VitalStim® Therapy Certification Course Overview

The VitalStim® Certification Program includes:

1.Online course, “MBS: The Clear Picture

2.Two day hands-on “VitalStim® Certification” Course

Course Description

This dynamic and innovative program is revolutionizing dysphagia therapy! This energetic certification course will focus on topics such as muscle physiology, kinesiology of the swallowing mechanism and on pathological swallowing mechanisms and processes. The basic principles and concepts of neuromuscular electrical stimulation will be taught and the VitalStim® Therapy protocol will be extensively reviewed and practiced. The participants will receive one-on-one attention from two instructors, a certified SLP and a PT. Through extensive hands-on labs, attendees will apply the theory of neuromuscular electrical stimulation to the treatment of dysphagia. This exclusive program will provide participants with the building blocks to implement a successful VitalStim®Therapy program and will add value to therapists, facilities, and most of all patient care!

NOTE: Successful completion of the pre-requisite online “MBS: The Clear Picture” and this 2-day VitalStimTherapy Certification Course will certify the participant to utilize VitalStim technology in the treatment of dysphagia.

Course Requirements

Successful completion of online anatomy and MBS review course

Prior knowledge and experience in dysphagia management

Certification to provide VitalStim Therapy will be awarded to those who:

Complete the written post-test.

Demonstrate the accurate practical application of VitalStim Therapy.

Provide full payment for the course.

NOTE: If these criteria are not met at the course, additional opportunities to successfully complete the certification process will be available.

Course Objectives

  1. Name the anatomical structures relevant to the swallowing function;
  2. Palpate the structures mentioned under objective 1 that are accessible to palpation
  3. Describe the various phases of the normal swallowing movement
  4. Describe the neuro-physiological processes involved in normal swallowing, neural pathways controlling swallowing, positive and negative feedback occurring during swallowing;
  5. Discuss the psychological aspects involved with and their impact on swallowing
  6. Describe the main pathological conditions affecting the swallowing function in both the adult and pediatric population
  7. Interpret the results of a modified barium study
  8. Categorize the swallowing disorder based on the result of the evaluation
  9. Describe the characteristics of electrical stimulation and the influence of electricity on muscle tissue
  10. Identify the pathological conditions for which electrical stimulation is indicated
  11. Describe the characteristics of the VitalStim® Therapy electrical stimulation unit and the electrodes used
  12. Discuss and demonstrate the application of VitalStim® Therapy technology in the treatment of dysphagia
  13. Discuss and demonstrate the use of swallowing exercise during and after the application of VitalStim® technology
  14. Discuss the use of other interventions to maximize the impact of VitalStimTherapy
  15. Discuss and demonstrate correct use of documentation forms
  16. Demonstrate effective communication skills regarding VitalStim therapy with other members of the healthcare team.

Course Instructors

Yorick Wijting, PTbrings a dedication to rehab across continents. Yorick has 21 years experience as a Physical Therapist and an extensive international speaking career with an emphasis on electrotherapy and manual therapy.

Mary Simmons, SLP is a Speech-Language Pathologist who practices in Memphis, TN. Mary is the Clinical Specialist in the VitalStim division at Chattanooga Group serving as a knowledgeable resource in Dysphagia in general and VitalStim in particular to therapists around the USA.

Course Agenda

Day 1

08:30Introductory comments

08:45Anatomy, Physiology, Kinesiology

10:45Break

11:00Palpation of head and neck structures (lab)

12:00Dysphagia

12:30Lunch

13:30Modified Barium Swallow Analysis

14:30Electrotherapy Theory

15:45Break

16:00Electrotherapy Lab

17:30Written Examination

18:30Close

Day 2

09:00Review of material Day 1, Q&A

09:30Electrotherapy Discussion: literature, experience in the E-U, research

11:00Break

11:15Electrotherapy Lab Continued

12:00Open Discussion Studies???

13:00Close

The VitalStim® Certification Program includes

1. Online course, “MBS: The Clear Picture

2. Two day hands-on “VitalStim® Certification Course