When: September 21st, 2024 

(sponsored by IVY Rehab)

Where: Live-Online 

Continence is a challenge for many of the families encountered by paediatric PTs and OTs. However, few rehabilitation professionals feel confident to address these needs, and lack relevant tools to address them in the context of the clinical setting. Standard behavioural and environmental interventions seem to fall short for neurodivergent children (and many neurotypical kids). In this 2-day hybrid course Shelley Mannell, PT and Julie Wiebe, PT will equip the paediatric professional with an updated and accessible framework that integrates the postural control, neuromuscular, and pressure systems that contribute to continence (its more than just a pelvic floor problem). Providers will gain relevant strategies that complement their existing skill set to address continence control issues alongside other treatment needs while honoring the unique circumstances of families and children with developmental, sensory, and motoric challenges. Clinical reasoning will be offered to support application across the continuum of needs for both neurodivergent and neurotypical children from birth to adulthood.

Day 1 Online (September 21st, 2024): Participants are introduced to a dynamic systems assessment of continence challenges. New intervention strategies are discussed that simultaneously address the interconnection between postural control, balance, gait, constipation, and continence. Concepts basic to the Dynamic Core for Kids approach will be highlighted and expanded with a specific focus on breath mechanics as a gateway into the interlinked central control and continence systems. There will also be discussion regarding further interconnections between sensory processing and emotional regulation within the context of continence.

Day 2 In-person (October 5th, 2024): Participants will have the opportunity to explore both functional, movement- based assessment tools, as well as, hands-on external assessment of diaphragm and pelvic floor function for application in appropriate cases. Assessment of abdominal wall integrity, the significance of congenital Diastasis Recti Abdominis on continence and balance as well as treatment options/progression will be explored. (Attendance on Day One is a prerequisite to attendance on Day Two.)

For more information and to register, click here (coming soon!).

Objectives

On completion of Day One, the participant will be able to:

1. Discuss the prevalence of continence issues 3 different paediatric populations.
2. List 4 modifiable lifestyle factors that can have an impact on continence in both neurotypical and neurodivergent children.
3. Develop 3 constipation intervention strategies for parents to help prevent nighttime accidents.
4. Describe the link between postural control and continence control.
5. Integrate breath mechanics as a gateway for pressure management in 3 therapeutic activities.

On completion of Day Two, the participant will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a basic level of skill in assessment of components of the central control system – Diaphragm, Transversus Abdominis, and Pelvic Floor (including external palpation with consent).
2. Articulate and identify functional and movement pattern deficits that reflect the interrelationship of central control and continence deficits.
3. Discuss and devise intervention strategies that address balance, gait, postural control, and movement inefficiencies that simultaneously offer continence control support.
4. Demonstrate a basic level of skill in assessment of Congenital DRA.
5. Develop intervention strategies to manage Congenital DRA in different age groups/physical capabilities.