Neuro-orthotics Study Day – 9 November 2013
With an audience consisting mainly of physiotherapists with facilitators from both orthotics (Paul Charlton & Duncan Marchbanks) and neurophysiotherapy (Richard Sealey) this was a great opportunity for a day’s learning, debate and discussion; theoretical and practical in the arena of Neuro-orthotics.
The ever important refresher on “biomechanics and gait in the states of recovery following neurological insult” was enthusiastically presented to focus us on the topic of the day with mention of difference specialists techniques. This was followed by principles of interventions with input from all.
A quick overview of SWIFT casting – more on its way for those that will be attending the Stroke Conference – highlighting its economic benefits and quick turnaround sounded promising in this presentation.
Paul Charlton’s self designed Hemi’ test was included in the “Practical assessment and outcome measures” presentation, along with suggestions and examples of a clinical assessment record for MDT documentation.
“Therapeutic clinical reasoning for orthotic management in neurorehabilitation” provoked debate on protocols for resting splints and the value of any muscle recruitment versus none.
The importance of communicating closely with other professions as an MDT approach was highlighted as resulting in a more rounded input giving better results, this included examples and suggestions for documentation.
The final part of the day included two patients divided between the attendees and the opportunity for questions and discussions. All in all a very worthwhile day at a reasonable cost.
