that would be sufficient to provide functional change. Considering this, the American Physical Therapy Association identified under dosage as one of the five top problems that needed to change in the Choosing Wisely initiative. Rehab clinicians must maximize dosage each session in a reimbursement environment that demands results in fewer sessions to improve their patients' quality of life. This course will describe practical clinical tools for understanding and maximizing dosage with therapy patients in all settings. Practical assessment and reassessment strategies for loading that you and your patients can implement easily will be explored.Highlights Immediately improve your ability to properly load and progress exercise programs using objective measures and patient response to dictate treatment to promote restored function, strength, and independence in daily activities. Maximize clinical and functional outcomes by implementing new strategies to maximize dosage in a reimbursement environment that demands you get results in a fewer number of sessions Practical assessment and re-assessment strategies for loading that you and your patients can implement easily to maximize functional gains. Integrate learning with engaging case exper...

Nutrition Management for Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

Research shows that protein promotes muscle strength and function. Simple carbohydrates do the opposite. Artificial sweeteners, colors and flavors are even worse when it comes to muscle strength and function. This course will discuss the latest brain research and evidence-based best practices regarding diet and nutrition in patients with Multiple Sclerosis. By understanding how food impacts the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, rehabilitation experts can see improved compliance and response to an overall plan of care. Diet, nutrition, and environmental influences will be covered as well as their role in the focus of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system health.Highlights Confidently address nutrition and general nutritional recommendations set forth by the FDA regarding MultipleSclerosis Enhance your Multiple Sclerosis patient's treatment and recovery by adding a nutritional component to your overall plan of care

Differential Diagnosis Upper Extremity Pathologies and Symptoms

Dr. Rina Pandya, PT, DPT

Therapy is no longer limited to the musculoskeletal system. With the introduction of Direct Access and privately owned clinics and tele rehab, therapists play an important role in screening other body systems to refer patients to appropriate medical providers. This course aims to equip the therapist with tools to differentially diagnose the origin of pain between the musculoskeletal system and involvement of other systemic pathologies. This aids in providing effective timely treatment to the patient, identifying red flags, thus saving time as well as resources. This course is designed to be a handy resource and a guide for everyday clinical situations both for allied health professionals and medical professionals. The course material is detailed and presented with easy to understand facts about both musculoskeletal and systemic causes of upper extremity pain.Highlights Improve your ability to differentially diagnose cervical spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand conditions Effective special tests to discover referred pain patterns and red flags Evidence-based practice approaches and case studies

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy has been utilized in the therapy world since the beginning, yet we still are discovering new methods and effects. This course aims to educate the learner on cryotherapy evidence and enhance the understanding of this often-misunderstood technique. Therapeutic benefits, risks, indications, and contraindications will be reviewed. Lab demonstrations of various application methods will be introduced. Additionally, reimbursement and possible future uses will be discussed.Highlights Effective, evidence-based cryotherapy interventions for multiple problem areas Therapeutic benefits, risks, indications, and contraindications Coding, billing, and reimbursement for cryotherapy Integrate learning to your PT/OT/AT practice through case examples and demonstrations

Cognitive Treatments for Adults

Lisa Young Milliken, MA, CCC-SLP, FNAP, CDP, RAC- CT

As therapists, we are often asked to provide skilled cognitive interventions for clients with a range of diagnoses. Addressing these deficits are critical as they impact multiple areas of function, to include communication, safety strategies, activities of daily living and the overall ability to achieve optimal functional independence. This course was developed to assist rehab professionals with evidence-based interventions to achieve the desired outcomes for a range of cognitive deficits. These strength- based approaches are designed to be practical to include both rehabilitative and compensatory strategies when teaching clients in the areas of different levels of memory, executive function, attention, verbal recall, judgement, and problem solving.Highlights Strategies for implicit vs. explicit memory & learning concepts Dual task training for improved cognitive and motor outcomes Effective cognitive treatment techniques for clients with a variety of disease processes and comorbidities Implement goal writing and objective documentation strategies

Evidence-Based Evaluation and Treatment of the Cervical Spine

Matthew Randall PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, MTC, CSCS, CYT-200

Neck pain is a common complaint among the general population and studies indicate that the overall incidence of neck pain is increasing worldwide. Clinicians need up to date, evidence based, assessment and intervention tools to effectively treat this common condition. Evidence shows that a classification framework to identify which patients respond best to certain treatments results in superior outcomes when compared to a non-classification approach. Therapists can learn these newer models of classifying and treatment of the impairments associated with neck pain. This workshop will outline the various classifications of patients who present with neck pain and identify which interventions are most effective for each stage of the condition. The assessment and reasoning skills gained from this course will allow the clinician to immediately apply evidence based treatments to their practice setting and improve not only functional outcomes but patient satisfaction.Highlights Immediately improve your clinical reasoning skills to identify the most effective treatments for each patient Effective, evidence-based assessment tools to quickly diagnose and classify patients with neck pain

Nutrition Management for Cancer Patients

Jennifer Darby, PT, DPT, GCS, CCN, CPAHA, CEEAA

This course covers emerging research in the interplay between nutrition and cancer, as well as offers into the role of nutrition in three common cancers: breast, colorectal, and prostate. The course stresses advancements in the understanding of carcinogenesis, individualization of nutrition and cancer treatment, and offers an updated take on the role of nutrition during cancer prevention, treatment and survivorship. This course will provide a review of the current relevant literature about cancer and nutrition, as well provide practitioners with an understanding of the central role of nutrition in health and healing. This course provides a scientific basis for the integration of nutrition into the conventional management of cancer, and opportunities to apply information from the literature to interactive clinical scenarios.Highlights Confidently speak with your cancer patients on nutrition and general nutritional recommendations set forth by the FDA Enhance your cancer patient’s treatment and recovery by adding a nutritional component to your overall plan of care

Rehabilitation Considerations for Comprehensive Breast Cancer Care

Nicole Scheiman, DrOT, MHS, OTR/L, CLT-LANA, CKTP, CEES-Advanced, CES, CSST, CDCS, CORE

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, with about 1 in 8 women developing invasive breast cancer over the course of their lifetimes (Breastcancer.org, 2020). Deaths from breast cancer remain the second leading cause of cancer death among women overall (Centers for Disease Control, 2020). About 85% of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history of breast cancer and as of January 2020, there are more than 3.5 million women with a history of breast cancer in the U.S. (Breastcancer.org, 2020). As a result, more rehabilitation professionals are seeing clients with comorbidities stemming from medical interventions for breast cancer. Rehabilitation services are vital throughout the treatment trajectory to provide prevention of co-morbidities as well as treatment of side effects. We are charged with providing these individuals with safe and effective, client-driven treatment techniques to restore and improve quality of life.Highlights Immediately improve your ability to understand acute and long-term side effects of medical treatments for breast cancer that may impact your client’s quality of life Provide safe and effective treatment options for individuals receiving medical intervention for breast cancer

Total Knee/Hip Arthroplasty: The First 72 Hours

Jason Handschumacher, PT, DPT, OCS

Therapists are outnumbered. By 2025, there will be 650,000 Total Hip Replacements and 1.2 million Total Knee Replacements annually in the United States. "Fast tracking",anesthesia advances, minimally invasive procedures and pre-operative planning are maximizing patient lives. This course will teach you how you can best address these patients in your setting and how you can optimize outcomes at the same time. Interact with a dynamic instructor and other therapists so we can work cooperatively ensuring the most functional and cost-effective outcomes.Highlights Pre-operative management, education, planning and coordination Post operative care, treatment focus, and functional progression timelines Fast tracking preoperatively and postoperatively

Evaluation of Inversion Ankle Sprains

Chris Owens, PT, ScD, OCS, CSCS, FAAOMPT

The approximate incidence of ankle sprains in the general US population is 2% per 1,000 at risk persons. The incidence of foot and ankle injuries is much greater for sports participants. Foot and ankle injuries account for 27% of all injuries that result in at least one day of missed sports participation in Division 1 collegiate athletes. Most of these injuries effect the lateral ligamentous structures due to inversion trauma. Inappropriate diagnosis and management of these injuries can lead to chronic pain and dysfunction that may limit sports participation as well as recreational activities. It is imperative that clinicians possess strategies to recognize, manage, and prevent complications related to inversion ankle sprains. This course will assist clinicians with prioritizing examination tests and measures by presenting a tissue specific approach to clinical examination of the foot and ankle. Clinicians will be provided with a systematic examination approach that will allow them to categorize the multiple complications that can present as a result of inversion ankle sprains. A case-based clinical reasoning approach to treatment will provide participants with the ability to clearly communicate findings with patients and colleagues.Highlights Immediately provide a 15-minute systematic examination that includes differential diagnosis for the ankle Learn a rapid examination process for assigning patients to effective treatment-based categories Acquire the most reliable and rel...

Transfemoral and Transtibial Amputee

Brandi Singleton, PT, DPT, CCI

More than 75,000 lower extremity amputations are performed in the United States each year. Many lower extremity amputees will have the potential to regain the ability to walk functional distances with the training of rehabilitation professionals. 50% of amputees report fear of falling and have at least one fall per year. This course will provide therapists with the tools needed to maximize our patient’s potential prior to prosthetic use and promote functional use of prosthetics to allow them to return to optimal levels of function. Therapists play an integral role from day one following an amputation to the day a patient returns to home, community, and work settings. With the proper training and education from qualified therapy professionals utilizing evidence-based practice and effective outcome measures, these patients can reach optimal levels of independence and safety. These outcomes will not only lead to a higher quality of life, but also reduce the risk of further injury and hospitalization.Highlights Improve functional mobility in lower extremity amputees at various points in their rehabilitation journey Effectively reduce fall risk in patients with lower extremity amputation Utilize effective outcome measures to determine an accurate baseline and to track progression

Evaluation and Treatment of the Hip in the Adolescent Athlete

Young athletes sustain a significant amount of injuries participating in sports. The unique nature of the adolescent musculoskeletal system requires developing an understanding of the physical/ physiological differences between adolescent and adult athletes. Effective management of these athletes in the rehabilitation setting demands the practitioner understands both how and why these athletes need to be treated differently than adults. This course will help the clinician to develop an understanding of the adolescent musculoskeletal system. It will also address commonly encountered hip injuries in the adolescent athlete, and how to best manage these injuries to help the athlete successfully return to their sport.Highlights Immediately improve your understanding of the specific hip injuries seen in younger athletes Evidence-based treatment strategies to manage the return to sport process in young athletes with hip injuries

Advanced Concepts in Post-Operative ACL Rehabilitation

Joseph Villena, PT, MPT, OCS, CSCS, COMT

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries represent more than 50% of knee injuries and affects more than 200,000 people in the United States each year. The vast majority of patients who suffer an ACL injury will undergo surgical reconstruction, with annual costs associated with treatment and rehabilitation estimated at $3 billion. Expectations for rehab professionals who treat ACL injuries post-operatively are to utilize an evidence-based approach when determining appropriate exercises and progressions for treatment. This innovative 2-hour course will help attendees expand their clinical skills and knowledge of evidence-based testing and training to optimize their post-operative rehab programs when taking their patients from injury to recovery to full return to sport.Highlights Develop a thorough understanding of the anatomy and biomechanics of the anterior cruciate ligament, the major differences between various ACL graft types, and the critical time points during the healing process after surgery Strengthen your clinical decision making when determining which activities (running, plyometrics, speed and agility training, sports specific drills, etc.) are appropriate throughout the continuum of post-operative ACL rehab Obtain practical exercise tools utilizing the various concepts of periodization, neuromuscular re- education, open and closed kinetic chain exercises, and neuroplasticity to enhance your treatment approach the next day Immediately apply effective, evidence-base...

