Review Series: Hand And Upper Extremity CEU Courses for OTs

This course will review the extensor tendon anatomy and the various contribution of extrinsic and intrinsic muscles to the extensor tendon mechanism. A brief overview and rationale for the utilization of immobilization, early passive motion or early active motion protocols for each of the extensor tendon zones will be described.

This course is a review of scar biology and abnormal scar development, with a focus on those scars that may pose barriers to function. Information is provided on conservative care provided by OTs, including scar assessment, intervention, and outcomes measurements.

The anatomy and patho-biomechanics of wrist instability and its classification systems as well as the anatomy and pathology of tendinopathies of the hand and wrist are presented in this course. Evidence-based clinical assessments and current conservative and post-operative treatments are also discussed.

Types of pre-cut, pre-formed and sheet-based splint fabrication techniques are explored as well as instruction on the fabrication of a foot plate for external fixator application, the application of lower extremity splints and orthotics as well as splinting considerations for specific diagnoses including burn injury. A focus on creative splinting techniques is emphasized.

Types of pre-cut, pre-formed and sheet-based splint fabrication techniques are explored as well as video demonstration of the fabrication of a hand-based thumb spica, finger gutter and MP joint blocking splints. In addition, the application and use of a spring finger extension splint, oval 8 splints as well as static progressive finger flexion and extension splints are discussed.

In this course, types of pre-cut, pre-formed and sheet-based splint fabrication techniques are explored as well as a comparison between volar and dorsal-based approaches. A detailed demonstration of four types of forearm-based wrist orthotics are presented, including radial gutter/thumb spica splints, dorsal and volar wrist cock-ups, and functional position with an intrinsic plus modification option. This course is Part 2 of a 4-part series on static splinting.

Following a brief overview of the history of splint fabrication and the advances in the splinting and orthotics arena, an anatomical review of hand structures and landmarks will be performed. Types of splints as well as the variety in thermoplastic materials and characteristics will be presented in preparation for additional courses within this series. This course is Part 1 of a 4-part series on static splinting.

This course will present material that will help you better understand thoracic outlet syndrome. You will develop evaluation and treatment strategies to address the issue associated with the thoracic outlet syndrome.

Therapeutic intervention for the resolution of elbow stiffness. Joint and soft tissue mobilization, therapeutic exercise and occupation-based interventions to prevent and resolve elbow stiffness are presented. Orthotic principles for prevention and resolution of elbow stiffness are reviewed.

This course begins with an in-depth overview of the anatomy and mechanics of traumatic brachial plexus injury, possible nerve transfers, and delves into the role of OT in evaluating and monitoring the progress of recovery. Additionally, it highlights treatment priorities and techniques that may be helpful in the rehabilitation of this patient population.