#358  Intensive NDT Handling Course: Integrating Intervention Including all ICF Domains
 
This is an intensive 2 day course focused on increasing the course participants handling skill during the examination, evaluation intervention within the framework of the NDTTM Contemporary Practice Model. A brief lecture highlighting the key elements of the NDT Practice Model will be followed by a series of structured movement labs. The labs will include sessions on the graded use of therapist’s hands and body to achieve changes in the child's participation, functional activities, and to minimize high priority impairments of that child related to the functional limitations. The role of handling during examination, evaluation and intervention will be explored. 
 
The common and key biomechanical components of the posture and movement observed in children with neuromuscular disorders will be addressed with the ABCs of NDT (alignment, base of support, center of mass and the weight shifts in all three planes of movement) with specific handling strategies for biomechanical impairment.  In addition instruction of handling skills for managing common impairments that frequently contribute to participation restrictions and activity limitations will be provided with supervised practice for each strategy presented. A condensed video of an assessment of a child with cerebral palsy will be presented to the course participants who will collaborate using and NDT problem solving format to set an outcome for a single session.  The group evaluation leading to a compilation of the highest priority integrities and impairments related to the specific functional outcome established will be outlined.  
 
Options for handling to be included in a treatment session designed to meet the outcome will be developed by the class and then the instructor will carry out the suggested treatment plan during a live demonstration. Following the treatment session the class will evaluate the effectiveness of the session in achieving the outcome. In addition home program recommendations will be developed that include the integration of the strategies used in the session that will educate the caregivers  and enhance their skill in parenting their child  while  improving the participation of the child in the home, school or community setting.  A pre and posttest of handling will be included for self-evaluation by each participant of his/her handling skills.
 
Instructor: Dr. Judith (Judi) C Bierman PT
 
Course Cities and Dates:
 
Next Year: