Full Course Description

Debunking the Myths of Exercise in MS

Are you asking yourself, “Can I push my patients with MS (PwMS) in therapy? What about heat? Will their condition exacerbate?” This session will dive into the latest research, debunking common misconceptions about exercise and MS. You’ll leave with the confidence to prescribe physical activity without fear of relapse. In addition, you will learn a collection of practical techniques to empower patients, helping them overcome their fears and misconceptions about exercise to improve their long-term outcomes.

Program Information

Objectives

Evaluate and dispel common myths about exercise in MS by analyzing patient case studies and identifying safe exercise protocols that improve functional mobility.
Design individualized exercise programs for MS patients by incorporating the latest research on physical activity, with a focus on enhancing endurance, balance, and strength without triggering fatigue or relapse.
Implement patient-centered strategies to overcome psychological barriers to exercise, improving adherence to physical activity programs and supporting long-term functional gains in daily tasks.

Outline

Debunk the Myths: Exercise and MS – What You Need to Know

Addressing fears of over-fatiguing patients
Myths vs. facts on exercise in MS
Latest research on exercise and MS
Safe integration of physical activity in treatment plans

Target Audience

Athletic Trainers
Chiropractors
Exercise Physiologists
Nurse Practitioners
Nurses
Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Physical Therapists
Physical Therapy Assistants
Physician Assistants
Physicians
Strength and Conditioning Coaches
Other Rehabilitation and Fitness Professionals

Copyright : 04/25/2025

Functional Strategies for Spasticity Management in MS

Spasticity is one of the most challenging and limiting symptoms for patients with MS, significantly impacting mobility, daily function, and quality of life. This session provides you with actionable tools to assess, manage, and reduce the impact of spasticity while promoting functional independence and improving patient outcomes.

Led by Michelle Mioduszewski, MS, OTR/L, a renowned expert in neurological rehabilitation, this session combines her extensive experience with her specialized focus on MS care.

Identify triggers that exacerbate spasticity
Implement functional positioning techniques to improve comfort, reduce contracture risk, and support ADL performance
Develop individualized management plans that incorporate stretching, adaptive equipment and assistive technology
Leverage advanced therapeutic tools to foster participation in meaningful activities

This session equips you with the skills and confidence to navigate the complexities of spasticity management, empowering you to deliver care that transforms your patient’s mobility, independence, and quality of life.

Program Information

Objectives

Identify and address spasticity triggers to enhance patient comfort, improve mobility, and reduce barriers to performing ADLs.
Implement functional positioning strategies to minimize contracture risk and support effective participation in daily activities and therapeutic interventions.
Design individualized spasticity management plans that incorporate stretching, adaptive equipment, and assistive technology to maximize functional independence and engagement in meaningful activities.

Outline

Cracking the Code: Understanding Spasticity in MS
Explore the foundations of spasticity management, focusing on the why” behind this complex symptom and its functional implications

The science of spasticity: What’s happening beneath the surface?
Triggers and patterns: How to identify what exacerbates spasticity
The impact on mobility, ADLs, and patient independence
Differentiating spasticity from other movement dysfunctions

Tools of the Trade: Evaluation Strategies That Drive Results
Learn how to assess spasticity with precision and connect findings to real-world functional goals

Functional assessments: Measuring spasticity’s impact on daily life
Spotting hidden triggers: Fatigue, positioning, and environmental factors
Case studies: Evaluation techniques in action

Taming the Beast: Advanced Treatment Techniques
Discover actionable, evidence-based strategies to manage spasticity and maximize functional outcomes

Functional positioning to prevent contractures and improve comfort
Incorporating stretching, manual therapy, and therapeutic exercises
Adaptive equipment: Braces, splints, and seating systems that make a difference
Progressive strategies for real-time symptom adaptation and management. Review the basics of pharmacological education to assist clients in advocating for themselves and having realistic expectations

Beyond the Clinic: Empowering Patients for Lasting Success
Equip your patients with the tools and confidence to manage spasticity independently and maintain functional gains

Practical tips for life management of spasticity
Building sustainable management plans tailored to individual needs
Engaging patients in meaningful activities and goal-setting
Educating patients and families on adaptive strategies and equipment use
Breaking barriers: Addressing insurance concerns and patient resistance

Target Audience

Athletic Trainers
Chiropractors
Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Physical Therapists
Physical Therapy Assistants

Copyright : 04/25/2025

Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation: Update on Clinical Practice for Allied Health

The one-size fits-all approach to treating persons with MS is insufficient to meet the needs of the issues these patients face. Unlike other diagnoses commonly seen in rehab such as stroke and spinal cord injury, MS is highly variable and patients can present in unique and diverse ways. Clinicians require specific training to adequately address the mobility issues of patients with this diagnosis.

