2503 - SCI: Beyond the Chair

Intermediate

3.0 credit hours equal to 3.0 CECs/.3 CEUs

Faculty: Beth Scalone, PT, DPT, OCS

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course will review the nature of SCI, and how new thinking has changed the traditional approach to rehabilitation. Instead of focusing on how to function in the wheelchair, this approach allows the individual to experience greater movement patterns. The basic principles of the Burdenko Method are introduced and applied to the SCI client. We take shallow and deep water exercises one step forward in facilitating gait patterns with the SCI person including those classified as “complete”. Logistics of transfers, water temperature and use of equipment are discussed. Participants are encouraged to bring reports of their own successes and case studies for group discussion.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

1. Examine at least five benefits of water exercise, especially for individuals with SCI.

2. Design water exercises utilizing the basic principles of the Burdenko method.

3. Explore three key elements to facilitating gait in chest deep water.

4. Demonstrate proper hand placement and stabilization techniques for gait facilitation.

5. Develop a plan of progression for gait facilitation and exercise for individual clients.

6. Recognize specific precautions related to water exercise and the individual with SCI.

7.Assess and modify equipment needs for individual patients in order to achieve adequate flotation and alignment with water exercise.

FACULTY: Beth Scalone, PT, DPT, OCS, is a licensed physical therapist with over 18 years of experience in orthopedic and aquatic therapy.

As the owner of North County Water and Sports Therapy Center in San Diego (www.waterpt.com), she continues with hands-on clinical care in addition to her role as educator. Since graduating from the University of Connecticut in 1991, Beth has belonged to the American Physical Therapy Association and has achieved certification as a Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy. In January 2006, she graduated from Boston University with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Additional certifications include Certified STOTT Pilates™ instructor and Master Instructor for the Burdenko Method.

Beth not only provides continuing education for health care professionals, she is an adjunct faculty in the San Diego Mesa College PTA program, teaching Orthopedic Rehabilitation and Introduction to Pathology courses. She also provides the learning module/instruction on aquatic therapy to the University of St. Augustine San Diego Campus DPT program.