Treatment of the Hemiplegic Upper Extremity in Function: A Contemporary Practice of NDT Course

Course overview

During this two day course, the participant will learn about the principles and strategies of the Contemporary Practice of NDT along with current evidence-based clinical practice for adults with impairments resulting from stroke or traumatic brain injury. Clinical assessment and treatment strategies presented will be based on an understanding of the biomechanics and kinesiology of the shoulder girdle complex, postural control requirements for function and upper extremity task analysis. The participant will learn to identify (multi-system) impairments and utilize appropriate movement strategies for optimal treatment results. The emphasis will be on improving early use of the hemiparetic upper extremity for stabilization needed for postural control, early integration of the arm in bed mobility and transitional movements, along with early reach skills during meaningful and functional tasks to complete ADLs and IADLs. Lab will emphasize the application of tactile feedback to enhance effective movement strategies for the successful completion of these tasks. The course includes lecture, videotape presentations and a patient treatment demonstrated by the instructor to demonstrate the interactive process between task analysis and treatment intervention for the upper extremity in relation to the functional postural requirements. Therapeutic handling techniques utilized in treatment to address motor dysfunction will be demonstrated and practiced in interactive problem-solving laboratory sessions. The development of fine motor control of the hand are outside the scope of this introductory seminar.