Trauma Care and Recovery in Acute Care

John Gwilliam, PT, MHA, CWS

In the United States of America trauma is the leading cause of death for individuals up the age of 45-50 years of age. Overall, trauma related events are the fourth leading cause of death overall for all ages. The resulting acute and chronic injuries will usually require a multidisciplinary team, including physicians, nurses and therapists, to provide a comprehensive treatment plan for successful recovery. Due to the challenges these trauma events exact on the healthcare system there is a significant need for every clinician and provider to have a clear understanding of how these events impact care delivery and patient outcomes. The focus of this course is to help the individual therapist provide comprehensive, high complexity evaluations to identify and address key areas of potential limitation for a patient following a traumatic event. Following the completion of this webinar the therapist will be able to understand essential elements to include in the evaluation, common injuries most often encountered in the trauma population, the important role of multidisciplinary communication and collaboration, and necessary considerations for therapeutic interventions.Highlights Confidently provide a comprehensive assessment of the trauma patient Current limitations establishing an effective treatment approach Patient functional status and impact on their potential progression and discharge disposition

Assessment and Treatment Strategies for Dementia, Delirium, and Depression

Toni Patt, PT, DPT, GCS, NCS

One in four patients admitted to an acute care hospital have dementia. Delirium superimposed on those patients accounts for 65% of cases diagnosed with delirium. Thirty percent of all older adults have a diagnosis of depression at any given time. These diagnoses frequently occur together and often are mistaken for one another. Therapists working with older adults will treat patients with these diagnoses more often than one would think, so it is important they be prepared to properly assess patients with one or more of these issues to optimize treatment planning. This course will examine each diagnosis, discuss the similarities and differences of the three, and provide guidelines for treatments.Highlights Distinguish between dementia, delirium and depression when occur simultaneously in patients Treatment plans that incorporate the components of each process to improve outcomes Communication strategies for patients with impaired cognition

Caring for Dementia Patients

Anysia Ensslen-Boggs, Ed.D., M.S., CCC-SLP

Dementia is a broad term for a decline in mental ability that is significant enough to interfere with a person's daily life. Over 5 million Americans are living with dementia; someone in the United States develops Alzheimer's disease every 65seconds. This number is expected to double by 2030, and triple by 2050. Since there is no cure for dementia, this disease results in a progressive decline of cognitive and functional skills. Many individuals with dementia also experience behavioral changes, decreased safety awareness, difficulty eating/swallowing, and decreased independence completing activities of daily living (ADLs). This course is designed for therapists and healthcare professionals so that they may improve outcomes, safety, and quality of life for individuals and their caregivers living with dementia. This course will teach functional and evidence-based techniques, interventions, and education/training strategies. Participants will learn about assessments and screening tools which may be used at all stages of progressive cognitive decline, and how to use those tools to develop individualized treatment plans. Emphasis will be placed on interdisciplinary treatment, documentation challenges, improving patient safety, and caregiver education.Highlights Improve your knowledge of the physical and cognitive implications of dementia in order to more effectively implement evidence-based treatment approaches Use evidence-based treatment approaches to increase participation in d...

Stroke Rehab in the Home and Outpatient Settings

Mary Vanesko MOT, OTR/L, CIMI, CPY and Katie O'Shea, PT, DPT, MBA, GCS, CDP

According to the CDC, stroke causes 1 of every 20 deaths in the United States, killing nearly 130,000 Americans each year. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in theUnited States. Despite the increase in technology, physical and occupational therapists are frequently called upon to collaboratively plan for post-acute care services. This course will focus on discipline-specific interventions in the inpatient home and outpatient setting as well as collaborative interdisciplinary approach to care, while minimizing duplication services. This course is aimed to provide a systematic approach to understanding the home and outpatient examination and implementation of plan of care for the patient who has suffered from a stroke. The attendees will take home specific strategies to provide comprehensive evaluations and focus on functional outcomes. Through interdisciplinary discussion and real-life case studies, attendees will make insightful and accurate recommendations for the next level of care.Highlights Implement an effective evaluation and treatment for the stroke patient in the home or out-patient setting Safely apply individualized interdisciplinary assessment and intervention in the home and outpatient setting with patients who have suffered from a strokeEffective recommendations for discharge plans from the home and outpatient settings, and referral to community services

Stroke Rehab in the Inpatient Rehabilitation Setting

Mary Vanesko, MOT, OTR/L, CIMI, CPY`s Katie O'Shea, PT, DPT, MBA, GCS, CDP

According to the CDC, stroke causes 1 of every 20 deaths in the United States, killing nearly 130,000 Americans each year. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in theUnited States. Despite the in-crease in technology, physical and occupational therapists are frequently called upon to collaboratively plan for post-acute care services. This course will focus on discipline-specific interventions in the inpatient rehab setting as well as collaborative interdisciplinary approaches to care, while minimizing duplication services. The goal for this course is to provide a systematic approach to understanding the inpatient rehab examination and implementation of POC for the patient who has suffered from a stroke. Attendees will take home specific strategies to provide comprehensive evaluations and focus on functional outcomes. Through interdisciplinary discussion and real-life case studies, attendees will make insightful and accurate recommendations for the next level of care.Highlights Implementing an effective evaluation and treatment for the patient by fully understanding the impact of stroke pathology in the rehab setting Safely apply individualized interdisciplinary assessment and intervention in the rehab setting with patients who have suffered from a stroke Promote safe and effective disposition recommendations and discharge plans from the post-acute setting in complicated cases

Stroke Rehab in the Acute Care Setting

According to the CDC, stroke causes 1 of every 20 deaths in the United States, killing nearly 130,000 Americans each year. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in theUnited States. Despite the increase in technology, physical and occupational therapists are frequently called upon to collaboratively plan for post-acute care services. This course will focus on discipline-specific interventions in the acute caresetting as well as collaborative interdisciplinary approach to care, while minimizing duplication of services. This course is aimed to provide a systematic approach to understanding the acute care examination and implementation of POC for the patient who has suffered from a stroke. The attendees will take home specific strategies to provide comprehensive evaluations and focus on functional outcomes. Through interdisciplinary discussion and real-life case studies, attendees will make insightful and accurate recommendations for the next level of care.Highlights Pathology of different types of strokes to implement an effective evaluation and treatment for the patientSafely apply individualized interdisciplinary assessment and intervention in the acute care setting with patients who have suffered from a stroke Promote safe and effective disposition recommendations and discharge plans from the acute care setting in complicated cases

Effective Rehabilitation Approaches for Patients with Parkinson's Disease

Naseem Chatiwala, PT, DPT, MS, NCS

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the world with approximately 930,000 people living with it in the United States. Patients with Parkinson's present with a wide range of complexities that originate from direct consequences of the disease, but also from medicinal side effects and lack of activity. In addition to having motor impairments of dyskinesia, postural instability, imbalance, rigidity, tremors, gait impairments, patients with PD also have difficulty in other areas of personal and contextual factors like coping strategies, attitudes, as well as social and societal interactions. One of the most serious disability symptoms of patients with Parkinson's is freezing of gait (FOG) with almost 80% of patients experiencing it. Medication has been the traditional go to for management of Parkinson's. However, the patient still poses risk of deterioration on physical function, activities of daily living, and participation in social interactions. This can lead to inactivity, social isolation and reduced quality of life. Therefore a wide variety of health professionals need to work collaboratively and be educated on the latest rehabilitation strategies to effectively and efficiently address patient goals and function in this unique population.Highlights Physiology of typical and atypical presentation of Parkinson's disease Review assessment tools validated to assess function in patients with Parkinson's disease Effective techniques to he...

Parkinson's Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Assessment, and Treatment

Anysia Ensslen-Boggs, Ed.D., M.S., CCC-SLP

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects neurons in a specific area of the brain called the substantia nigra. Symptoms generally develop slowly over several years. The progression of symptoms is often quite different from one person to another due to the diversity of the disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) rated complications from PD as the 14th cause of death in the United States. Although there is no cure, treatment options can include medications, surgeries, physical, occupational, and/or speech therapy. While Parkinson's itself is not fatal, disease complications can be serious. It is possible to have a good to great quality of life while living with PD. The first step to living well with Parkinson's disease is to understand the nature of the disease and its progression. As rehabilitation professionals, it is important for us to understand the causes of PD, early signs of PD, movement and non-movement symptoms, and the various diagnosis and treatment options for those living with PD.Highlights Causes and symptoms of Parkinson's disease and how they can affect aspects of diagnosis and treatment within your specific discipline Diagnostic and therapeutic options when designing functional treatment plans for patients with Parkinson's disease

Rehabilitation Considerations in Geriatric Oncology

Nicole Scheiman, DrOT, MHS, OTR/L, CLT-LANA, CKTP, CEES-Advanced, CES, CSST, CDCS, CORE

Age is the single most significant risk factor for developing cancer, with 60% of all newly diagnosed malignant tumors and 70% of all cancer deaths occurring in persons 65 years or older (Korc-Grodzicki & Tew, 2017). Increased survival, along with a rise in new diagnoses of cancer among older adults, makes geriatric cancer patients the largest proportion of the population of cancer survivors in the United States (Extermann, 2020). Therefore, clinicians working with the older adult population are charged with understanding cancer treatment paired with the unique needs of the aging individual. This course will improve your understanding of these distinct rehabilitation needs of the older adult with cancer to enable you to provide effective treatment options to enhance overall quality of life in your daily practice.Highlights Immediately improve your understanding of the unique rehabilitation needs of the older adult with cancer Confidently provide safe, effective, and age-friendly treatment options for older adults receiving medical intervention for cancer

Vestibular Rehab

Anysia Ensslen-Boggs, Ed.D., M.S., CCC-SLP

Dizziness accounts for up to 11% of Emergency Department visits each year in the United States, approximately 40% of these patients have peripheral vestibular dysfunction. The key to recognizing dizziness caused by peripheral vestibular dysfunction is recognizing nystagmus, involuntary jumping of the eyes. Physical and occupational therapists can play an important role in helping to identify the presence of a peripheral vestibular disorder, thus potentially saving money on unnecessary testing and lengthy hospital stays. This presentation will provide an overview of the anatomy of the vestibular system as well as the pathophysiology of common etiologies that can cause dizziness. Participants will learn evidence-based oculomotor examinations aimed at identifying abnormal eye movements and nystagmus patterns to help identify potential causes of dizziness and lead to an appropriate differential diagnosis.Highlights Practice and review evidence-based bedside oculomotor assessments to help identify central and peripheral sources of vertigo Integrate learning to immediately apply to your PT/OT practice through video and case study-based examples

Implementing an Exercise-Based Approach to Treat Progressive Neurological Diagnoses

Meredith Roberts Lo, PT, DPT

Over 1.2 million people in the US are diagnosed withParkinson's and this is expected to double by 2030. There is no cure for Parkinson's and other chronic progressive neurological diseases currently. However, our research has been demonstrating the effectiveness of exercise on slowing down disease progression and improving motor control recovery for our neurological population. As physical and occupational therapists, our expertise is in applying exercise physiology to pathology. We are the experts in pairing these two components and teaching our patients how to utilize them for their highest possible quality of life and functional status. If you want to do more than just help your patient compensate and give them the tools to target the disease itself, this class is for you. Learn how to take our exciting growing body of research and impact not only your client's quality of life, but your own. This workshop will bring you up to date on current research that demonstrates the effectiveness of exercise as a tool for modifying disease progression in neurological diagnoses. Participants will leave with a variety of treatment ideas and the tools to modify or progress these for any setting or impairment level. Didactic lab-based activities using case studies will allow the participants to enhance their skill in designing interventions that utilize the research presented. On returning to your patients you will be able to immediately put into place the treatment ideas and progression...

Seeking Improved Therapy Outcomes with Music

Lisa Young Milliken, MA, CCC-SLP, FNAP, CDP, RAC- CT

Significant research has been devoted to determining the physiological, emotional, cognitive and psychological effects of music in a clinical setting. The application of such research has been found to be most effective for supporting improved outcomes with a variety of clients enrolled in physical, occupational and speech language pathology therapy sessions. The resulting functional effects may often be quite remarkable and contribute significantly to helping each client achieve his or her therapeutic goals.This course shares a snapshot of such research when applied to therapeutic skilled interventions. Specifically, topics addressed will include the effects of music when added to interventions for clients with cardiovascular disease, stress induced diseases, mild cognitive impairments, Alzheimer's Disease, psychotic diagnoses, Parkinson's Disease, Aphasia, Epilepsy and other conditions such as post-surgical pain and unilateral neglect.HighlightsImprove clinical outcomes for clients with a variety of disorders by incorporating the correct musical strategies to treatment sessionsApply evidence and rationales of specific music tempos to target the correct clinical functionEffectively treat patients with Parkinson's disease and engage them in treatment sessions

The Current Landscape of Assessment and Treatment for Lymphedema Patients

Dana Davis, PT, DPT, CWS

Lymphedema is a chronic condition that is characterized by lymphatic fluid collection in the body causing increased swelling. If recognized early this disease can be treated and possibly reversed (diagnosis dependent). However, it is currently a highly overlooked condition that is not diagnosed until it has progressed significantly. This course is aimed to aid the therapist in clinically evaluating, screening, and implementing treatment of this patient population. Improving knowledge and early recognition of this disease will help improve outcomes of these patients.HighlightsImprove your understanding of lymphedema development, prevention, and pathophysiologyBest practices and guidelines for recourses, exercise, compression, and garmentsDetermine when and why to refer treatment to a lymphedema specialist and how to advocate for your patient

