Description

This course is designed to present the most recent empirical evidence regarding efficacy of specific therapy- related interventions. Emphasis will be on strategies for children with cerebral palsy and other neurologic-based diagnoses. Videotapes of treatment sessions will be used to illustrate major points and to present longitudinal case studies. Recent information on neuroplasticity and motor learning principles as related to the developing child is included and implications for the most effective clinical interventions are suggested. Treatment strategies based on current knowledge of neuroplasticity, such as con- straint-induced therapy, mirror therapy and treadmill train- ing, are emphasized. The information presented should be immediately applicable to the organization of clinical treatment sessions and home, school, and community- based programs for children with a variety of develop- mental disabilities.

Objectives

Describe critical elements that support brain plasticity

Summarize major processes in normal brain development

Link developmental disabilities associated with impaired brain development

Compare generalized intervention strategies to specific function-based activities

Apply principles of motor learning to treatment sessions

Compare differing viewpoints on the role of muscle tone in motor control

Discuss “critical periods” for CNS sensory system development in children

Review research regarding perceptual-motor development in typically developing children

Discuss rationale for early gait training

Analyze varying environments in relation to “affordances” for motor behavior

Course Presenter

Patricia C. Montgomery, PhD, PT, FAPTA received a B.S. degree in physical therapy from the University of Oklahoma and a M.S. in educational psychology and PhD in child psychology from the University of Minnesota. Dr. Montgomery is an NDT trained therapist and Faculty Emeritus of Sensory Integration International. She has taught in several physical therapy programs and is the author of several books and articles. Dr. Montgomery has worked in a hospital setting, a NICU, a public school, and had a pediatric private practice. She is a past president of the MN Chapter, served on the Board of Directors of the American Physical Therapy Association, and is a Fellow of APTA.

Financial Disclosure: Financial: Patricia Montgomery receives a speaking fee from Education Resources, Inc. Non-Financial: She has no non-financial relationships to disclose.