Introduction to Locomotor Training

The Introduction to Locomotor Training course is designed to provide participants including physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, researchers, and others with current evidence-based information on locomotor training.

Susan Harkema, Ph.D. will discuss the basic science evidence for locomotor training and translation to a therapeutic intervention for recovery after neurologic injury. Andrea Behrman, PTPhysical Therapist, PhD will further discuss the principles of locomotor training, compare and contrast with usual care, and application to clinical practice. Mary Schmidt Read, PTPhysical Therapist, DPT, MS will address the implementation of a locomotor training program into the clinic from a management perspective.

This introductory online course provides the necessary background for understanding and applying the principles of locomotor training, development of hands-on skills, and clinical decision-making for effective Locomotor Training delivery and progression of patients in the clinic. However, it should not be considered a substitute for the 2.5-day onsite hands-on course. The book Locomotor Training: Principles and Practice must be purchased at amazon.com to complete the homework and quiz.

Approach

Pre-conference preparation includes 6 hours of online lectures; 6-10 hours of reading, assignments, and tests. A certificate for 9.5 classroom hours will be awarded upon completion of the course evaluation. Locomotor Training: Principles and Practice must be purchased at amazon.com or borrowed from someone in your facility in order to complete the homework and quizzes.

Target Audience: Novice and Intermediate level courses open to licensed physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, occupational therapists, exercise physiologists, and rehab technicians.

Prerequisites: None

Objectives

1. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the basic science related to activity-based therapy.
2. Demonstrate a working knowledge of the guiding principles of activity-based therapy, with an emphasis on locomotor training on the treadmill, over ground, and in the community.
3. Identify and incorporate the principles of locomotor training during patient evaluation and progression.
4. Describe the resources necessary to establish an effective and efficient activity-based therapy program, with an emphasis on locomotor training.
5. Discuss how to effectively integrate locomotor training into an existing comprehensive therapy program.