ADHD IN CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS, & ADULTS

Course overview

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects individuals across the lifespan and frequently presents alongside motor, sensory, emotional, and executive-function challenges that directly impact participation in physical therapy. Research shows that 30-50% of individuals with ADHD experience motor coordination difficulties, sensory processing challenges, and issues with self-regulation that influence functional mobility, exercise tolerance, balance, and participation in activities of daily living. Physical therapists play a key role in supporting these patients through movement-based interventions, therapeutic exercise, motor-learning strategies, and sensory-regulation techniques. This 6-hour live webinar provides a comprehensive overview of ADHD from childhood through adulthood, including neurobiology, diagnostic criteria, symptom evolution, psychosocial impacts, and evidence-based treatment strategies. Participants will examine multimodal care approaches including medication management, behavioral therapy, structured exercise programs, sensory-motor interventions, sleep optimization, and patient-family education. The program highlights the role of physical therapists in identifying ADHD-related motor and sensory impairments, implementing targeted treatment plans, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to improve attention, behavior regulation, motor coordination, executive function, and daily functioning. Upon completion, physical therapists will be better equipped to recognize ADHD-related challenges affecting therapy participation and outcomes, adapt treatment approaches, and support functional independence and quality of life for patients across age groups.