About Course

This intermediate-level course focuses on treating the challenging child that does not fit into typical movement impairments of cerebral palsy. Children with cerebellar involvement may range from high functioning and “clumsy” to “doesn’t seem to care to move.” The clinical presentation may encompass communication disorders, autistic behaviors, ataxia, or hypertonicity. Recommended intervention strategies are based on Neuro-Developmental Treatment principles. This course is relevant to Physical and Occupational Therapists, and their assistants, working with children of all ages that are diagnosed with neuromuscular movement disorders or autism spectrum disorders. Current research is finding that pediatric cerebellar dysfunction presents a complex involvement affecting sensory-motor, affective, communicative, and cognitive function. Course content will cover various examples of how children with these impairments might present during familial, academic, or community participation. Treatment strategies will focus on multisystem system impairments and activities that target the balance, posture, and mobility of children with cerebellar involvement. (Intermediate Level)

PRESENTERS

Brenda J. Lindsay PT, C/NDT graduated from the first Physical Therapy class from Texas State University (SWTSU) with a BS in Physical Therapy. Her NDT career began initially with the Pediatric 8-week basic course in 1993 and she became a PT pediatric instructor with the NDTA in 2010. Brenda gained much of her teaching experience in assisting in short courses with Boehme workshops and then in assisting in NDTA Certificate Courses. Brenda is on the NDTA curriculum committee and on the committee that has developed the handling intensive course for assistants. She has over 30 years practicing across the life span with patients in Texas. She has taught nationally and internationally on the treatment of autism and ataxia. Brenda has an extensive background in body work utilizing techniques that increase postural gains targeted with facilitation of functional movement. She also offers private consultations and individualized therapy intensives.

Gail Ritchie, OTR, C/NDT is an independent, pediatric therapy provider and Occupational Therapist offering a range of therapies based on the culmination of skills and expertise attained over the last 25 years. Therapies include a variety of techniques and strategies specific to the individual needs of the child and family, while providing both emotional support and challenge. A nationally and internationally renowned clinical educator and a certified NDTA instructor since 1996, Gail participated in the development of the book entitled Neuro-Development Approach: Theoretical Foundations and Principles of Clinical Practice and the study guide for Neuro-Developmental Treatment Approach: Theoretical Foundations and Principles of Clinical Practice. She is currently on the Theory and Curriculum Committees for the NDTA and offers private consultations and individualized therapy intensives.

OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

1. Recognize the characteristics of a cerebellar movement disorder.

2. Recognize and differentiate multisystem impairments, and specific system impairments.

3. Identify 3 treatment interventions in treating patients with a cerebellar movement disorder.

AGENDA

Pre-Study: 30 Minutes Plan to read the course materials, references and review the post test before the start time. Please be prepared to share patient case study and related question during the discussion time.

60 min: Cerebellum Lecture

60 min: Video Example of Treatment and treatment strategies

Post-test: Research, identify, and submit your post test question answers on the online form. This is an open book test you can take multiple times if needed to obtain the 70% score.