PTA 204 PT Interventions - Neuromuscular Conditions

This course is designed to assist PTA students in gaining a greater understanding of the various neuromuscular conditions and mental health conditions encountered in physical therapy; clinical problem-solving and communication are highly emphasized.

Credits

5

Prerequisite

PTA 104 and (PTA 104L or PTA 104LR) OR PTA 133 and (PTA 133L or PTA 133LR), all with a C or better (all may be taken as corequisites) and admission into the PTA Program

Corequisite

PTA 204L

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of patient/client management including body functions, structures, common characteristics, impairments and related disabilities associated with selected conditions affecting the neuromuscular system using appropriate terminology: a) Central and peripheral neurological conditions (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Cerebral vascular accident, Concussion, Guillain-Barré Syndrome, Huntington’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, Post-polio Syndrome, Spinal Cord Injury, Traumatic Brain Injury, b) Cognitive impairments, c) Developmental disabilities, d) Movement impairment syndromes (dystonias, bradykinesia, athetosis, chorea)
2. Demonstrate an understanding of neuroanatomy, biopsychosocial factors, and cultural components that may affect treatment planning and outcomes for patients with neuromuscular conditions
3. Integrate motor learning and motor control principles during case simulations for individuals with neuromuscular conditions
4. Apply the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health to describe impairments, activity and participation limitations throughout the lifespan for patients with neuromuscular conditions
5. Reflect on decision-making when selecting and planning interventions for impairments in balance, equilibrium and coordination in the adult and pediatric populations affected by neuromuscular health conditions
6. Discuss theoretical principles underlying treatment for patients with neuromuscular conditions: a) Neurodevelopmental treatment, b) Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, c) Task-oriented treatment approaches
7. Apply understanding of scope of practice and knowledge of neuromuscular conditions when explaining decision-making during case simulations that include the following interventions in the physical therapy plan of care: a) Application of devices and equipment including orthotics., b) Assistive technology, c) Functional training and self-care, d) Balance and gait, e) Therapeutic exercises, f) Breathing exercises, g) Vestibular training, and h) Coordination training
8. Collect relevant tests and measures for patients with neuromuscular conditions that inform decision-making and progress in the physical therapy plan of care: aa) Normal and abnormal posture, b) Neuromuscular tone, c) Motor control, d) Normal and abnormal righting responses , e) Normal and abnormal reflexes, f) Righting equilibrium reactions, g) Changes in muscle tone, h) Standardized instruments, i) Positions of ease and positions of discomfort, j) Skin conditions, k) Sensation and perception, l) Typical and atypical developmental milestones (gross and fine motor)
9. Discuss the social impact experienced by people with neuromuscular conditions that affect interactions with others and affect access to appropriate support services