Special Topics in Pediatrics

Catalog description

This pediatric elective seminar is specifically designed for physical therapy students in the sixth and final semester of the DPT program who will be attending a pediatric clinical experience and/or who would like to pursue specialized pediatric physical therapy practice. Each week, a unique module will be taught by an expert clinician with an emphasis on state of the art, evidence-based intervention strategies for pediatric rehabilitation, building upon previous foundational pediatrics coursework. Prior to each class, students will read selected papers on the topic preparing them for an engaging 1-1.5 hour pre-recorded lecture followed by 2.5 hours of in-person skills-based lab instruction. Students will learn systems-based sensory intervention strategies with the HANDLE approach that can be applied across practice settings. In the NMES/FES module, students will learn pediatric specific protocols for integrating electrical stimulation into their practice for tone modulation and neuromuscular re-education. During the body weight supported gait training module, students will learn facilitation techniques to advance standing and walking skills across multiple patient presentations. Students will have the opportunity to learn serial casting techniques, observe a patient demo, and cast one another. Additionally, students will be introduced to scoliosis specific assessment and exercises as well as to post-concussive event intervention with an emphasis on vestibular rehabilitation for the pediatric patient.