Task Specific Electric Stimulation for the Upper Quarter

Course overview

Task-Specific Electric Stimulation for the Upper Quarter is a Level 1 course that focuses on using functional electrical stimulation for children diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP) at levels I-V and children with other neuromotor and neuromuscular disorders. This course emphasizes the upper quarter, an introduction to electric stimulation (ES) as a modality, and the use of the Continuum neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) unit. Day one focuses on learning concepts of ES and how it affects children. Day one teaches about the muscles affecting both upper and lower quadrants. The class aims to teach NMES unit settings and use, muscle selection, and muscular stimulation during a task. Evidence-based clinical discussions on the symptomatic management of CP, as well as video and photo-based evaluation and data collection guidelines, are incorporated into the curriculum. Foot orthosis evaluation is included, addressing the effect of orthoses on gait and arm swing, and the importance of clinical assessment across physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) disciplines. First-day labs include the practice of TASES on several muscles, including the triceps, extensor carpi radialis, gastrocnemius, and gluteus maximus. The second day of this class further elaborates on the application of TASES specifically for the upper quarter. The course includes a case presentation and specific techniques for application of TASES to latissimus dorsi, biceps, supinator, wrist extensors, finger flexors, and thumb activation. Day two also includes a lab with practice and use of the unit for multiple nerves and muscles, as well as incorporating the hand switch for task-specific activation with a focus on timing.