Management of Upper Extremity Disorders

This course is designed to enhance the participants knowledge and skill level in the evidence-based management of individuals with upper extremity disorders and dysfunction. This lab intensive course focuses on the clinical reasoning and hands-on skill development necessary to effectively integrate manual physical therapy examination and intervention techniques into the clinical management of these individuals. Classification systems, outcome assessment tools, and the application of diagnostic imaging are discussed as components of the diagnostic process within the framework of evidence based practice. Participants will receive hands-on demonstration and practice of both examination and selected interventions of upper extremity.

By the end of the course, a successful participant will be able to: 

• Identify and perform key elements of an upper extremity subjective and objective clinical examination, with particular emphasis on a cervical and thoracic spine screening exam and upper extremity active and passive motion testing with overpressure and special tests.
• Synthesize and analyze data from the upper quarter clinical examination based on signs and symptoms, diagnostic clusters, and treatment-based classifications.
• Determine a diagnosis and/or impairments and use sound clinical reasoning and current best evidence to guide patient/client management.

Contact Hours: 24.0 (16 in person and 8 online pre-course online content)