NeuroSpark Membership Dendrite Expansion Day Fall 2025

Course overview

The great variability in patient presentations requires the ability to progress and regress interventions to optimally fit their needs and reach the level of challenge required to change the brain. This 6-hour course will focus on translating key concepts from the evidence into strategies that can be easily implemented in any clinical setting. Neurologic-focused PTs, OTs, and assistants will participate live in person, working collaboratively to design interventions that enhance patient function and quality of life through an interdisciplinary approach. Educational activities will begin with interactive learning stations where participants gain hands-on experience practicing evidence-based strategies and treatment techniques. Three stations will be offered: 1. Implementation of virtual reality for sensory organization testing and treatment of balance and vestibular impairments. 2. Interventions with lower mobility clients, with emphasis on patient handling skills, assistive technology and environmental modifications. 3. Dexterity, ADL, and mobility training for clients with ataxia. Each station integrates principles of the OPTIMAL theory to guide motor learning and carryover. Building on these experiences, participants will then apply their skills to real clients, engaging in group-based movement analysis to identify key limitations and functional goals. Scheduled client cases include individuals with ataxia with balance impairments and spasticity with midline alignment impairments. Learners will complete pre- and post-intervention measurements, trial a range of strategies informed by their station practice, and reflect on outcomes throughout the day. Ongoing collaboration and guided discussion will reinforce the clinical reasoning process, supporting participants in developing effective, individualized treatment approaches. Primary Instructors: Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS, Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS, JJ Mowder-Tinney, PT, PhD, NCS, Briana Elson, OTR/L, BCPR, CBIS, Jamie Haines, PT, DScPT, NCS, Chris McElderry, PT, DPT, NCS