Course Description:
The course and learning materials provide a review of changes in epidemiology, anatomy, and physiological functions seen after an acute, traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) and how to apply that knowledge to rehabilitative care. The learner will be taught foundational concepts in treatment of patients with SCI including a logical intervention progression with an emphasis on recovery of function. Using current evidence and best practice, this course will combine classroom experience with clinical application. Clinicians will come away from this course with novel intervention ideas and resources applicable to treatment of the patient in the acute and subacute stages following SCI.

Course Objectives:
At the end of this course, PT & OT participants will be able to:
– Demonstrate a thorough understanding of expected functional outcomes for each level of spinal cord injury and develop a comprehensive, interdisciplinary plan of care.
– Educate patients in preventative care topics such as skin care and wound prevention, functional ROM and positioning, preservation of shoulder and hand function, as well as autonomic dysreflexia, heterotopic ossification, and other preventable sequelae.
– Describe therapy’s role in bowel and bladder management for the person with a SCI.
– Gain increased confidence in mat work when developing preliminary skills training sessions for individuals with SCI.
– Identify appropriate intervention progression and goals aiming for early recovery in acute care with the end goal of return to community and enhanced quality of life.

At the end of this course, PTA & COTA participants will be able to:
– Demonstrate a thorough understanding of expected functional outcomes for each level of spinal cord injury.
– Educate patients in preventative care topics such as skin care and wound prevention, functional ROM and positioning, preservation of shoulder and hand function, as well as autonomic dysreflexia, heterotopic ossification, and other preventable sequelae.