Exercise to Enhance Neuroplasticity in Persons with Parkinson’s Disease: Using the Evidence to Guide

November 2nd at the Everett-Milton YMCA in Thomasville, GA

This course will provide a foundation of basic principles of neuroplasticity for discussion of evidence-based treatment interventions for persons with Parkinson’s Disease. Through a variety of interactive activities, participants will have the opportunity to review relevant neuroanatomy, as well as current theories of practice in Parkinson’s Disease. Demonstrations and discussions of ways to enhance neuroplasticity in the choices of physical and occupational therapy interventions, will provide participants strategies to immediately incorporate into their practice. 

Course Hours

8 contact hours (.8 CEUs) pending approval by FPTA* and ALAPTA

Course Objectives

After this course, the participant will be able to:

• Compare and contrast normal neuroanatomy with the effects of Parkinson’s Disease.
• Illustrate ways neuroplasticity research can be applied to persons with Parkinson’s Disease.
• Identify movement difficulties in Parkinson’s Disease that will be best targeted by interventions to enhance neuroplasticity.
• Develop strategies to improve the movement patterns and function of patients with Parkinson’s Disease.

Course Schedule

• 7:30 Sign-In
  
• 8:00 Introduction
  
• 8:15 What do you know about Neuroanatomy?: A review to help provide a foundation for understanding the research on Neuroplasticity
• 9:15 BREAK
  
• 9:30 How exercise drives Neuroplasticity
  
• 10:30 Overview of Parkinson’s Disease (Stages, Signs, Symptoms)
• 11:00 Group video activity: Brainstorming Treatment Ideas
• 12:00 LUNCH (on your own)
  
• 1:00 Sharing from Group activities: Discussion of brainstormed treatment ideas and the neurological basis of them
• 2:00 Current Research on Best Practices with Patients with Parkinson’s
• 3:00 BREAK
  
• 3:15 Demo and Practice
  
• 4:30 Wrap up / Questions
  
• 5:00 Adjourn