1500 – Balance for MS, TBI, Orthopedic Trauma
Beginner
3.0 credit hours
equal to 3.0 CECs/.3 CEUs
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Multiple Sclerosis, Traumatic Brain Injury, and Orthopedic
Trauma are very different, yet face many of the same challenges. Balance
deficits, fatigue, cognitive impairment, depression, and loss of strength are
inherent in all. All need specialized physical training.
Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic progressive nervous disorder
resulting in life altering challenges. MS patients benefit from gentle,
repetitive movement. Their ability to tolerate activity varies greatly. Balance activities should be selected to
provide body alignment awareness, range of motion, gentle strengthening, and
improved endurance in a supportive setting.
Traumatic Brain Injuries are in the forefront of medical
identification, treatment, and research. The number of young military veterans
diagnosed with TBI has grown exponentially in the past few years. Recent research on professional athletes,
particularly football players, who have experienced repeated concussions are
having the same challenges as they age. They have the need for balance,
cognitive training, and challenge with coordination and aerobic activity. This
same group often has been challenged with recovery from Orthopedic Trauma so
progressive aquatic therapy provides a safe arena for reduced fear of falling,
challenge activities, and progression therapy to increase muscle strength and
imbalance.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
1.
Examine complications experienced by MS, TBI, and Orthopedic
Trauma patients and the role of therapy- based training.
2.
Demonstrate basic exercises in the water based on yoga and
similar protocols.
3.
Determine achievable outcome goals and adapt balance
positions to meet each individual’s needs.
4.
Explore ways to use yoga, Ai Chi, and Ai Chi Ne to provide a
supportive environment.
5.
Identify small steps to show progress in Activities of Daily
Living.
FACULTY: Mary O. Wykle, PhD, ATRIC,
is a professor of physical education at Northern
Virginia Community College. She holds multiple certifications in
aquatics and fitness. Her company, MW Associates, offers consulting
workshops in health and aquatics. Mary
is a long-time faculty member and serves on varied committees for ATRI. She is a regular presenter for the Aquatic
Exercise Association/IAFC. Mary is Committee Chair for Aquatic Therapy
Practitioner of NCCARD (The National Commission for the Credentialing of
Aquatic Rehabilitation Disciplines). She is the author of Risk Awareness and Safety Training and developed Aqua Pi-Yo-Chi™.