Course Description:

This 3-day intermediate-level workshop has been designed to provide the therapist with an integrated approach to treatment of the rib cage, shoulder girdle, and upper extremities when providing services for children with neuromuscular system impairments. The thoracic cage (i.e., rib cage, shoulder girdle, upper extremities) and the trunk provide the foundation for head/neck, oral, pharyngeal, upper extremity, lower extremity and respiratory coordination function. A lab-intensive format will emphasize handling strategies with a strong kinesiological, anatomical, and developmental foundation. Treatment strategies will be addressed in the context of how they relate to discipline-specific functional outcomes. Live patient demonstrations will assist in integrating information throughout the workshop.