Session 1:

  1. Basic Splinting Workshop

Alice VanDerwerken, MS, OT, CHT

This is a workshop for beginners or therapist who has limited splinting skills. Therapist will make two basic splints – volar wrist splint and CMC splint. Please bring your own scissors for this workshop.

  1. Understanding and identifying upper extremity complications related to breast cancer treatments

Nancy Bouffard, MS, OTR/L, CLT

This course will provide evidence based material as well as a live case study to demonstrate the complex comorbidities and adverse complications related to surgery, lymph node dissection, reconstruction and radiation therapy in the treatment of breast cancer. Complications such as lymphedema, axillary web syndrome, scarring, adhesions and/or contractures, nerve damage and/or impingement, pain and musculoskeletal dysfunction and their impact on patient functional performance and quality of life will be discussed.

  1. Introduction to Upper Limb Prosthetics and advanced technology

Matthew Mikosz, CPO

Introduction to Upper Limb Prosthetics and advanced technology

Upper Limb prosthetics have come a long way in recent years. New innovations have made a tremendous impact on individuals utilizing prosthetic devices. Many individuals are unaware of what is currently available and could potentially benefit from the latest in advanced upper extremity prosthetic technology.

Session 2

  1. Physical Agent Modalities: The Basics of Application for Occupation Based Practice_

Debbie Amini, EdD, OTR/L, CHT, FAOTA

Physical Agent Modalities are commonly used by occupational therapy practitioners in upper extremity rehabilitation settings as well as general rehabilitation and skilled nursing facilities. Occupational therapists not yet familiar with the underlying principles of thermal and electrical modalities will become familiar with appropriate application and use congruent with an occupation based treatment that maintains the distinctness of occupational therapy in all practice settings.

  1. Work Site Issues: Risk Factors and Office Ergonomics from the Clinic

Susan Emerson, MEd, OTR, CHT, CEES

When work tasks are suspected or known to contribute to patient injury, we must better understand the environment, risk factors and appropriate interventions to improve clinical management of the patient and promote recovery and functional restoration. Ergonomic evaluation, patient education and return to work issues will be explored and addressed to improve clinical and work place interventions. Office Ergonomics will be a focal point of discussion relative to clinical and on-site interventions.

  1. Basic Splinting Workshop

Alice VanDerwerken, MS, OT, CHT

This is a workshop for beginners or therapist who has limited splinting skills. Therapist will make two basic splints – volar wrist splint and CMC splint. Please bring your own scissors for this workshop.

Session 3

  1. Motor Learning, Motor Control & Task Specific Training

Jessie Bolduc, DrOT, MS, OTR/L

Understanding neuroplasticity and current, evidence-based interventions can maximize functional recovery for clients with hemiplegic upper extremities. Using the principles of motor control and motor learning, attendees will learn about task specific-training and it roles in improving occupational performance via practice and repetition of functional tasks.

  1. Common Neuropathic Processes in the Upper Extremities

Dr John Taylor

This lecture will focu on common upper extremity neuropathies. Using case studies we will look at common and less common conditions. The relevant testing and pathophysiology will be reviewed.

I Lymphedema: What is it and How is it Managed?

Kristin Richards, OTR/L, CLT-LANA

Learn the fundamentals of lymphedema therapy. This session provides an overview of the lymphatic system, types and stages of lymphedema, differential diagnosis and indications and contraindications for therapy. Participants will have a better understanding of therapy options including Complete Decongestive Therapy and Kinesio Taping.