Course Description

1.  Advanced Vestibular and Balance System Knowledge:

Learning Outcomes:

·         Gain a comprehensive understanding of the advanced anatomy and physiology of the vestibular and balance systems.

·         Differentiate the roles of the inner ear, visual, and somatosensory systems in maintaining balance.

·         Analyze the neural pathways and central processing involved in balance control.

Behavioral/Performance Objectives:

·         Accurately identify and label critical structures of the vestibular system on anatomical models and diagrams.

·         Explain the physiological mechanisms of balance, including otolithic and semicircular canal function, visual integration, and somatosensory feedback.

·         Describe the neural pathways involved in balance reflexes and postural adjustments.

2.  Vestibular and Balance System Disorders Diagnosis:

Learning Outcomes:

·         Develop expertise in distinguishing and differentially diagnosing common vestibular and balance disorders seen in a balance center program.

·         Understand the clinical presentations, pathophysiology, and diagnostic criteria for various PSC, ASC, and HSC-BPPV disorders.

·         Interpret the results of balance diagnostic tests and develop a comprehensive differential diagnosis.

Behavioral/Performance Objectives:

·         Accurately identify and differentiate between symptoms of common vestibular disorders like BPPV, Meniere's disease, and vestibular neuritis.

·         Perform and interpret bedside vestibular tests (Dix-Hallpike, head impulse test, etc.) proficiently.

·         Develop and present a differential diagnosis for a patient case study based on clinical presentation and test results.

3.  Advanced Bedside Tests and Treatments:

Learning Outcomes:

·         Master the implementation and execution of new and advanced bedside tests and treatments for simple to complex vestibular disorders.

·         Effectively utilize canalith repositioning maneuvers (CRMs) for various BPPV types.

·         Apply appropriate treatment techniques for PSC and ASC disorders based on current evidence-based practices.

Behavioral/Performance Objectives:

·         Demonstrate correct technique for performing canalith repositioning maneuvers for all types of BPPV.

·         Design and implement a treatment plan for a patient with PSC or ASC, incorporating appropriate exercises and modalities.

·         Evaluate the effectiveness of treatment interventions and modify the plan based on patient response.

4.  FYZICAL Clinical Treatment Algorithm (CTA):

Learning Outcomes:

·         Describe the theoretical, conceptual, and progressive frameworks of the FYZICAL Clinical Treatment Algorithm (CTA) in Vestibular Rehabilitation.

·         Understand the stages of the CTA and their application to different vestibular disorders.

·         Implement the CTA effectively in designing and progressing treatment plans for vestibular patients.

Behavioral/Performance Objectives:

·         Explain the rationale and evidence behind each stage of the FYZICAL CTA.

·         Apply the CTA to develop a treatment plan for a patient with a specific vestibular disorder, identifying appropriate exercises and progressions.

·         Monitor and adjust the treatment plan based on the patient's progress and response to each CTA stage.

5.  Sensory Mismatch and Reweighting Therapy:

Learning Outcomes:

·         Understand the theoretical framework of Sensory Mismatch and Sensory Reweighting Physical Therapy using the mCTSIB, CTSIB, and SOT.

·         Identify the clinical conditions where these techniques are most appropriate.

·         Apply Sensory Mismatch and Reweighting techniques in the treatment of vestibular disorders.

Behavioral/Performance Objectives:

·         Explain the principles of Sensory Mismatch and Sensory Reweighting in the context of vestibular rehabilitation.

·         Differentiate between the mCTSIB, CTSIB, and SOT techniques and their applications.

·         Design and implement a treatment session incorporating Sensory Mismatch or Reweighting techniques for a specific patient.

6.  Comprehensive Balance Diagnostic Tests:

Learning Outcomes:

·         Master the description and execution of all balance diagnostic functional tests used to assess and treat vestibular and balance disorders.

·         Interpret the results of various tests to identify specific balance impairments.

·         Utilize test results to inform treatment decision-making and monitor patient progress.

Behavioral/Performance Objectives:

·         Demonstrate proficiency in performing and interpreting standard balance tests like CTSIB, FGA, DGI, Fukuda, and Sharpened Romberg.

·         Analyze the results of gait and posture assessments to identify specific balance deficits.

·         Correlate test findings with clinical presentation to develop a targeted treatment plan.

7.  Outcome Measures in POC for Vestibular Disorders:

Learning Outcomes:

·         Develop a strong understanding of appropriate outcome measures in the assessment and treatment plan of care (POC) for patients with the most common vestibular and balance disorders.

·         Select and utilize outcome measures that are valid, reliable, and responsive to change in vestibular rehabilitation.

·         Monitor patient progress using outcome measures and adjust the POC as needed.

Behavioral/Performance Objectives:

·         Identify and explain the rationale for using specific outcome measures for different vestibular disorders.

·         Administer and score outcome measures accurately and efficiently.