Dyskinesia and Dystonia

Meredith Roberts Lo, PT, DPT

Dyskinesia and dystonia are two motor control impairments that are challenging to identify and treat effectively. They both can play a large role in the risk for falls in our neurological patient population. In this course,interventions will be covered that restore the patient to their prior level of function and reduce their risk for falls. Participants will review medication management to provide the patient with specific and intense interventions that will restore the patient to their prior level of function and allow them to perform their ADLs, IADLs and leisure activities safely. This course aims to clarify the difference between the two and provide you with effective treatment strategies you can use immediately.HighlightsImmediately improve your clients' fall risk by appropriately addressing dystonia and dyskinesia and their impact on balance using practical treatment techniquesReview medication management to provide the patient with specific and intense interventions that will restore the patient to their prior level of functionVideo case examples to enhance understanding of key concepts and to spark intervention creativity

Assessment of the Dizzy Patient in the Acute Care Setting

Kara Rawlings PT, DPT, NCS

Dizziness accounts for up to 11% of emergency department visits each year in the United States. Approximately 40% of these patients have peripheral vestibular dysfunction. Physical and occupational therapists can play an important role in the acute care setting by helping to identify the presence of a peripheral vestibular disorder, thus potentially saving money on unnecessary testing and lengthy hospital stays. This course will outline evidence- based bedside assessment strategies, that the therapist is uniquely trained to perform, to help in the evaluation and management of patients presenting with vertigo and dizziness. The therapist will also learn basic treatment interventions for vestibular hypofunction and BPPV and when to refer their patients for continued treatment.HighlightsEvidence-based bedside assessments to help identify central and peripheral sources of vertigoImmediately improve your patients symptoms with evidence-based treatment interventions aimed at resolving BPPV

Nutrition Management for Dementia Patients

Jennifer Darby, PT, DPT, GCS, CCN, CPAHA, CEEAA

Worldwide, 50 million individuals have dementia, with 10 million new cases each year. In the older adult population, dementia is a major cause of dependence and disability. Roughly 50% of caregivers in the United States who care for older adults are providing for individuals with dementia. Nutrition is not what typically comes to mind when people think about dementia. However, nutrition is central to caring for those with dementia. A nutrition program for dementia that considers health, independence, and quality of life can profoundly enhance the lives of those living with dementia. This course will explore nutritional considerations for patients with dementia and other cognitive challenges and present the practitioner ideas that they will be able to incorporate into a comprehensive treatment program.HighlightsConfidently address nutrition and general nutritional recommendations set forth by the FDAEnhance your patient's treatment and recovery by adding a nutritional component to your overall plan of care

Wound Composition and Assessment

Dana Davis, PT, DPT, CWS

"Chronic wounds are those that do not progress through a normal, orderly, and timely sequence of repair. They are common and are often incorrectly treated. The morbidity and associated costs of chronic wounds highlight the need to implement wound prevention and treatment guidelines."Bowers S, Franco E. Chronic Wounds: Evaluation and Management. Am Fam Physician. 2020 Feb 1;101 (3):159-166. PMID: 32003952.This course is aimed at helping the therapist in clinically evaluating and documenting the chronic wound. To improve recognition of different tissue composition, appropriate wound documentation and how this impacts their clinical decision making for this patient. By improving their wound composition understanding, they can then improve the treatment modalities and topical applications that are utilized with these patients. This course will provide case studies to demonstrate the application of this information and how the therapist can put these skills into immediate action.HighlightsImprove your knowledge of working with advanced wound dressings, their function and impact on the microbiology of the woundBest practices and guidelines for treatments of this populationImprove your outcomes and patient satisfaction

Nutrition Management for the Cardiac Patient

Jennifer Darby PT, DPT, GCS, CCN, CPAHA, CEEAA

Many of the patients we treat every day have various cardiovascular co-morbidities. In this course we will discuss various nutritional options to help prevent potential cardiovascular issues, as well as improve cardiovascular health. The nutrition options discussed will aid the rehab professional in designing an overall treatment and exercise program to ensure a better outcome for the patient. Genetic components to cardiovascular health will be covered, as well as how to keep cardiac cells functioning optimally through nutrition over a life span. In addition, discussion will include post-surgical nutrition recommendations to aid in recovery and allow for improved therapy program tolerance. Finally, the course will look at various diet programs and analyze how to recommend the appropriate patient-specific program based on patient needs and limitations.HighlightsConfidently speak with your patients about nutritional recommendations set forth by the FDAEnhance your cardiac patients' treatment and recovery by adding a nutritional component to your overall plan of care

Atypical Wounds

Dana Davis, PT, DPT, CWS

Being able to identify and treat wounds caused by uncommon etiologies, also known as atypical wounds, is a crucial skill. As the US population ages, and as humans are exposed to an increasingly diverse spectrum of microorganisms and mechanical injuries, atypical wounds will present more frequently to wound specialists."Atypical Wounds: Recognizing and Treating the Uncommon Anderson, Julie PhD, RN, CCRC; Hanson, Darlene MS, RN; Langemo, Diane PhD, RN, FAAN; Hunter, Susan MSN, RN; Thompson, Patricia MS, RNClinicians involved in treatment of wounds will benefit from increased knowledge in differential diagnosis, recognition of these atypical wounds and how to treat them to improve their patient outcomes and decrease time for healing. This course will improve your ability to create an appropriate plan of care and intervention strategy as well as red flags for further medical referral. Wound care is a much needed and growing field of therapy and it is critical to improve clinical knowledge to provide the best evidence- based care as possible.HighlightsConfidently assess and diagnose 4 specific atypical wounds - Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), Pyoderma gangrenosum, Calciphylaxis, and Necrotizing fasciitis (NF)Differential diagnosis, red flag specific comorbidities that are often correlated with these atypical woundsTypical treatment regiments associated with these atypical wounds

Managing the Complex Presentations of Parkinson's Disease

Meredith Roberts Lo, PT, DPT

Close to 1 million people have Parkinson's in the U.S. This results in over $52 billion spent on health care and lost wages according to the Parkinson's Foundation's recent study. As therapists we are seeing more and more individuals not only with typical Parkinson's but more complex movement disorders. Are your treatment strategies effective enough or are you throwing darts at the wall? Our interventions must be specific and intense to reduce the risk of falls and return patients to their ADLs effectively and quickly. With the right understanding of complex motor control impairments and treatment tools you can optimize your outcomes and continue to be reimbursed for therapy. Avoid banging your head against the wall and get the treatment techniques you need to help optimize your patients' outcomes in Parkinson's. Go beyond the basics.This workshop will enhance your basic understanding of Parkinson's disease and allow you to optimize your patient outcomes in this complex movement disorder. No two patients are alike, and atypical Parkinson's disease often shows up in our patient presentations along with difficult to manage motor and non-motor impairments. These symptoms can often limit the effectiveness of our interventions.Throughout this course we will examine key components of complex movement disorders to understand them more fully. Through case and video examples we will apply treatment strategies that are effective, and evidence based. At the end of this course, you will ...

Addressing Mental Health from the NICU and Beyond

Mary Vanesko MOT, OTR/L, CIMI

According to the March of Dimes report card in 2020, preterm birth and its complications are the second largest contributor of infant death in the U.S., and preterm birth rates have been increasing for five years. With the increasing number of preterm births per year and the substantial economic and social-emotional burden families endure with a NICU experience, mental and physical family-centered health and wellness need to be addressed at the time of NICU admission. Long term effects of even one day of a NICU admission can result in several health-related deficits including increased familial stress, parental and caregiver post-traumatic stress disorder, and infant social-emotional and behavioral deficits to name a few.HighlightsImmediately gain a deeper understanding of the neonatal intensive care unit experience and the impact it has on the neonate and familyReview evidence-based research of effective interventions and strategies to mitigate poor mental and physical outcomes of parents, caregivers, and infants

Effective Strategies for Integrating Visual & Motor Learning

Jacqueline Schafer-Clay, OTD, OTR/L, C-SIPT

In today's practice more and more clients are being referred for visual, motor, sensory processing, and coordination deficits related to poor self-regulation, motor, visual processing, apraxia/discoordination, and fine motor abilities. Many of these underlying deficits go undetected and thus children are slow to progress and master visual & motor goals.This course will teach you how to recognize and help clients overcome these weaknesses, which can be difficult to address due to the complexity of the underlying limits. This workshop will improve your confidence and abilities in observation, analysis, treatment planning, and interventions to improve visual motor outcomes. Upon completion, you will understand the hidden but essential link between treatment of underlying deficits and improving visual and motor outcomes.HighlightsInnovative techniques to improve your clients functional visual motor integration and outcomesSensory integration feedback process and how it impacts motor output and coordination

Impact of Visual Deficits on Motor and Cognitive Development In Infants and Toddlers

Subah Gupta MHS, OTR/L, SCLV, CBIS

Visual deficits often get masked as cognitive deficits where lack of engagement is blamed on lack of motivation and attention. It is a known fact that sub-optimal visuo-sensory abilities affect performance of non-verbal tasks. This course will teach healthcare professionals how to improve infant and toddler engagement in the appropriate developmental activity using practical treatment techniques that lead with vision. The attendee will receive tools to identify visual deficits and improve their ability in analyzing and planning interventions towards treatment outcomes. Addressing vision is the missing piece of the puzzle which when addressed with sensory, motor and cognitive deficits allows healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.HighlightsClinical observations, standardized tests and practical interventions for functional deficits, underlying conditions, and co-morbidities you can use the next day through case examples and videosIdentify treatment resources and strategies to improve visual perceptual and visuo-motor skills in infants and toddlers

Creating Visual Supports for Children with Autism

Belinda Worley, MS-SLP-CCC

This 2-hour dynamic course will take you on the autism journey to help you understand the importance of visual supports and early intervention for this growing population. Not only is "making visual" essential, it can also help to improve classroom success and daily living skills. It is time to think outside the box and get creative in your home, classroom, and therapy settings. Participants will be provided practical visual supports and strategies to use in the home, natural setting, therapy setting or school. The course will provide participants with low budget resources they can implement tomorrow as well as a greater appreciation of the child with autism.HighlightsIdeas and strategies that help children with autism spectrum disorders through sensory integration, communication, behavior, daily living, social skills, and educationDevelop visual supports, schedules, and social stories that can benefit young children with autismSelect practical visual supports that can be used to help engage the young child with autism

Utilizing Sensory Integration Strategies

Jacqueline Schafer-Clay, OTD, OTR/L, C-SIPT

Self-regulation is the conscious and unconscious processes that affect the ability of one to control responses. Research indicates a rise in challenging behaviors of children during early development and the negative outcomes associated with the inability to self-regulate. It is common for infants and toddlers to display some disruptive behaviors, but severe or persistent behaviors are associated with poor academic, family, social, and mental health outcomes. Development of using sensory integration strategies and regulation skills is fundamentally important to a childs ability to achieve quality sleep, school success, happiness, coping skills and mastery of foundational sensory functions. Healthy self-regulation is impacted by a variety of factors in the postnatal environment including emotional, language, and cognitive development factors, as well as caregiver bonds and interactions. Research shows challenging behavior and poor self-regulation can improve by using sensory strategies, positive parenting, caregiver-child bonding and attachments, and child-centered play activities.This workshop will teach proven sensory integration strategies to therapists so they are able to utilize and demonstrate them during sessions; as well as educate parents to improve child-caregiver bonds and self-regulation. This will support decreased behavior during sessions and improved home program compliance secondary to improved caregiver-child bonds.HighlightsTechniques to foster self-regulatio...

Technology and Screen-Time

Nisha S. Sanghvi, OTR/L

Technology and digital-based media is everywhere, and it is a necessary part of our lives. It is crucial for our children to know how to use technology and digital-based media in a healthy and balanced way as their brains and bodies are developing. It is important to ensure our children are getting the physical movement, adequate sleep, and nutrition that their bodies need. Technology and digital-based media should not be the focus of an activity or replace relationships. Children need connection and interaction with others. Technology and digital-based media spark interest, and that is when joint engagement and co-viewing can have endless possibilities for our children. Technology and digital-based media are tools that should be used to enhance the learning process and allow for creativity to prepare students for the future. The role of media mentors in our communities is crucial and necessary to help support our caregivers and educators in how to model technology and digital-based media. We must identify how to appropriately evaluate apps, gaming options, products, and programs on the market to support the development of children.Participants will learn the different types of technology and digital-based media our children are exposed to and expected to use, review current statics and guidelines, learn the "C"s of technology, identify ways to support play and learning experiences with technology and digital-based media. Attendees will review how to promote healthy engagemen...