In this session, led by Herb Karpatkin, an MS clinician, researcher, and educator you will learn how to design and progress exercise programs that meet the needs of individual patients based on their specific evaluative findings as well as the severity and phenotype of their condition.

In this session, evaluative techniques used identify the root causes of movement dysfunction in MS will be presented. The evaluative findings will be used as a means by which to develop a customized comprehensive treatment plan and special attention will be paid to dealing with the impact of fatigue and thermosensitivity.

Through case studies, hands-on techniques, based on peer reviewed evidence, you’ll leave with the confidence to handle any MS case that comes your way. Whether your patient is just beginning to experience symptoms or is dealing with more advanced stages, you’ll be equipped with the tools to make a real difference in their lives. Join us to learn how to transform your approach to MS care – because when it comes to MS, there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution.

Program Information

Objectives

Design a personalized exercise program for MS patients that appropriately progresses based on the patient’s level of disability (mild, moderate, severe), with a specific focus on improving functional mobility and reducing fall risks through targeted strength training, balance exercises, and gait training.
Accurately assess MS-related fatigue and modify treatment plans by incorporating graded exercise techniques and pacing strategies, ensuring that the patient can maintain or enhance daily functional activities, such as ambulation, self-care, and household chores, without triggering excessive fatigue.
Develop and implement endurance-building strategies within rehabilitation plans for MS patients, focusing on improving the patient’s capacity for prolonged standing, walking longer distances, and completing extended tasks, while using interval training and rest periods to manage energy levels effectively.

Outline

Foundations: The Disability Spectrum in MS

The importance of personalized exercise progression
Mild Disability in MS
- Characteristics of mild disability in MS patients
- Key considerations for exercise in early-stage MS
- Exercise strategies to maintain and enhance function
Moderate Disability in MS
- Progression of MS: Transitioning to moderate disability
- Balancing intensity and recovery in exercise programs
- Modifying exercises for mobility and strength
Severe Disability in MS
- Challenges and goals for exercise in severe MS
- Safe exercise options to maintain quality of life
- Integration of assistive devices and supportive equipment

Customizing Home Exercise Programs

Developing personalized home exercise programs for MS patients
Adapting exercises to the home environment
Educating patients and caregivers on safe exercise practices

Target Audience

Athletic Trainers
Exercise Physiologists
Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Physical Therapists
Physical Therapy Assistants
Other Rehabilitation and Fitness Professionals

Copyright : 04/25/2025

Beyond the Basics: Harnessing Neuroplasticity for Advanced MS Rehabilitation

Explore how to leverage the brain’s adaptability through evidence-based techniques, including dual-task training, vestibular exercises, and strategies to boost Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) for cognitive and motor recovery. Led by neurorehabilitation expert Dr. Benjamin White, this course equips you with practical tools to address MS’s unique challenges – fatigue, cognitive fluctuations, and balance issues – enabling you to create adaptive, impactful treatment plans. Join us to transform your approach and empower your patients to achieve greater functional independence.

Key Takeaways

Apply neuroplasticity principles to improve mobility and function
Integrate dual-task exercises to boost cognitive-motor recovery
Use vestibular and vision strategies to enhance balance and safety
Manage fatigue effectively to sustain patient engagement and progress

Program Information

Objectives

Assess and modify treatment plans using neuroplasticity principles to enhance patients’ mobility and daily living activities, demonstrating the ability to adapt exercises based on fatigue and cognitive fluctuations. (Sandroff, 2020)
Implement dual-task and vestibular exercises that address balance and coordination challenges, aiming to reduce fall risk and improve patients’ functional independence. (Cochrane, 2021)
Apply targeted neuroplasticity-driven interventions that promote cognitive and motor recovery, enhancing patients’ ability to perform complex, goal-oriented tasks in their daily routines. (Broadhouse, 2020)

Outline

Introduction to Neuroplasticity in MS Rehabilitation

Define neuroplasticity and its relevance to MS treatment
Overview of common MS challenges: fatigue, cognitive impact, fluctuating symptoms
Importance of neuroplasticity-driven approaches for meaningful, adaptable care

Applying Neuroplasticity Principles in MS

Key neuroplasticity concepts in MS: adaptation, skill-building, and brain rewiring
Role of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in supporting neuroplasticity and enhancing cognitive and motor function
Real-time adaptations for unpredictable symptoms and daily patient variability

Techniques to Enhance cognitive and Motor Recovery

Dual-task interventions: integrating cognitive and physical tasks to boost brain adaptability
Fatigue management strategies that support sustained patient engagement
Vision and vestibular exercises to improve balance, safety, and confidence

Practical Applications and Treatment Adjustments

Customizing treatment plans based on neuroplasticity principles: when to adjust and how
Step-by-step example of tailoring exercise intensity and type to fatigue levels and daily function
Tools and tech for real-time progress tracking and adaptive treatment planning

