Course Description

In 2003, stroke was the third leading cause of death, killing 157,689 people which was one of every 15 deaths (American Heart Association, 2006 & Hoyert, Heron, Murphy, and Kung, 2006).  If rehabilitation is an option for stroke survivors, then therapists must be able to provide patient focused care in acute care; subacute and inpatient rehab; outpatient and home health. Research indicated that in inpatient rehab “The largest percentage of time in physical therapy sessions was spent on gait activities” (Jette, et al., Physical Therapy, 2005; 85(3): 238-248, p. 241).  However, every patient will not be able to receive inpatient rehabilitation. This course is designed to provide the physical and occupational therapists; certified occupational therapist and physical therapist assistants with current knowledge and skills to improve gait in the patient with neurological involvement as a result of stroke.  Abnormal gait patterns will be reviewed. Therapeutic interventions will address the upper extremity, trunk and lower extremity transitioning from sitting to completing one gait cycle.  Specific treatment interventions that can be used in acute care across the continuum to home health to alleviate antalgic gait patterns will be discussed and demonstrated via media and therapist interaction for practical application to the neurological population.  This course will provide the therapists and assistants opportunities to practice specific techniques to facilitate gait required during functional daily living skills.

Course Level (As defined by the APTA): Intermediate – Assumes that participants have a general familiarity with topic (normal phases of gait).  The focus is on increased understanding and application therapeutic interventions to alleviate abnormal gait patterns.

Participants 

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

Course Objectives

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

• Recognize the causes of abnormal movement displayed during hemiplegic gait.
• Demonstrate hand placement for inhibiting or facilitating muscle activity during sit <--> stand; and the swing & stance phases of gait.
• Describe techniques to facilitate the phases of gait.
• Utilize electrical stimulation to facilitate gait.
• Analyze gait abnormalities and offer specific interventions to alleviate abnormalities based on skills learned.

Continuing Education Units

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