Integration of Persistent Reflexes

Robyn Otty, OTD, OTR/L, BCPR, FAOTA

Reflexes play an important role in a childs ability to establish effective motor patterns and integrate sensory information. In one study, 60% of neuro-typical children were found to have a persistent reflex (Gieysztor, Choinska, and Paprocka-Borowicz, 2018). The prevalence of non-integrated reflexes can have longstanding effects on a childs ability to learn and develop appropriate motor responses.This course will provide a more distinct way to evaluate reflexes and provide evidence supported therapeutic activities to address persistent reflexes. With such systematic attention on effectively assessing the existence of reflexes, clinicians will be better equipped to establish documentation to support their practice. Through the review and application of such reflex assessment strategies and therapeutic activities, clinicians will be more equipped to address reflexes that are often associated with children with ADHD, learning disabilities, or sensory processing disorders.HighlightsImmediately address persistent reflexes and how they influence developmentObservation-based reflex assessment strategies and solutions to address reflex integrationPractical assessment and re-assessment strategies for underlying reflexesEffective, evidence-based interventions for integration of reflexesIntegrate into PT/OT/SLP practice through case examples

Effective Treatment for Sensory, Motor and Cognitive Challenges

Lisa Irvine, MS, OTR/L

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Intellectual Disabilities (ID) present with problem behaviors at high rates. Problem behaviors such as self-injury, aggression, pica, disruption, and elopement result in a diminished quality- of-life for the individual and family. Recent evidence indicates yoga and mindfulness is an effective intervention in improving behaviors and gaining engagement with this unique population.In this course, participants will examine the benefits of using yoga and mindfulness as a modality for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, sensory processing disorders and other neurodevelopmental disorders and how to properly integrate it into any setting. Participants will gain techniques to improve strength, self-awareness, focus, and regulation while promoting well-being. Participants will be able to utilize yoga as a therapeutic tool for intervention when they return to their clinic, school, or practice setting.HighlightsEffective yoga and mindfulness strategies for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, sensory processing disorders and other neurodevelopmental disordersYoga, breath, and mindfulness techniques that individuals will enjoy and that will improve strength, reduce anxiety, improve focus, and body awareness

Therapeutic Kinesiology Taping for Children With Neurological Impairments

Chrys Kub, PT, MSPT, C-NDT

Children with neurological impairments benefit from improved sensory perceptive information coming into their nervous system. Therapeutic kinesiology taping can facilitate muscle activity, inhibit abnormal muscle activity, assist to reposition joints, support postural alignment, and improve proprioception for better functional outcomes. some of the benefits of therapeutic kinesiology taping include providing stability of joints while allowing full range of motion, unloading tissue via decompression for improved sliding of myofascial layers and providing enhanced motor control through a novel stimulus during movement for improved body awareness. Evidence-based research suggests that clinicians who incorporate kinesiology taping into their treatment plan note improvement in the postural control and functional activities with both, upper and lower limbs, and increase in functional independency.Participants of this course will learn to implement kinesiology taping for the most common problems in the pediatric patient with neuromotor disorders such as: truncal hypotonia, shoulder girdle instability, and extremity dysfunction. Participants will leave with practical and effective kinesiology taping skills they can integrate into their toolbox the next day to improve therapeutic outcomes.HighlightsTherapeutic kinesiology taping interventions for common dysfunctions in the neurological pediatric patient, such as truncal hypotonia, shoulder girdle instability, and extremity dysfunction...

Evaluation & Treatment of the Knee in the Adolescent Athlete

Paul Frizelle, PT, DPT, MS, OCS, MTC, CSCS, PES, CES

Knee injuries account for 15% of all interscholastic sport- related injuries. These knee injuries often result in both negative short-term and long-term quality of life reports. This presentation will help to develop an understanding of the unique physiological and anatomical aspects of the adolescent athlete. Participants will review commonly encountered knee injuries in the adolescent athlete. Finally, the course will present evidence-based evaluation and treatment strategies to help these individuals return to their ADLs and the sport activities they love.HighlightsImmediately improve the way you assess and treat the most encountered knee injuries in young athletesEffective rehabilitation strategies for management of adolescent knee patients in all phases of rehab that you can implement with minimal equipment

Supporting Functional Development in Early Intervention

Nisha S. Sanghvi, OTR/L

Early intervention services support the development of children during a critical time of brain development with support of self-regulation. It is important to understand typical development, identify areas of need and embed evidence-based strategies into everyday routines. It is critical to address priorities identified by the family, using a strength- based approach and team collaboration. It is imperative to empower parents and caregivers to read child cues, facilitate appropriate strategies with understanding and consistency to promote independence and success.This course will provide best practices for providing effective early intervention services in natural environments. Participants will identify red flags within early childhood development. Participants will also learn ways to support the development of foundational skills to improve function with daily routines. Evidence-based strategies will be reviewed to help strengthen the neuro sensory-motor pathways. Participants will leave this course knowing how to develop a collaborative treatment plan to support patients and empower parents and caregivers.HighlightsRecognize the foundational skills for typical development and red flags to help identify impact on everyday functionImplement evidence-based strategies to strengthen neurosensory motor pathways to enhance development and success with daily activitiesTeam collaboration strategies to empower parents and caregivers which support growth and learningIDEA Part C Earl...

Early Intervention for the Young Child

Colleen Williams, PT

Early intervention includes children from birth to three years old. The efficacy of early intervention therapies has been studied and proven to help children reach their true potential. Current knowledge of brain development in the child is rapidly changing. Researchers are discovering the powerful influence of the cerebellum in the developing child. Children face many different challenges today that they did not in the past. These changes in the life of a child can affect their ability to achieve motor milestones and to create a foundation for future growth and development.This course will provide physical and occupational therapists strategies to assess and treat the child in early intervention. As your knowledge of typical brain and motor development improves, your treatment sessions will be more effective. Practical and highly effective strategies will be provided to improve your confidence and success in working with children in early intervention.HighlightsRecognize the importance of the cerebellum in the treatment of infants and young childrenImprove your ability to assess and treat a young child with challenges such as motor skill development and postural control

Practical Techniques to Address Pediatric Gait Dysfunction

Chrys Kub, PT, c-NDT

Pediatric gait dysfunction affects a child's ability to explore their environment and engage easily in activities with their peers. Identifying the major structural impairments and muscular imbalances which contribute to gait dysfunction is an essential skill for the pediatric physical therapist in order to maximize the child's functional mobility. While more invasive interventions such as Botox injections or surgery are an option, physical therapists are charged with providing more timely interventions for improved functional outcomes to optimize reimbursement for therapeutic intervention. Physical therapists need to develop biomechanical expertise in order to assess such imbalances and work cooperatively with orthotic providers to come to a team decision on progressive orthotic intervention for improved ambulation outcomes.This course will introduce the clinician to assessment techniques for the lower extremity as to the requirements for optimum muscle and biomechanical function for efficient gait. Participants will learn how to perform these assessments and will gain knowledge of the requirements for efficient gait. Attendees will be able to return to the clinic with a clear treatment plan for interventions and/or orthotic intervention, and when to make an informed decision to recommend more invasive strategies such as Botox injections or surgery.HighlightsPractical assessment strategies for musculoskeletal imbalances you can use the next dayTreatment techniques and orthot...

Kinesiology Taping for Respiratory, Oral Motor, and Speech Related Issues

Kristin L. Sanders, PT, MPT, PCS

Kinesiology tape has been utilized since the 1970s by many healthcare and sports medicine professionals. While often thought of as a treatment for athletes, kinesiology taping is very versatile to address the needs of a wide variety of patient populations. This modality supplements, and as needed, replaces your handling and prompting to improve the functioning of clients both during and after sessions. Augment your current treatment techniques to advance your practice and better serve your clients' needs.This course will empower participants to integrate kinesiology tape into their practice with clients from pediatrics to older adults. After a review of the background information and principles of taping, this course will provide "tape along with the instructor" lab practices. Participants will learn to safely and effectively apply therapeutic tape to improve outcomes related to oral motor skills, respiration, and speech. Participants will leave with effective evidence-based kinesiology taping strategies to integrate into their toolbox the next day, in person or via telehealth to improve therapeutic outcomes.The content of this program is germane to children, students and clients ages 0- 12.HighlightsKinesiology taping applications to effectively treat issues outside of the traditional including respiration, articulation, feeding, bruxism, droolingHands-on labs to practice and review taping principles which you can safely and effectively use the next day

Sensory-Based Feeding Strategies

Victoria Wood, OTR/L

Just about everyone has treated a problem feeder/picky eater or has been asked to help "fix" a picky eater during their career. During the past decade children have become more sensitive in general. There has been an increased incidence of allergies, sensory sensitivities, and spectrum disorders. Along with these sensitivities, food preferences and aversions have skyrocketed. Because eating is one of the basic human needs, if a person is not eating well it plays a large role in all other areas of development.This course will provide information on the role food plays in the hierarchy of needs, signs and symptoms of picky eating/problem feeding, effective treatment methods, and caregiver education. Feeding is more than just hand to mouth. This course will show therapists how to support feeding through adequate seating, posture, motor control, core strength, and breath control.The content of this program is germane to children, students and clients ages 0- 18.HighlightsReview the latest evidence, trends, and why there has been a surge in picky eating during the past 5 yearsEquip yourself with skills to assess and interpret common problems encountered during feedingImprove your treatment, intervention, caregiver education, and differential diagnosis of a range of feeding barriers

Effective Strategies for Providing Self-Regulation and Emotional Safety

Bala Pillai, PT, MA, DPT PCS

The spread of the corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was an unprecedented event that rapidly introduced widespread feelings of threat and loss of connection in school-aged children. Feeling unsafe brings out our protective stress response - we either fight, escape, or shutdown. There is a critical need for behavioral supports to be implemented across all students (especially students with special needs with behavioral concerns) since the pandemic. The need to understand how we can make our students feel safe, connected, and curious has never been more critical.The focus of this course is on identifying, reducing, and eliminating toxic stress patterns in children and caregivers, improving relationships, and using a neuro developmental lens to inform, discipline, and treat. Learn how co-regulation, neuroception, and autonomic states impact our behavior and the behavior of people around us. This course offers educational professionals an awareness of anytime-anywhere behavioral supports that can be used in real time when they most need it using technology that is easily accessible to them.HighlightsEffective strategies to connect with your student in ways which make them feel safeNeuroception and its impact on therapist-child connection and the ability to learn new skillsAddressing impulse control, attentional control, communication expectations, and decision making skills while helping them learn the ABC's (Agility, Balance andCoordination) of movement skillsSpeaker led self-...

Evaluation & Treatment of the Adolescent Athlete Elbow & Wrist

Paul Frizelle, PT, DPT, MS, OCS, MTC, CSCS, PES, CES

Young athletes sustain a significant amount of injuries participating in sports. 38% of young, elite tennis players were found to have sustained overuse wrist injuries. Gymnastics, rowing, martial arts, combat sports, baseball and volleyball are just a few examples of the sports which may cause higher risk for injuries to the elbow and wrist. The unique nature of the adolescent musculoskeletal system requires an understanding of the physical/physiological differences between adolescent and adult athletes. This course will help the clinician to develop an understanding of the adolescent musculoskeletal system. Participants will also address commonly encountered elbow and wrist injuries in the adolescent athlete, and how to best manage these injuries to help the athlete successfully return to their sport.HighlightsImmediately improve your ability to identify wrist and elbow injuries specific to the young athletePractical therapeutic exercise and manual therapy techniques to use in the rehabilitation process

Identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Early Intervention

Belinda Worley, MS-SLP-CCC

This 2-hour dynamic course will take you on the autism journey helping you understand the importance of patterns of development and early intervention for this growing population. Participants will be provided with practical techniques and strategies to use in the home, natural setting, therapy setting or school. The workshop will provide participants with resources they can implement tomorrow as well as a greater appreciation of the child with autism.HighlightsConfidently recognize the primary characteristics and patterns of development in infants and toddlers who have or are at risk for developing autism spectrum disordersTreatments and resources available to children with autism spectrum disorders as presented by very young children

Foundations of Applying Evidence-Based Practice

Robyn Otty, OTD, OTR/L, BCPR, FAOTA

Evidence-based practice is more than an expectation. It is an ethical, professional responsibility. Clients rely upon health professionals to employ the highest level of standards and ensure clinical decisions are supported by up-to-date literature. One key contributor to the health professions is the Choosing Wisely campaign that aims to educate the public and health professionals of clinical expectations based on presented evidence. With the added emphasis to use evidence-supported evaluation tools and interventions, health professionals must take the time to translate evidence into action. With this session, practitioners will gain the confidence to locate, understand, and critique available research to effectively utilize in their practice setting therefore enhancing and restoring patient's functional performance.HighlightsResources to access evidence-based research through reputable open access sourcesStrategies to critically review research methodologies to support your clinical practiceIntegrate evidence-based research into clinical utility through case examples

Management & Treatment of Concussions

Naseem Chatiwala, PT, DPT, MS, NCS

The paradigm of concussion management has shifted from total rest to active recovery. Despite advances in the assessment, diagnosis, prognosis, and management of the patient with concussion and its varied sequelae, this shift emphasizes the need for ongoing research and new innovative methods to improve interdisciplinary care in concussion management. The complex nature of a concussive injury involves multiple systems and the overall heterogeneity of the patient, calling for collaborative efforts from the heath care team. The symptoms can vary from person to person, but typically fall into four categories: somatic (physical), cognitive, affective (emotional), and sleep. Professionals involved in the care after concussion may include the physician, nurse practitioner (NP), physical therapist (PT), neuropsychologist, speech-language pathologist (SLP), and occupational therapist (OT) functioning as the core medical team. Research shows an establishment of a multidisciplinary clinic and providing a standardized protocol for concussion care results in significantly decreased institutional resource utilization and more consistent care among young patients with sports concussion.This course will lay out an understanding of roles and responsibilities of PT, OT and SLP, interprofessional communication and team work as they pertain to management of a patient with concussion. PT lens will cover cervical, vestibular, and graded exercises prescription that can contribute to dizziness, hea...