Wrap-Up and Q&A

Key takeaways for implementing neuroplasticity in MS care
Brief Q&A to address audience-specific challenges and concerns

Target Audience

Athletic Trainers
Chiropractors
Exercise Physiologists
Nurse Practitioners
Nurses
Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Physical Therapists
Physical Therapy Assistants
Physician Assistants
Strength and Conditioning Coaches
Other Rehabilitation and Fitness Professionals

Copyright : 04/25/2025

Meeting Patients Where They Are: Strategies for Managing Pain, Fatigue and Other Challenges to Participating in Rehabilitation

Gain actionable strategies to tackle some of the challenging barriers in MS care – fatigue, chronic pain, and therapy reluctance. By understanding how to blend cognitive-behavioral and mind/body strategies with patient-centered care, this seminar will empower you to:

Support your patients to more effectively manage their fatigue and pain
Tailor your interventions to meet patients where they are: Understand how to identify key identity and psychological and physiological factors that impact patient engagement and progress
Identify strategies that can help your patients overcome barriers that limit their therapy participation and progress
Discover how identifying and addressing anxiety, depression, body-image issues and trauma and therapy challenges can enhance physical outcomes, creating a more comprehensive approach to MS care

By the end of this session, you’ll leave with practical tools that improve your ability to engage patients, adjust your treatment plans and deliver outcomes that support both mental and physical well-being.

Program Information

Objectives

Identify challenges to engagement and participation in therapy.
Develop patient-centered personalized intervention plans that incorporate culturally responsive, behavioral, mind/body and supportive strategies to improve functional outcomes.
Develop an understanding of how to talk with patients about challenges that impact patient participation and progress.

Outline

Understanding Why Patients May Resist Therapy

Explore psychological and physiological reasons behind resistance to therapy and how it impacts progress

Fatigue and Pain: Strategies to Break the Cycle

Identify techniques that your patients can use to manage chronic pain and fatigue

Meeting Patients Where They Are: Customizing Interventions

Understand the importance of personalizing interventions that address the patient’s abilities, culture, ethnicity, identify and mental health challenges

Empowering Patients: Motivating Engagement Through Cognitive and Mind/Body Techniques

Develop an understanding of how supportive interviewing, body awareness, relaxation and mindfulness techniques can boost therapy adherence

Target Audience

Chiropractors
Exercise Physiologists
Nurse Practitioners
Nurses
Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Physical Therapists
Physical Therapy Assistants
Physician Assistants
Physicians
Strength and Conditioning Coaches
Other Healthcare Professionals

Copyright : 04/25/2025

Navigating Multiple Sclerosis: From Diagnosis to Treatment in a Multidisciplinary Framework

Gain a deep understanding of the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis and its neurological impacts through current research and case studies. This program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating pharmacological treatments and collaborative strategies to enhance patient care. Learn how disease-modifying medications and symptomatic therapies can influence your treatment plans, ensuring you are prepared to make informed decisions. By evaluating the effectiveness of various treatment modalities, including medication management and interdisciplinary interventions, you will be equipped to provide holistic and effective care for individuals with multiple sclerosis. Transform your practice with cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills that make a real difference in patient lives.

Program Information

Objectives

Analyze the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis and its impact on neurological function by reviewing current research and case studies.
Apply multidisciplinary management strategies to enhance patient care, integrating knowledge of pharmacological treatments and collaborative approaches.
Evaluate the effectiveness of various treatment modalities, including medication management and interdisciplinary interventions, to optimize patient outcomes in multiple sclerosis care.

Outline

Foundations of MS

Pathophysiology and Etiology
Clinical Manifestations and Symptoms
Diagnostic Criteria and Tools

Multidisciplinary Management

Roles of PTs and OTs in MS Care
Collaborative Care Strategies

Disease-Modifying Therapies and Symptomatic Treatments

Overview of Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs)
Symptom Management Medications
Emerging Treatments and Research

Case Studies, Real-World Applications, and Patient Stories

Success through Collaboration

Target Audience

Athletic Trainers
Chiropractors
Exercise Physiologists
Nurse Practitioners
Nurses
Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Physical Therapists
Physical Therapy Assistants
Physician Assistants
Speech Language Pathologists
Strength and Conditioning Coaches
Psychiatrists
Other Rehabilitation and Fitness Professionals

Copyright : 07/24/2024

A Family Systems Approach to Disability and Chronic Illness

Professionals focus on the person identified as the patient, but disability and chronic illness (CID) affect the whole family. The family comes with its own ideas about illness, health and wellness. This training focuses on how to incorporate the family response to a CID in one or more of their members. Included is the language we use about CID, how to phrase questions, and how to use language to reflect the family’s model(s) of disability. Also included are management of cognitive issues within the family, and inclusion of family members (parents, partners, children, adults) in treatment planning and implementation. Included are four reasons assistive technology (AT) sent home with patients is never used and ways of introducing AT to families.

