DPT 788 Elective: Vestibular
This course will focus on the assessment and treatment of patients with vertigo and disequilibrium from vestibular causes. Material covered will include the neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of the normal vestibular system, the various pathological conditions that result in vertigo or disturbances in balance and the compensatory mechanisms available for recovery. Specific emphasis will be on the assessment and treatment of unilateral and bilateral vestibular hypofunction, benign paroxysmal positioning vertigo, central vestibular disorders, and multisensory dizziness. This information is applicable to a large patient population including geriatric patients as well as individuals with CNS lesions such as multiple sclerosis, CVA and head injury. All participants will be expected to demonstrate assessment skills to faculty including oculomotor examination, dynamic visual acuity assessment, BPPV with emphasis on the identification of nystagmus and appropriate canal involvement, balance and gait, fall risk and functional assessments. Participants will also be expected to demonstrate appropriate treatment procedures for BPPV affecting posterior, anterior and horizontal canals for both cupulolithiasis and canalithiasis, for unilateral and bilateral peripheral vestibular disorders, and for disorders resulting in motion sensitivity such as central vestibular disorders including traumatic brain injury. Emphasis will be on utilizing assessment results to develop an effective treatment plan. Concussion evaluation, treatment and management will also be covered secondary to the role of the vestibular system dysfunction in post-concussive syndrome and the importance of multi-modal approach to recovery. A variety of teaching methods will be utilized to include guest lecturers (physicians, neuro-optometrists, and audiologists), patients with vestibular dysfunction with in-class demonstrations of examination techniques specific to diagnosis, lab activities, and problem-based learning approach through case presentations. The benefit of interdisciplinary collaboration regarding testing and treatment of individuals with vestibular dysfunction and of individuals with significant risk of fall-related injury/fatality will be presented and demonstrated.
Prerequisite
Enrollment in the physical therapy program and successful completion of all prior coursework therein or permission of the course director and the Physical Therapy Program Director.
Offered
Spring A