Pediatric Aquatic Therapy

Michele Alaniz, BCP, OTR/L

Kids love the water. In fact, families who have children with disabilities identify swimming as their most popular physical activity and overall favorite activity. Water-based intervention is a great way to bring fun to therapy while targeting skills such as bilateral coordination, strength, sensory modulation, and motor planning skills. Not only that, but aquatic therapy can help build essential water safety skills to prevent drowning. Did you know that drowning is one of the top causes of accidental death in children? Aquatic therapy can provide a protective mechanism while at the same time improving motor coordination and strength.This course will teach proven swim techniques so you will be able to confidently treat children with autism and other developmental disabilities in the aquatic environment. You can play a key role in developing a child's proficiency in this beloved leisure activity while also boosting their ability to achieve traditional therapeutic goals. No swim experience required! Get ready to go into the pool tomorrow and have some fun with a whole new set of intervention techniques.HighlightsEffective, evidence-based interventions for improving on task behavior, motor coordination, sensory modulation, strength and more!Create, implement, and document aquatic-based intervention treatment plans for children with autism and other disabilities

The Building Blocks of Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)

Shanna Klump, M.S., CCC-SLP

There is significant inconsistency in the training of Speech-Language Pathologists on appropriate assessment and intervention for Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS). This has led to both an under and over diagnosis of CAS due to a misunderstanding of the diagnostic criteria and discriminating features that help Speech-Language Pathologists to differentiate CAS from other speech sound disorders. Additionally, there has been recent research which is helping to inform appropriate treatment approaches that are rooted in the principles of motor learning. These approaches have a focus on addressing the movement of speech rather than targeting sounds in isolation, which differentiates these approaches from traditional methodologies. This course will increase your knowledge of and confidence in differentially diagnosing CAS. We will discuss evidence-based treatment approaches to help your clients improve their motor speech skills. Participants will gain valuable insight on target selection and elicitation/cueing strategies to effectively treat children with CAS.HighlightsDiagnostic criteria needed to differentiate Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) from other speech sound disordersEssential components of motor-based treatment approaches for Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)Practical treatment strategies you can use the next day with clients who have mild to severe Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)

Foot & Ankle in the Adolescent Athlete

Paul Frizelle, PT, DPT, MS, OCS, MTC, CSCS, PES, CES

Foot/ankle injuries are some of the most common in the young athlete. Up to 30% of young athlete injuries that present to sports medicine professionals are foot/ankle related. When these injuries are not managed, there is diminished activity time, decreased quality of life, and long- term negative outcomes to the health of the athlete.This course will address the most frequently reported foot/ankle injuries seen in young athletes to improve the clinicians understanding of these pathologies. The content will focus on the most current evidence for the management of these injuries along with evidence-based manual therapy, neuromuscular retraining, and therapeutic exercise interventions. Along with the presentation of the current research, we will cover slides with detail on specific manual therapy techniques, verbal and visual cues for balance training, and ideas to address therapeutic exercises when patients may have limited access to equipment. This knowledge will improve the clinicians ability to effectively treat this commonly injured body region.HighlightsImmediately improve your knowledge of common foot/ankle injuries in the young athleteEvidence-based interventions to improve mobility, neuromuscular control, and strength in the foot/ankle

Canine Assisted Therapy

Victoria Wood, OTR/L

As more people become interested in how animals can therapeutically benefit humans, there has been a call for training animals to be Certified Therapy dogs. Because this is an important role, it is imperative that people and their animals become properly trained and certified. This increases the effectiveness, consistency, and legitimacy of using certified therapy dogs. This course will teach you the many benefits of using a trained animal during therapy sessions. It will give you resources and information on what is needed to obtain certification for a therapy dog. You will meet Polly and see her in action with several patients.HighlightsRequirements to train and certify your canineHow to properly train and certify your therapy dog to increase the effectiveness, consistency, and legitimacy of the programBenefits of using canine assisted therapy in physical, occupational and speech therapy

Nutrition Management for Patients with ADHD

Jennifer Darby, PT, DPT, GCS, CCN, CPAHA, CEEAA

Research shows that protein promotes alertness in the brain. Carbohydrates do the opposite and artificial colors or flavors are even worse. This course will discuss the latest brain research and evidence-based best practices regarding diet and nutrition to get kids and adults motivated, focused, organized, and performing closer to their true potential. By recognizing how the brain works in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) along with the executive function relationship, participants will be able to better identify a variety of interventions that can positively influence symptoms of ADHD in your patients. Diet, nutrition, and environmental influences will be covered and their role in the focus of brain development and overall health.HighlightsConfidently speak with your patients and parents on nutrition and general nutritional recommendations set forth by the FDAEnhance your patient's focus by adding a nutritional component to your overall plan of care

Evidence-Based Assessment and Treatment for TMJ, Cervical Spine Dysfunction, and Headaches

David J. Denton, PT, DPT, CIDN, CVT

Headaches and cervicogenic vertigo are among the most common compounding symptoms experienced in Temporomandibular Disorder sufferers. The latest research supports findings that there is a close relationship between headache and TMD. Data also indicates that headache makes pain parameters more intense and frequent. Through this course the attendee will substantiate positive benefits including evidence-based practice and strong differential diagnosis. This approach fosters a quick recovery, return to functionality through the relief of pain, and provides answers for complex integrated symptoms stemming from the upper cervical spine and jaw. These added skills will create a practice to, "offer an avenue of a niche practice to patients affected with chronic painful events related to the jaw and upper cervical spine, with otherwise nowhere else to turn."This interactive course will expand your manual practice tool-box, which can branch out, to include cervical dizziness, TMD, and promote resources for a large subset of the population affected by postural and cervical headaches.Manual hands-on techniques involving trigger point palpation and intervention to relieve pressure, de-activation of symptomatic structures surrounding the jaw, as well as introduction into manual-based interventions including joint manipulation, trigger point dry needling, and IASTM. Techniques, differential diagnosis, and replication of symptoms will allow an adequate and effective plan of care to foster r...

Assessment and Treatment for Survivors of Traumatic Brain Injury

Susan Little, PT, MS, CBIS

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of death and disability in the United States. Moderate to severe injuries often lead to lifelong disability. In the United States alone, the Center for Disease Control estimates that there are approximately 5.3 million individuals living with TBI related disabilities. Rehabilitation professionals are charged with minimizing TBI related sequelae and optimizing function. With ever increasing pressures from insurers and ever changing evidence from researchers, knowledge translation from the literature to the clinic is a key in efficient and optimal rehabilitation. However, the clinician is faced with the challenge of managing a patient caseload while remaining up-to-date on research that directly impacts their interventions.This course will provide an overview of TBI and TBI rehabilitation while highlighting recent advances in the science and management of survivors of moderate to severe TBI. Participants will leave with an awareness of the changing epidemiology of TBI, and the usefulness of multiple standardized assessment tools. Effectiveness of paradoxical medications that are being utilized to increase arousal of individuals in a minimally conscious state will be presented. Updates on indicators of positive outcome after TBI and prognostic models will be described to aid in goal establishment, guide treatment and prepare caregivers. Evidence updates on common clinical interventions, such as coma stimulation and body weight suppor...

Evidence-Based Rehabilitation Using Tai Chi

Brian Trzaskos, PT, LMT, CSCS, CMP, MI-C

The CDC reports that, "each year, 3 million older people are treated in emergency departments and over 800,000 patients are hospitalized because of falling, resulting in about $50 billion in medical costs related to non-fatal fall injuries and $754 million spent related to fatal falls." In older adults, falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries and fractures. While physical injuries associated with unintentional falls are well documented, the psychological costs are less obvious and more persistent. Studies reveal that up to 50% of people with a fear of falling restrict or eliminate social and physical activity because of that fear. Presently, the combination of an aging population, shrinking third party reimbursements, and Medicare non-payment for hospital related falls and traumas guarantees that cost effective and high return on investment services will become of increasing value.Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese exercise method, requiring no special equipment and shown to improve cognitive skills, memory, psychological wellness, strength, flexibility, immune function, and balance; and is now being advocated by the CDC and Harvard Medical School for fall prevention and functional improvement programs. This interactive 6-hour course offers participants the opportunity to experience the practice and principles of Tai Chi as they apply to balance and functional rehabilitation. Upon completion, attendees will have new, effective, evidence-based, and insurance reim...

The Fundamentals of Therapeutic and Kinesiology Taping

William Oswald PT, DPT, OCS

Improve your effectiveness in hundreds of clinical conditions with a rehabilitative taping technique that is safe for populations ranging from pediatric to geriatric. Kinesiology taping facilitates the body's natural healing process while providing support and stability to muscles and joints without restricting movement. Its ability to lift the skin off the neural and sensory receptors provides therapeutic benefit that can be worn for several days. The effects can include enhancing muscle function, improving circulation, providing pain relief, and repositioning of a subluxed joint.Through an integrated format of lecture and hands-on labs, you will review the evidence for therapeutic and kinesiology taping, and learn specific taping protocols that can be quickly integrated into practice. Kinesiology tape can be a valuable clinical tool used in conjunction with other treatments and modalities to have immediate positive effects on movement and performance, while reducing pain and improving clinical outcomes for your clients and patients.HighlightsApplying evidence for therapeutic and kinesiology tapingIndications and contraindications of taping for various conditions.Hands-on labs for taping the spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, and ankleCombine kinesiology taping in conjunction with other treatments and modalities to achieve immediate functional resultsMaster the fundamentals and indications of specific taping protocols that can be quickly integrated into practice

A Comprehensive Approach to Sports Rehab

Joseph Villena, PT, MPT, OCS, CSCS, COMT

Now more than ever, people are more active and are participating in athletic and recreational activities ranging from running to extreme sports resulting in a number of orthopedic injuries. Expectations in the rehabilitation of these injuries are to utilize an evidence-based approach to develop appropriate exercise programs. Therefore, it is imperative that the orthopedic rehab professional have a strong understanding of all aspects of evidence-based research on exercise and sports science to create the link from injury to recovery to full return to sport.This innovative course combines basic concepts of physics, biomechanics, and physiology with movement analysis to help participants develop sport specific training programs. Participants will learn how to systematically break down fundamental athletic movements using current research, in depth discussions, and video analysis. Evidence-based protocols for upper and lower extremity return to sport will be introduced as well as the concept of periodization. Participants will return to their practice with multiple tools to maximize recovery from injury for every patient from the weekend warrior to the professional athlete.HighlightsDevelop sound clinical reasoning strategies utilizing a combination of exercise physiology, biomechanics, and evidence based research to develop more comprehensive strength and endurance exercises for rehabilitationBecome a movement expert! Enhance your clinical skills to systematically break down com...

Spinal Cord Injury Rehab

Ryan Daywalt, PT, MPT

Spinal cord injuries affect nearly 18,000 new Americans each year. At any one time, nearly 300,000 people in the United States are living with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI). With increasingly high first year mortality rates, and a steadily decreasing length of stay in both acute care and rehab settings, it is our responsibility as healthcare providers to educate ourselves in order to more effectively treat this population. Physical and occupational therapists have the potential to make the single, biggest impact on the functional outcomes of these patients, drastically improving both quality and quantity of life post-injury.This one-day course will equip clinicians with the skills needed to better understand the diagnosis and accompanying comorbidities patients with SCI may experience. Course participants will gain valuable hands-on*experience with transfer techniques, interventional strategies, and wheelchair skills. Two separate lab* sessions will provide attendees the opportunity to practice techniques on one another. Following this course, therapists will immediately be able to integrate the techniques and ideas learned to more effectively meet the needs of their patients with SCI.*Hands on lab will be modified for Web based delivery formats into recorded demonstrationsHighlightsImmediately improve your knowledge of spinal cord injury management and treatment with early interventional strategies you can put into use tomorrow!Best practices for lifts, transfer techniques, and w...

