Course Description:

Deficits in upper extremity function are among the most common and devastating impairments, spanning virtually every neurologic diagnosis. As clinicians, we have more evidence than ever at our disposal describing the optimal treatment strategies for addressing neurologic upper extremity impairment. However, there are still therapies used routinely in the clinic that are outdated or not supported by current research, which may prevent our patients from maximizing their recovery. As such, it is of critical importance to share evidence-based treatment strategies, based on the scientific principles of neuroplasticity and motor learning, with clinicians across the country in order to maximize UE outcomes and quality of life for our patients. This course is designed to provide a rationale for and description of evidence-based treatment approaches as well as assessments that can be incorporated into clinical practice in a variety of neurologic diagnoses. This course will also provide recommendations for approaches based on impairment level so that our therapy sessions can be tailored to the skillset of each individual patient in order to maximize outcomes.