Program Information

Objectives

Analyze how the family is involved with the ‘patient.’
Distinguish between pathologizing and affirming language for each model of disability.
Employ methods to increase likelihood of AT use.
Utilize a family treatment plan to improve client participation in activities, occupation and treatment.

Outline

Shifting from the individual to the family system

Models of disability (moral, medical, social) and their language; how to understand the patient’s model; using language from a model in talking with patients to reflect their perspective.

How models of disability affect views of AT; using positive language to introduce AT; anticipating problems with using AT; incorporating AT into the family system to increase probability of usage

Management of cognitive issues: practical suggestions; incorporating the family

Making a workable treatment plan

Target Audience

Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Physical Therapists
Physical Therapist Assistants

Advances for Neurorehabilitation for Multiple Sclerosis Patients: Accelerate Recovery with New Technologies and Nutrition

Navigating the complexities of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) rehabilitation can be daunting, especially when traditional methods fall short in delivering rapid patient progress. Delve into the latest advancements in neurorehabilitation for MS patients, presented by esteemed experts Dr. Mandy Jacques, PT, DPT, MSCS, and Dr. Terry Wahls. As an MS survivor and Functional Medicine expert, Dr. Wahls revolutionized her health with a unique diet and lifestyle regimen. This seminar will offer valuable insights and advanced techniques, ensuring a transformative learning experience.

Here’s what you’ll discover:

Advanced neurorehabilitation techniques that clearly differentiate MS-specific therapy from traditional movement therapies
Insights on the clinical application of DC electrical stimulation & how this modality can enhance muscle strength, spasticity, and gait
Dietary changes that can lead to significant improvements for MS symptoms and quality of life
Dr. Wahls' 15-step behavior change model to guide patients through effective lifestyle modifications

With the perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, you’ll enhance your skills, stay updated with the latest trends, and empower your patients towards a faster and more effective recovery. Join us for an enlightening experience that will redefine your approach to MS rehabilitation.

Program Information

Objectives

Differentiate between MS-specific neurorehabilitation techniques and traditional movement therapies, focusing on their impact on function.(Albergoni, 2023)
Identify the principles, benefits, and impact on occupational performance and participation of direct current stimulation in MS rehabilitation. (Ellerbusch, 2023)
Demonstrate how interventions such as dietary strategies and Dr. Wahls' 15-step behavior change model can positively impact patient outcomes and improve management of MS. (Bisht, 2014)

Outline

Understanding MS: Core Concepts, Symptoms and Rehabilitation Challenges

Demyelination and Autoimmune Dynamics
Types of MS: From Relapsing-Remitting to Progressive Forms
Exercise's Role in Mitigating MS Progression
Common Symptoms: Fatigue, Muscle Weakness, Spasticity, and More
Navigating Relapse and Pseudo Relapse in Rehabilitation

Innovative Approaches with DC Current

Enhancing Nervous System Function
Targeted Applications: Foot Drop, Spasticity, and Gait Improvement

Autoimmune Damage: Unraveling the Lifestyle and Nutrition Causes

Genetic and Environmental Influences
Nutritional and Lifestyle Factors
Evolutionary Biology: Understanding Mis-Match Disease
The Impact of Modern Lifestyle on Genetic Stability

The Role of Myelin and Microglia in MS

Cellular Interactions and Lifestyle Modifications
Astrocytes
Microglia
Oligodendrocyte
Neuron Synapses/ myelin/ neurotransmitters
Microglia and modifiable lifestyle factors
Nutrition
Movement
Sleep
Microbiome
Circadian rhythm

Secondary and Progressive MS Rehabilitation

Nutrition, targeted supplements, meditation, exercise, E-stim
Single arm
Assessor masked
Significant reduction in fatigue, improvement in QoL, cognition
Better lipids, BMI, insulin sensitivity

Relapsing Remitting MS

Compared low saturated fat and modified paleolithic diet
Observation period
Both diets reduced fatigue and improved QoL, mood, cognition
Paleo diet superior to some measures but not all

Revolutionizing MS Rehabilitation

Integrating Nutrition, Supplements, and Mind-Body Practices
Evidence-Based Benefits: Fatigue Reduction and Quality of Life Enhancement

Dietary Strategies in MS Management

Comparative Analysis of Dietary Interventions
The Paleo Diet: A Closer Look at Its Efficacy

Behavioral Change in MS Management

Overcoming Challenges in Lifestyle Modification
The Wahls Behavior Change Model: A 15-Step Guide

Discussion and Q&A between Dr. Wahls and Dr. Jacques

Target Audience

Physical Therapists
Physical Therapist Assistants
Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Chiropractors
Athletic Trainers
Massage Therapists
Other Rehab Professionals
Nurses
Nurse Practitioners
Physician Assistant