Course Description

The purpose of this course is to provide a review of functional anatomy and kinesiology as it relates to the trunk.  The relevance of core stabilization and its influence on trunk control in the patient with hemiplegia as a result of stroke will be discussed.  Participants will be shown and have the opportunity to practice specific clinical techniques to facilitate skeletal muscle activity of the trunk.  Selected functional activities will be analyzed and participants will demonstrate interventions using the extremities in weightbearing and nonweightbearing positions as evidence of skills learned in the course.

Course Level (As defined by the APTA): Intermediate – Assumes that participants have a general familiarity with topic (trunk anatomy, kinesiology, and stroke rehabilitation).  The focus is on increased understanding and application of information (core stabilization and neurorehabilitation strategies).

Participants

Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants; Occupational Therapists & Certified Occupational Therapist Assistants

Course Objectives

After competing this course, the participant will be able to:

1. Explain the anatomy and kinesiology of the trunk; and discuss the relationship to and the importance of core stabilization for gait activities.
2. Articulate positions of the trunk to facilitate eccentric, concentric, and isometric muscle activity.
3. Utilize the extremities as different lever arms to develop force control in the trunk.
4. Develop therapeutic techniques to generate force control in muscles affected by stroke for different components of functional activities.      

Continuing Education Units

A certificate of attendance will be issued denoting eight (8) credit (contact) hours or .8 CEUs of continuing competence. The contact hours or CEUs will vary in each state according to licensure boards, state associations, or sponsoring entities.