Evidence-Based Advances in Lower Extremity Rehabilitation

Andy Parsons PT, DPT, OCS

Evidence-based practice continues to push physical therapy forward in lower extremity (LE) evaluation and treatment. LE conditions are among the most prevalent in orthopedic physical therapy. The prevalence rates of common conditions include anterior knee pain 25%, patellar tendinopathy ranges from 5.8% - 22.8%, and achilles tendinopathy ranges from 7-9% in runners. As the population ages, osteoarthritis (OA) becomes even more important with 40% of people over age 65 having symptoms related to OA. Advancements related to conditions like tendinopathy, arthritis, femoral acetabular impingement, plantar fasciosis, patellofemoral pain, and bursitis dictate that today's rehabclinician stay abreast to latest research in order to optimize outcomes with their patients.This hands-on course aims to advance a clinician's understanding of the guidelines related to the hip, knee, and foot/ankle to facilitate differential diagnosis/medical screening for a hierarchical approach to intervention prescription producing more efficient and valuable care. Hands-on instruction and interactive presentation will allow attendees to analyze and implement LE evaluation and intervention strategies that can be utilized immediately in the clinic.HighlightsDevelop advanced examination strategies for differential diagnosis for the most common lower extremity conditionsImprove your ability to properly load and progress lower extremity exercise programsImmediately improve clinical reasoning and examination of...

A Therapist's Evidence-Based Approach to Acute and ICU Care Rehab

John Gwilliam, PT, MPT, MHA, CWS

Deciding whether to provide therapy or to withhold treatment is a question that presents itself to an individual therapist on a daily basis. In acute care and other settings, the presentation of the complex patient often creates a difficult scenario to make evidence-based decisions. The ultimate goal of each clinician is to provide every patient with effective interventions to help them progress to their highest functional level. This course will present current evidence- based information and protocols to help assist every clinician to make the best decision for each of their patients.Through a multi-media course and interactive discussion, each participant will review key anatomy and physiological principles to help create a solid background for patient assessment and effective interventions to improve patient progression and discharge outcomes. By using key indicators from cardiovascular status, medication use, comorbidities and diagnoses, participants will learn skills to enhance their decision-making ability to improve patient outcomes. Participants will leave having a better understanding of improving their role along with a clear multi-disciplinary approach of therapists working together to improve outcomes in the acute care setting.HighlightsTake away quick assessment techniques to interpret critical vs. non-critical lab values and vital signsGain step-by-step protocols to early mobilization for improving upon progression of the cardiovascular and pulmonary and other ...

Treating the Critically Ill in the Acute Care and ICU

Catherine Valentino OTR/L OTD, MHSc, MAAL, BS

With an increasing number of patient discharges happening from acute care to home settings it is imperative for clinicians in the acute care field to provide the most up- to-date and impactful treatments possible. According to the Academy of Acute Care Physical Therapy, "83%" of therapy recommendations are met during the discharge process (2018). This indicates significant responsibility to rehab clinicians for providing the most beneficial information possible. Much of the groundwork of what a patient can achieve is implemented during the acute care phase of healthcare.This interactive course will cover critical components associated with our compromised patients in the acute hospital setting. Participants will focus on understanding what is happening from a transdisciplinary perspective and how best to achieve functional outcomes. Hands-on experience will be achieved in both testing and treatment components during labs. Current research and techniques will be the focus of the day to put our best foot forward in acute patient care.HighlightsThe most effective evidence-based intervention approaches for acute care/ICU management that are applicable to use with medically complex clientsPractice dozens of testing measures and treatments that are the most appropriate for use in the acute care/ICU settingImprove clinical decision-making from early mobilization to discharge and documentationMultiple hands-on labs to allow clinicians to try evaluations and treatments throughout the ...

Innovative Treatments for the Hand, Wrist, and Elbow

Tambra Marik, OT/L, OTD, CHT

The elbow, forearm, and wrist comprise the lower half of a biological erector set. Together they can perform extremely gentle and precise actions such as writing a letter, painting a picture, threading a needle, or playing a violin. When patients suffer an injury to the hand, wrist or elbow, getting the right treatment is extremely important. And, for those who suffer chronic, painful conditions, proper care is critical in relieving discomfort, restoring function and mobility, and most of all, improving your patient's quality of life.This interactive, lab-based workshop will advance participant proficiency beyond traditional intervention techniques towards contemporary, innovative, and effective treatment strategies. The interventions introduced in this course will emphasize evidence, occupational, and technological-based practice for common upper extremity conditions. Participants will leave the course with a diverse and augmented skill set which enhances their expertise in patient care. Participants and their clients will benefit from the therapeutic dividends gained from elastic taping, manual techniques, pattern fabrication for basic hand orthoses, cognitive training, exercises, and utilization of technology to complement traditional therapy interventions. This course is designed to have immediate clinical application for orthopedic and neurological conditions of the upper extremity.HighlightsLearn clinical examination and provocative testing techniques for the hand, wris...

Therapeutic Exercise and Manual Therapy

Alex Siyufy DPT, ATC, SCS, Cert. MDT, Cert. DN

Do you know which exercises will "best" recruit the rotator cuff musculature? The gluteals? This workshop is designed to provide the medical professional with an understanding of research findings combined with clinically relevant therapeutic exercise and manual therapy techniques. This workshop will provide extensive hands-on lab time in order to practice and refine your manual therapy skills. While exercises are often beneficial, individuals are often assigned too many exercises with excessive parameters and this can be ineffective.This workshop will enhance the clinician's critical reasoning process by providing the most recent advances to further enhance evidence-informed practice. Each participant will receive a comprehensive workshop manual with multiple summary tables that detail "take home" findings from the research studies. Expand your toolbox and learn manual therapy techniques to deactivate trigger points. The exercises and manual therapy techniques taught can be immediately implemented into practice with patients, athletes and clients.HighlightsEffectively combine manual therapy and therapeutic exercises to improve functional outcomes in patients and optimize reimbursementPractice myofascial release techniques that relieve pain and improve ROM in your patients in 60-90 secondsPractical and creative exercises for the shoulder impingement and the rotator cuff to mobilize the joint and improve functional reachWorkshop manual that spans the research and includes cust...

Evidence-Based Edema, Skin, and Wound Care

Dana Davis, PT, DPT, CWS

As a large percentage of our population ages, coupled with an increase in comorbidities such as diabetes and cardiovascular complications, it is logical to estimate that the number of chronic wounds will continue to accelerate. Therefore, knowledge and implementation of evidence-based wound care is critical to improving the outcomes for this population. Not only is it vital to provide the best quality of care for the patient, it is also critical for reimbursement from Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance companies.This one-day workshop will provide you with the knowledge base and tools to provide advanced, up to date wound assessment. It will equip you with clinical skills important for the wound care professional in multiple environments. In addition to improving your knowledge base for clinical wound care and efficient treatment strategies, you will also be able to identify different types of compression wraps, advanced wound dressings, debridement techniques, and the importance of Arterial Brachial Index (ABI). This workshop will also help guide you in identification of wound etiologies, tissue composition, debridement techniques, and practical strategies for implementation in the clinical setting. Participants will learn how to incorporate evidence-based assessments into a plan of care and establish appropriate and measurable goals to track progression of wounds, as well as prevention of new wounds.*Hands on lab will be modified for Web based delivery formats into re...

Assessment Strategies and Evidence-Based Solutions for Low Vision

T. Daniel Walters, PT, DPT, GCS

Low vision is defined as visual impairment that cannot be corrected with standard refractive, therapeutic, or surgical methods. Physical and occupational therapy play an integral role in improving functional independence and enhancing remaining vision to prevent or minimize disability. Twelve million Americans are living with age-related macular degeneration and 3.36 million Americans are living with Glaucoma; two of the most common eye diseases resulting in low vision and blindness in older adults. Visual impairment in older adults often leads to negative impacts on overall health and significant difficulty with ADLsThis workshop will provide attendees with the skills needed to effectively assess and treat those affected by low vision. This course aims to add value to clinical practice and clients overall health by improving objectively measured outcomes, increasing ADL independence, preventing falls, and functional decline. This workshop employs a wide variety of teaching and learning methods to maximize retention and carryover for next-day application into clinical practice. This course includes problem-based learning, hands on labs, lectures, videos, and interactive discussion. As clinicians, we should always remember that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!HighlightsExplain four common age-related and pathologic changes affecting older adults that result in low vision.Employ five assessment tools to identify vision related impairments resulting in mobility ...

Evaluation and Treatment of Vestibular Disorders

Jean A. McConnell, MS, PT, ATC

According to the Vestibular Disorders Association, nearly100 million Americans have experienced a vestibular problem at some point in their lives. There are numerous causes of vestibular dysfunction and the symptoms are many. Head trauma, cervical dysfunction, soft tissue and bony malalignment, and bacterial and viral infections are just some of the causative factors relating to headache, dizziness and vertigo related syndromes. This workshop is designed to enhance participants' awareness of the various indicators relating to headaches, dizziness, vertigo, gait and balance dysfunctions. Individuals with a diagnosed vestibular problem who also exhibit symptoms have an incidence of falling that is 12 times that of the general population. Overall, the cost of medical care for patients with balance disorders exceeds $1 billion per year in the US. Getting effective treatment is frequently complicated by the challenge of diagnosing the specific source of the problem and finding clinicians with the knowledge and experience to treat these individual co-morbid diagnoses.This workshop will identify the broad based aspects relating to the complicated dizzy/vertigo/headache/balance compromised patient. There will be an overview of the multiple diagnoses and many syndromes associated with complicated patients who exhibit potential vestibular dysfunction. Participants will learn to combine practical assessment techniques with effective treatment options including different manual therapy a...

Rehab for the Functional Aging Adult

Andrew Morgan, PT, DPT, MBA

The population of older adults in the United States continues to grow, but many of those adults are staying active well into their 80s. Studies show that an active lifestyle can slow the "normal" age-related changes that older adults frequently experience. Reducing fall risk and improving functional independence are essential roles of the home health therapist. Stay current with effective treatment approaches to improve outcomes and your patients' quality of life.This course will explain that while no longer playing football, the geriatric "athlete" can be viewed through a sports medicine lens. Clinicians just need to understand the"sport". This practical one-day course will provide easy to implement therapeutic exercises and interventions in order to yield optimal outcomes. Participants will learn through the use of lab* techniques, case studies, and problem-based learning strategies. Clinicians will return to their clinics or patients' homes with new ways to progress patients and improve long- term adherence to exercise programs.*Hands on lab will be modified for Web based delivery formats into recorded demonstrationsHighlightsUnderstand "normal" age-related changes and what we can do to slow themImmediate, quick, and easy modifications to therapeutic exercises to progress patients and improve adherenceGain a multidisciplinary approach of assessment to get the most out of your treatment for issues such as bariatrics, neurological disorders, respiratory issues, cancer, chron...

A Rehab Professional's Guide to Pharmacology

Chad Hensel, PT, DPT, MHS, CSCS

While pharmacology is a critical component in the medical model of patient management, it is also one of the weakest areas of learning in most education programs for rehabilitation professionals. Thus, rehab specialists, unfortunately, often do not have the necessary background knowledge to understand and compensate for the ways that different medications may be negatively affecting their clients' outcomes. Despite this, they are frequently asked to document and report on their patient's medications!This essential one-day workshop will increase attendees' comfort level with working around medication effects by presenting key information on pharmacology. Lab time will include review of drug commercial effectiveness and medical chart reviews. This course will cover the more popular and commonly encountered pharmacologics in rehab settings, including pain and cardiac medications, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxers, and antibiotics as well as vitamin and mineral supplements in relation to this topic. Side effects that can affect rehabilitation through altered coordination, balance, cognition and swallowing will be specifically discussed, along with drug interaction risks. In addition, all attendees will receive a practical, quick-reference handout on pharmacology specifically developed for rehabilitation professionals. After completing this course, attendees will see improved results in their daily practice through their recognition of patients' medication effects and ready kno...

