DPHT 7342 Neuromuscular Physical Therapy I

4 SCH. This course is offered during the fall semester of the second year of the Doctorate in Physical Therapy curriculum. This course is the first in a series of two (2) to focus on examination, evaluation and interventions of a patient/client with neurologic, neuromuscular and developmental dysfunctions. These include, but are not limited, to Cerebrovascular Accidents (Stroke), Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Traumatic Brain Injury, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Cerebellar Disorders and Ataxia, Peripheral Neuropathies, Post-Polio Syndrome, and Multiple Sclerosis.

Students will be expected to recall and apply information from previous course work in a clinically relevant manner. Presentation of course material will reinforce earlier course work in neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and neuromuscular pathology, and will take place in both the classroom and the laboratory settings. The instructional approach of the course will include didactic lecture and case study presentations with an emphasis on problem-oriented learning in an effort to encourage active student participation and clinical decision making. Laboratory sessions will emphasize the development of specific psychomotor skills necessary for the successful assessment and treatment of the adult neurological client.

Course content has been designed to provide the student with a basic understanding of the pathophysiology and physical therapy management related to neuromuscular disorders. Emphasis is placed on the mechanism of injury, survey of epidemiology and etiology, symptomatology, pathology, and acute management and prognosis of specific neuromuscular disorders. The course content has been designed to provide the student with an understanding of theoretical treatment models based on normal sensorimotor development, neurophysiology, and motor control as a basis for clinical decision making. Treatment approaches to be discussed include Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT), Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF), and Motor Relearning Program (MRP). Integration of treatment approaches will be emphasized. Upon completion of the course, students will be expected to synthesize course content in such a way as to demonstrate competency in the professional behaviors necessary for becoming an effective physical therapist.
Offered Fall
Letter Grade