Jane Styer-Acevedo Neuro-Developmental Treatment and Therapeutic Aquatics

Workshop Description:

This workshop is an introductory to intermediate level course that is designed for the health care professional (physical therapist, occupational therapist, and speech and language pathologist) and paraprofessional currently working in the aquatic environment or desiring to begin work in aquatics. A problem-based approach is used to determine the aquatic treatment strategies best suited to the client; based on their identified functional outcome, the task analysis of that outcome, and the impact of water on their movement. A variety of treatment techniques will be taught to emphasize the strengthening and symmetry of the trunk while activating and strengthening the extremities towards the functional outcome. Safety skills will be reviewed as they can be applied to “land” function. A treatment demonstration will be used to assist in planning and integrating aquatic and land-based interventions. Strong emphasis is placed on the pool lab to practice the techniques under supervision.

Learning Outcomes:

At the completion of this workshop, participants will be able to:

1. Identify the properties of water that most significantly impact the gross, fine and oral motor deficits typically seen in clients
2. Identify the properties of water that most significantly impact the musculoskeletal, sensory/perceptual and vestibular impairments typically seen in clients.
3. Choose the treatment strategies particular to water that directly impact the motor, adaptive or communicative functions in clients.
4. Apply water safety and swimming techniques towards identified functional land and/or water outcomes.
5. Organize treatment strategies into an effective sequence to achieve a client’s identified functional outcome.
6. Demonstrate understanding and basic skill level in at least 15 aquatic treatment strategies as discussed in the mornings and demonstrated in the afternoon pool sessions.

Schedule to be posted in the near future.