Evidence-Based Techniques to Build Your Parkinson's Disease Toolbox

Meredith Roberts, PT, DPT

Patients diagnosed with Parkinson's disease can get better and stay better; however, no two people with Parkinson's are alike. This presents unique challenges to the therapist spanning physical, emotional, cognitive and socialdomains. All too often therapists are not equipped with the proper knowledge on how to adapt and create the most optimal assessment and exercise plan for patients with Parkinson's disease. With the proper knowledge, the therapist can obtain consistent positive outcomes and empower your clients to live their best life.This hands-on workshop will provide therapists with practical and effective tools to make a difference the next session with a patient with Parkinson's disease. Participants will understand the barriers to obtaining positive outcomes and leap over them with hands-on application, case study review and discussion. Participants will leave with the confidence to produce evidence-based interventions that will improve therapeutic outcomes while working with patients with Parkinson's disease.HighlightsImmediately improve your clients functional mobility and ADLs using practical and effective treatment techniquesBecome knowledgeable of the latest research and pharmacological considerations for Parkinson's diseaseLearn how to convert your assessment into successful treatment strategies that produce positive outcomes in each sessionHands-on lab training to address the most challenging symptoms including freezing of gait, duel tasking and other physica...

What Every Therapist Needs to Know About Dysphagia

Karen Sheffler, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S

This course will review the swallowing basics through use of dynamic, multi-media lectures and hands-on labs.Labs will explore oral-sensorimotor examinations, case history taking, thickening liquids, food consistency testing, complying with the new IDDSI standards, and more. Participants will dive into challenging ethical and end-of-life topics in small group discussions. Therapists should no longer feel like a novice or too scared to ask your questions during a more advanced course setting or in online forums. Let's answer those questions and provide resources to guide your quest for more training. Our aim is to take you from "not knowing what you do not know," (which in medicine is pretty scary) - to knowing your strengths and weaknesses in the dysphagia knowledge base. We want to provide a framework to help you fill in your training gaps in the future, so that you can provide your best evidence based patient-centered care possible.HighlightsImprove your ability to perform thorough swallowing evaluations; maximize the utility of the clinical bedside swallowing evaluation to develop hypotheses that will guide further testingDevelop comprehensive evidence-based practice treatment programs, which are compensatory and rehabilitative to improve patient outcomes.Utilize the most appropriate instrumental swallowing assessments such as Video fluoroscopy (MBSS) and Video endoscopy (FEES)Aspiration pneumonia prevention and aspiration precautions strategies you can use the next day to...

A Clinician's Guide to Skilled Rehabilitation Documentation

Lynda Jennings, OTR, RAC-CT, CDP

On October 1st, 2019, the new Patient Driven PaymentModel (PDPM) replaced the Resource Utilization Group, Version IV for Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF). PDPM improves the accuracy and appropriateness of payments for classifying patients into payment groups based on specific, data-driven patient characteristics, while simultaneously reducing administrative burden. As a result, therapy minutes no longer are utilized to classify SNF residents into Resource Utilization Groups (RUGs). Therapy services no longer are the primary driver of reimbursement. In its place is a new model where the focus is not on the number of minutes of service provided, but on classifying the resident on patient characteristics, outcomes, and quality versus quantity of rehab services.What has not changed is the importance of skilled therapy documentation to support the services provided to our patients. This relevant 1-day course will educate the clinician on the basics of PDPM, the key components of documentation and the importance of utilizing evidence-based tools to support skilled care. In addition, this workshop will review the importance of the interdisciplinary process of consistently painting a picture of the clinical needs of the patient as well as providing documentation that supports the content of the Minimum Data Set (MDS)tool.*Hands on lab will be modified for Web based delivery formats into recorded demonstrationsHighlightsImmediately improve your knowledge of the new reimbursement model...

Evidence-Based Strategies for Clients with Dementia

Lisa Young Milliken, MA, CCC-SLP, FNAP, CDP, RAC- CT

5.8 million people in the U.S. are living with dementia, and this number is expected to be 3 times greater by 2050. Thus, people with dementia will continue to be a significant part of our therapy caseloads, so it is important that we understand the evidence of how therapy can be most beneficial to these clients. Equally important is the ongoing education for our healthcare team members and our clients' family members. Such evidence promotes the use of each client's unique characteristics, life history, functional abilities, and strength- based approaches. Clinicians who are empowered with the recommended resources and understanding of such strategies will be equipped to make a significant difference in the lives of people who are living with dementia.This workshop will share comprehensive resources with all participants and include the application of evidence-based research for day to day practical strategies. Each segment will include hands-on approaches and interactive discussion to maximize skills for strategies that can immediately be put into practice. Participants will be able to implement such approaches with their clients at all levels, stages, and types of dementia.HighlightsCognitive, motor, and psychosocial differences between different types of diseases causing dementiaStrength-based tasks and compensatory strategies based on a person's assessed stage of dementiaRecommended pain assessments when a person with dementia is non-verbal and is in middle or late stages...

Differentiating Sensory from Behavior

Joani M. Richardson, OTR/L

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, emotional and behavioral disorders affect 10 - 15% of children globally and most follow a developmental course that starts early in life. Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a complex disorder of the brain that affects developing children and adults. At least 1 in 20 people in the general population may be affected by SPD. It is imperative that therapists, teachers, clinicians, parents, and administrators understand behavior and sensory differences and have the tools necessary to be proactive and make a difference in the positive growth of children.This fast-paced, practical, and evidence-based seminar will help you gain a full understanding of sensory differences and how they relate to challenging behaviors. The use of interactive labs and video case studies will give participants on opportunity to apply and practice concepts discussed and prepare you to use the strategies immediately and effectively. You will leave with a framework to guide your problem solving and decision making and with intervention strategies for day- to-day success. This workshop will help you put the "PIECES" together to discourage negative behaviors and to foster growth and skill development in all children.HighlightsUnderstand the body's seven sensory systems and their impact on the behavior of childrenEstablish a definitive definition of behavior and utilize evidence-based approaches for behavioral interventionParticipate in interactive labs de...

Reflex Integration

Robyn Otty, OTD, OTR/L, BCPR, FAOTA

Children with and without existing diagnoses are presenting with sensory and motor challenges due to persistent primitive reflexes. These children present with coordination, balance, and motor challenges that influence their ability to fully engage in meaningful play. Due to the influence on motor development, the presence of reflexes also influences a child's ability to fully participate in their home and school environments.This relevant course emphasizes the need to evaluate the presence of reflexes, motor development, and sensory differences to develop an effective plan of treatment. Various hands-on opportunities to trial assessment tools and intervention strategies will be provided. We will also discuss the best practices for documenting treatment to support high impact interventions and illustrate the need for therapy services. This course is designed for physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists who work with children to develop additional solutions to influence motor development and skill acquisition.*Hands on lab will be modified for Web based delivery formats into recorded demonstrationsHighlightsEffective, evidence-based interventions for all sensory domainsDifferentiating problematic sensory vs. motor difficulties using effective approaches to address persistent reflexesInteractive assessment strategies of reflexes and predict the influence onfunctional activitiesEvidence-supported treatments to influence activity performance ...

Essentials for Assessing and Treating the Pediatric Orthopedic and Sports Patient

Eric Bellm, PT, DPT, OCS

Treating our pediatric population more effectively not only allows us to alleviate their pain and return them back to activities quicker, but it also helps us make them better movers into their adult years. There are many differences that are easily noticed between the adult and pediatric population. It is essential that health care providers know all the ins and outs of their pediatric population to ensure they are giving the safest and most effective care. The pediatric patient has many variables to consider, including the ever-changing musculoskeletal system and the developing psychosocial system that play a major role in their healthcare.This workshop will equip attendees with the latest evidence-based evaluation and treatment skills needed to effectively treat their pediatric patients. Lecture sessions will highlight the essentials that clinicians need when working with pediatric spine, upper extremity, and lower extremity patients. Special focus will be placed on lab sessions, which will equip attendees with tools for assessing and treating patients when they return to the clinic the next day.*Hands on lab will be modified for Web based delivery formats into recorded demonstrationsHighlightsExpand your practice to better treat pediatric patients with both orthopedic and sports injuriesImprove your evaluation and diagnosing skills by practicing the most evidence-based tools for your pediatric populationEffective exercise and manual treatments to get your pediatric patien...

Evidence-Based Strategies for Infant Positioning and Handling

Carla Pister, PT

According to the March of Dimes, in 2016 premature births increased for the first time in eight years to 9.6% or almost 1 in 10 babies. As therapists we are now confronted with even more medically complex infants many of which will suffer from motor, vision and language delays. It is critical that we as clinicians be equipped with the knowledge to influence development as early as possible as it will have a lasting effect throughout their entire life. Many therapists have been introduced to the benefits of using tummy time, however, many clinicians knowledge of strategies and benefits to have a lasting effect on many issues are limited.In this one-day, hands-on course attendees will be able to look at the uses and benefits of tummy time on motor, vision, and language development. This course will specifically guide participants through hands-on activities on how tummy time has a direct correlation to motor activities such as crawling, jumping, catching a ball, hand writing, reading, drooling, feeding, articulation and vision. Participants will seethe impact vision plays in all aspects of development and how tummy time is the first and best position to improve a baby's ability to use their eyes together. Attendees will also review documented case studies on how simple eye convergence exercises can impact how a child functions as they develop. Therapists will leave with the knowledge to educate parents of the benefits of tummy time that will empower them to follow through in th...

Pediatric Feeding Disorders

Kathryn K. Basco, M.A. CCC-SLP

Research indicates that 25% of children present with some form of a feeding disorder. For children with developmental delays this number increases to 80%. Disordered feeding can be the result of oral-motor dysfunction, sensory challenges, medical conditions, behavior, or a combination of these conditions. From infants to toddlers, feeding challenges can also have a profound effect on the child/caregiver relationship. Using a multi-disciplinary approach, practitioners can use assessment information to develop a comprehensive intervention plan addressing feeding challenges to support positive outcomes for the child and family.This interactive course will provide participants with the knowledge and skills to conduct a feeding assessment and identify specific feeding challenges in infants and toddlers. The basis of feeding disorders will be explored including oral motor dysfunction and sensory-based challenges. Picky eating and behavior components will also be addressed. Participants will leave this one-day course with practical strategies and intervention techniques for improved bottle and breast feeding, cup drinking, expanding a child's food repertoire, tolerance of different tastes, textures, and consistencies, and support of oral motor skill development. Nutrition and medical considerations will be discussed for the complicated feeder including food allergies, food sensitivities, and weaning from tube feedings. An array of nipples, bottles, cups, and utensils will be availab...

Early Childhood Interventions & Autism Spectrum Disorder

Shanon Gibson, Ed.D.

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates the prevalence of autism in the United States as 1 in 88 children, the CDCs number does not take into account younger children who may not be receiving medical or educational support services. When these children are included, the number can be as high as 1 in 50. While diagnostic tools continue to advance, children are often not identified early enough to benefit from the positive impact of proven early intervention strategies. It is widely accepted that early assessment and intervention has far reaching benefits as these children develop the pre-academic, socio-emotional and behavioral skills needed for later success.This workshop provides an insight into the diagnostic process that is used with young children who demonstrate atypical developmental patterns. A variety of treatment approaches, and the research supporting each approach will be discussed and interventions using the approaches will be practiced in an interactive lab-based format throughout the day. This workshop examines issues regarding emotional regulation, sensory processing, communication, and socialization. Strategies to support the development of positive replacement behaviors will be presented. This workshop will provide you with effective teaching strategies backed by the latest research, giving you the tools you need to facilitate successful early intervention in pre-school children on the spectrum.HighlightsInteractive labs including senso...

Early Intervention for Brain and Motor Skill Development

Colleen Williams, PT

Early intervention includes children from birth to three years old. The efficacy of early intervention therapies has been studied and proven to help children reach their true potential. Current knowledge of brain development in the child is rapidly changing. Researchers are discovering the powerful influence of the cerebellum in all aspects of development. Children face many different challenges today than they did in the past. These changes in the life of a child can affect their ability to achieve motor milestones, visual milestones and to create a foundation for future growth and development.This course will provide physical and occupational therapists strategies to assess and treat the child in early intervention. As your knowledge of typical brain and motor development improves, your treatment sessions will be more effective. Practical and highly effective strategies will be provided to improve your confidence and success in working with children in early intervention.HighlightsImprove knowledge of brain development and how it relates to the treatment of infants and young childrenConfidently assess and treat a young child with a clear understanding of typical motor developmentPractical assessment of primitive and postural reactions, and their influence on motor development and motor delaysEffective treatment strategies to improve infant positioning and integrate primitive reflexesLearn practical techniques for the development of motor skills

Autism Across the Spectrum

Joani M. Richardson, OTR/L

In 2012 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that 1 in 88 children were diagnosed with Autism. In March of 2014 that estimate increased to 1 in 68 U.S. children, a 30% increase in two years. As this population grows into adulthood they need to be prepared to live and function independently in the community and to be gainfully employed. If you have met one child with Autism, you have met one child with Autism. Though the core deficits are the same, the kids are all very different. It is imperative that therapists, clinicians, teachers, parents and administrators understand this population and have the tools and strategies necessary to be proactive and make a difference in the development of each individual child.This fast-paced, practical and evidence-based workshop will help participants gain a full understanding of the world of Autism. Participants will leave with a framework to guide their problem-solving and decision-making along with intervention strategies for day-to-day success. Extensive use of examples, pictures and anecdotes will prepare you to use the strategies immediately and effectively. From low to high functioning, this seminar will help participants put the pieces together to discourage negative behaviors and to foster growth and skill development in children of all ages with Autism Spectrum Disorder.HighlightsSolutions to help children reach the next skill level socially, academically and behaviorallyEffectively foster independence in chil...

