Effective Evaluation and Treatment of Common Orthopedic Upper Extremity Diagnoses
Course Overview
This course is intended for all healthcare professionals who care for patients of various ages with orthopedic needs resulting from injury, surgery, abnormal development, and any other cause of abnormal use or movement of the upper extremities. This can result in decreased function and independence secondary to lack of normal movement patterns of the upper extremities. This course is also for healthcare professionals seeking knowledge regarding evaluation and treatment methods for the most common orthopedic conditions affecting the shoulder, elbow, hand, and fingers. Various effective evaluations and interventions will be shared to assist healthcare professionals with current and future patients to enhance independence for all areas of occupation including play, activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, and more.
Learning Outcomes
Upon the completion of this course, the learner should be able to:
- Differentiate the anatomy and biomechanics of the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand complexes.
- Outline accurate range of motion and manual muscle testing techniques for upper extremity joints and muscles.
- Differentiate common upper extremity diagnoses and develop appropriate treatment plans for conditions such as adhesive capsulitis, rotator cuff tendonitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Apply appropriate splinting techniques for various upper extremity injuries and conditions to improve occupational performance.
- Classify nerve injury types and compare treatment approaches for radial, median, and ulnar nerve injuries.
- Interpret the evaluation process and treatment protocols for flexor and extensor tendon repairs.
- Apply home exercise programs tailored to specific upper extremity diagnoses and stages of healing.
- Distinguish precautions and contraindications associated with different upper extremity conditions and surgical procedures.
- Predict appropriate manual therapy techniques and therapeutic exercises for upper extremity rehabilitation and return to function and occupational performance.
- Formulate treatment plans using clinical reasoning skills for complex upper extremity diagnoses and case studies.
About the Author/Presenter
Cynthia Diaz is a proud Florida International University graduate who has been a practicing occupational therapist for 17 years. Her professional journey has taken her to various realms of the healthcare world including orthopedic outpatient, inpatient, acute care, hospice, and school-based care. She cares deeply about being an advocate for her patients to increase function and enjoyment of life!
Audience/Accreditations and Approvals
Colibri Healthcare
This course is designed for the following healthcare professions (select your profession for details):
Massage Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy
If you require special accommodations, please contact Colibri Healthcare Support by clicking here: Contact Us