Essential Assessment and Treatment Strategies for Pediatric Orthopedic Dysfunction

Crystal Duda, MSPT

There are approximately 200 hospitals for children in theUS. For many families who cannot access their rehab services, they must rely on local outpatient clinics to provide therapy services for their children. Pediatric orthopedics is a challenging field relying on knowledge of developmental norms and evidence-based treatment intervention. Successful outcomes in pediatrics depend on clinicians prescribing customized stretching, strengthening, and positioning strategies that children will be successful at performing.This one of a kind workshop will review the developmental progression of motor skills and supply clinicians with ideas and resources to implement immediately with their pediatric patients. Attendees will also tune up their observation skills related to posture, functional mobility, and gait to help understand the need for further referrals to medical specialties such as orthopedics, neurology, and rheumatology. As practicing rehabilitation professionals working with young patients, when outcomes count, understanding and treating children respecting their age and stage, instead of as "little adults" is everything.HighlightsTransform your clinical decision making to help pediatric patients with orthopedic diagnoses including best practices for torticollis, scoliosis and gait abnormalitiesAssess developmental norms for functional movement patterns, joint alignment, and mobility to build better, more effective treatment plans specific to pediatric patientsRefresh your ...

Treating Torticollis

Kim Lephart, PT, DPT, MBA, PCS

Congenital muscular torticollis (CMT) is the third most common congenital musculoskeletal anomaly in infants. Positional plagiocephaly may contribute to torticollis and there has been an increase in occurrence since the 1992 American Academy of Pediatrics' Back-to-Sleep campaign. Early intervention professionals are on the front line of treating children with torticollis and plagiocephaly, whether in the neonatal intensive care unit, the baby nursery at hospitals, and especially when visiting homes in the early intervention setting; early identification and appropriate treatment can improve outcomes for these infants.This interactive workshop provides resources and education to understand the etiology, evaluation, and treatment of infants with CMT. The Section of Pediatrics of the APTA's Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG) is discussed and applied to determine appropriate interventions, guide referrals to other specialists, and determine when discharge is appropriate. Participants will discuss cases, group problem solve, and practice use of tools for evaluating this population. Upon completion of this workshop, participants will be familiar with the CMT Clinical Practice Guidelines and have the proper tools for evaluating and treating infants with CMT.HighlightsHands-on labs on safe and effective manual stretching, positioning, and documentation of neck range of motion via arthrodial protractorAlternative interventions such as Kinesiology taping fortorticollisEffective infant s...

Functional Amputee Rehabilitation

Daniel J. Lee, PT, DPT, GCS

It is estimated that 185,000 individuals will undergo a limb amputation each year with hospitalization costs of $8.3 billion dollars per year. Being able to effectively manage the rehabilitation of individuals with limb loss can maximize functional mobility and minimize preventable secondary complications. Care for the individual with limb loss spans all clinical settings and requires the knowledge of both sound rehabilitation principles as well as that of the various prosthetic hardware configurations. To provide the best care and prevention from complications such as wound development or even re-amputation, specific training is required to effectively care for the patient with limb loss.This hands-on workshop will teach you examination, intervention, and goal setting strategies specific to the limb loss population that can be applied immediately after the course is completed. Through hands-on labs you will learn how to properly care for the residual limb, problem solve prosthetic fit issues, and modify common positions to emphasize functional postures. By the end of the course participants will be able to examine and treat an adult patient with lower limb loss in any setting you work in.HighlightsImmediately improve your ability to evaluate and treat individuals with limb loss with evidence-based examination and intervention skillsLearn the top 10 red flags to successful recovery in individuals with limb lossEasily implement techniques and skills learned in this class to th...

Therapists Rehabilitation Strategies for Dementia Patients

Anysia Ensslen-Boggs, Ed.D., M.S., CCC-SLP

Dementia is a broad term for a decline in mental ability that is significant enough to interfere with a person's daily life. Over 5 million Americans are living with dementia; someone in the United States develops Alzheimer's disease every 65 seconds. This number is expected to double by 2030, and triple by 2050. Since there is no cure for dementia, this disease results in a progressive decline of cognitive and functional skills. Many individuals with dementia also experience behavioral changes, decreased safety awareness, difficulty eating/swallowing, and decreased independence completing ADLs. This course is designed for therapists and healthcare professionals so that they may improve outcomes, safety, and quality of life for individuals and their caregivers living with dementia.This course will facilitate learning about functional and evidence-based techniques, interventions, and education/training strategies. Participants will learn about assessments and screening tools which may be used at all stages of progressive cognitive decline, and how to use those tools to develop individualized treatment plans. Emphasis will be placed on interdisciplinary treatment, documentation challenges, improving patient safety, and caregiver education.HighlightsTypes of dementia and the neuroscience behind themConfidently examine physical and cognitive implications of dementia in order to more effectively implement evidence-based treatment approachesDevelop functional treatment plans for th...

Fall Prevention Strategies

Brian Trzaskos PT, LMT, CSCS, CMP, MI-C

The CDC, government programs, and major medical systems believe that fall risk is a growing epidemic with more than one third of adults over 65 years old falling annually and 30% of those people suffering moderate to severe injuries. In 2012, the total cost for fall related injuries in older adults alone was 30 billion dollars. Integrative fall prevention strategies are multidimensional, simultaneously addressing multiple fall risk factors and leading to more effective, cost reducing and sustainable patient outcomes. Over 127 million Americans seek complementary and integrative health care services annually and the most successful clinicians know that meeting this growing need offers a huge advantage in providing superior quality care.Integrative rehabilitation professionals realize that the body and mind function inseparably in all human activity. This insightful and innovative program will transform traditional fall prevention thinking into a more holistic concept of care by outlining a simple set of integrative rehabilitation principles. Throughout the day, participants will practice research supported integrative movement and manual strategies that can be immediately applied in diverse clinical settings resulting in lower cost and highly effective balance enhancement outcomes.HighlightsImmediately apply integrative thought, movement, and manual strategies that prevent falls in diverse clinical settingsMaster the four pillars of integrative neuromuscular balanceExperience ...

Strengthening Core Stability

Lori Duncan, PT, DPT, MTC, CPT

Mobility on stability is one of the most important aspects of efficient and pain-free function and Pilates is a powerful tool to accomplish this concept. With most exercises "off the ground," Pilates safely teaches dissociation of movement, intrinsic stability and effective breathing that will improve balance, posture, gait and decrease fall risk. Each exercise has multiple benefits including stability, ROM and strength allowing the patient to spend less time on HEP while improving functional outcomes. Pilates is magic for the neuromuscular system, effectively teaching patients how to move their body through space for optimal function.This one-day, interactive workshop will teach over 50 exercises for optimal dissociation of movement with emphasis on trunk stability for safe weight-bearing activity. Participants will learn how to apply the 6 Pilates Principles to all therapeutic exercises to enhance home exercise plan compliance and optimize reimbursement. Modifications and progressions to each exercise will be demonstrated with hands-on lab-based learning and assessment. Participants will increase their knowledge of breathing, true core activation and be able to teach their patients the next day.HighlightsInnovative, proven methods to strengthen the core inpatients with common orthopedic injuries, post-operative rehab, fall risks, and chronic painEffective, evidence-based therapeutic exercises for the whole body to improve posture, balance, and gaitImmediately improve your c...

Functional Testing & Assessment for Older Adults

T. Daniel Walters PT, DPT, GCS

Disability varies greatly among the older adult population. This variability creates challenges in identifying appropriate outcome measures that can accurately reflect performance. Errors in clinical decision-making can lead to greater disability, higher healthcare costs, and the inability to justify skilled service. It is anticipated that third party payers will move toward performance-based reimbursement, so it is important that clinicians begin to maximize clinical outcomes by using practical assessment tools for this rapidly growing older population. The ability to recognize which tools may best reflect progress through comprehensive examination and assessment is vital in justifying skilled services, reducing disability, reducing healthcare costs and improving quality of life among older adults.This workshop features lecture presentations, photos and videos, live demonstrations, interactive hands-on labs, quick reference handouts, case studies and open discussion. It will enable clinicians to identify practical outcome measures that will accurately reflect the effectiveness of skilled service and exercise prescription on the various aging populations.Through assessment and interpretation of current evidence- based outcome measures, clinicians will be able to develop treatment plans, better predict needs of patients and maximize performance.HighlightsComprehensive testing measures that will quickly and accurately reflect performance in most clinical settings for various ag...

Arthritis, Osteoporosis, and Osteopenia

Jennifer Darby PT, DPT, GCS, CPAHA, CEEAA

It is now estimated that one-third of the United States population has reported having a musculoskeletal disease. With the prevalence of this disease continuing to grow, it is important that therapists are equipped to positively impact quality of life and function for these patients. While exercise prescriptions are a very important component of treatment, it is also critical that we understand the positive and negative impact that nutrition, diet, and medications can play in the progressions of patient outcomes. Gaining an understanding in this area will promote the best treatment plan possible for improving pain, posture and function.This relevant, one-day workshop will focus on a comprehensive approach to effectively treating common musculoskeletal disease. Participants will review the latest research, biology, and common patient populations at risk for these diseases. Nutrition, diet, and the digestive process will be analyzed so that an understanding can be gained of how to play a positive role in this area. Pharmacological considerations will be evaluated to help participants recognize how these can effect exercise treatment. Participants will leave having the best practices for assessment and treatment of patients with arthritis, osteoporosis and osteopenia. Participants will take away exercise and strengthening considerations that will promote functional improvement for pain, posture, flexibility and overall quality of life.HighlightsUtilizing the most optimal exercis...

Neurological Disorders

Catherine Valentino OTR/L, OTD, BS, MHS

This workshop will apply new research on the relationship of cognition in mobility to allow participants to truly develop successful clinical pathways. With the insurance focus on functional outcomes this course will provide a necessary bridge between medical complexities and functional applications. Healthcare providers are now, more than ever, asked to justify the personal meaning behind each episode of care. With this needed shift to more client-centered care is it vital that each clinician understands emerging research and be able to apply this client-centered focus to patients in their care.The relationship between cognition and movement has always been a complex and intricate one. Creating a foundations course which creates a holistic knowledge base for all clinicians will facilitate better plans of care, client understanding, and interdisciplinary communication which will allow the client to truly receive the best care possible. By developing a clear base of knowledge of not only the conditions, but also the complex relationship between cognition and mobility, participants will be able to create functionally based plans of care and therapy interventions that will be successful and meaningful for each client.HighlightsDifferentiate the anatomical and physiological understanding of what area of the brain are impacted with a diagnosis of CVA, Parkinson's and Multiple SclerosisConfidently assess your client to develop functional plans of care, interventions, and outcomesPr...

Vestibular Rehab & Balance Training unpublished

Karen Hogan-Curran, PT, DPT

According to the Vestibular Disorders Association, over 90 million Americans age 17 and older, have experienced a dizziness or balance problem at some point in their lives. Almost 8 million people in the US have a problem with balance that has lasted over 3 months and 2.5 million report a chronic dizziness problem. With the large amount of baby boomers entering "retirement age", there is increased concern about falling. Most people over the age of 70 report some problem with dizziness and balance and balance-related falls account for more than one-half of the accidental deaths in the elderly. In addition, individuals with a diagnosed vestibular problem who also exhibit symptoms have an incidence of falling that is 12 times that of the general population. Overall, the cost of medical care for patients with balance disorders exceeds $1 billion per year in the US. Getting effective treatment is frequently complicated by the challenge of diagnosing the specific source of the problem and finding clinicians with the knowledge and experience to treat these problems.This interactive workshop will cover the anatomy, physiology and function of the vestibular system and the vestibular system's important role in balance and mobility. It is designed to give therapists and clinicians basic essential information needed to assess and treat uncomplicated vestibular dysfunction as well as incidence, diagnosis and treatment of balance related disorders. Attendees will learn the various types of...