This 2-day evidence-based comprehensive 16-hour concussion course was created to both provide a thorough education on concussion and an engaging experience that one can walk out of with confidence treating concussion independently. The clinician will learn the foundational concepts needed to evaluate and treat Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) safely and effectively.
There is a lab emphasis in this concussion course designed to learn not just the concepts of evaluation/treatment but also bridge the gap between foundational knowledge and practice. Clinicians will have the opportunity to spend time developing critical thinking skills, develop confidence in answering complex patient hypotheticals, and feel well prepared to treat concussions immediately following the course.
Participants will review foundational knowledge and current literature regarding pathophysiology, helmet technology, on-field management, sideline assessment, vestibulo-ocular dysfunction, chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), and neurocognitive testing.
Instructional material is evidence-based and fits within the biopsychosocial model of physical therapy treatment. Upon completion of the course, clinicians should feel comfortable evaluating, treating, and making decisions regarding mTBI both in a competitive sports environment and clinic setting. (Approved for 16 hours continuing education)
Host Clinic:
Bodycentral, Tucson AZ
1991 E Ajo Way Tucson, AZ 85712
August 24-25, 2024
Day 1:
8:00 AM-9:50 AM - Pathophysiology + incidence rates
9:50 AM-10:00 AM - Break
10:00 AM-11:15 AM - On-field management, sideline technology + helmet technology lectures
11:15 AM-12:00 PM - Sideline assessment lab - SCAT5
12:00 PM-1:00 PM - Lunch
1:00 PM-1:50 PM - On-field management case scenario lab
1:50 PM-2:00 PM - Break/transition
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM - Concussion trajectories
4:00 PM - 4:10 PM - Break
4:10 PM - 5:30 PM - CTE, TES, + Second Impact syndrome overview
Day 2:
8:00 AM - 9:50 AM - Vestibular dysfunction pathophysiology and assessment
10:00 AM - 10:50 AM - Vestibular assessment + treatment lab
10:50 AM -11:00 AM - Break
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM - PT clinic evaluation
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM - Lunch
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM - VOMS + PT evaluation lab/demo + general treatment lab
2:30-2:40 PM - Break
2:40 PM- 4:00 PM - PCS + Chronic pain - similarities and differences, CPGs
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM - Time for questions, course evaluation, and post-course test.
Ethan Paster PT, DPT, SCS, CSCS is a 2015 graduate of Saint Louis University.
Since graduating he has completed a formal Sports Residency Program with Bodycentral Physical Therapy and attained his Board Certification in Sports Physical Therapy (SCS). In addition to this, he is an ImPACT trained Physical Therapist in concussion rehabilitation and management and a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist.
During and after his Sports residency program Ethan gained experience evaluating and treating concussions on-field and in the clinic with football, gymnastics, wrestling, and with high-level military personnel. He has been instrumental in on-field and in-clinic treatment for the FC Tucson professional soccer team as well as for local youth and high school leagues throughout his tenure with Bodycentral.
He currently teaches concussion management in the Therapy Partners Group/Bodycentral PT sports residency program and serves as the Director of concussion management and director of sports medicine and athletic performance for Bodycentral PT. Outside of work, he has participated in CrossFit semi-competitively for 10 years and also enjoys soccer, rock climbing, and skiing.
Upon completion of this course participants will be able to:
1) Describe the pathophysiologic process of concussion at the cellular level in the brain.
2) Understand red flags, precautions, and contraindications to Physical Therapy treatment following a concussion.
3) Perform on-field and sideline assessment using SCAT5 of an athlete with a suspected concussion.
4) Demonstrate knowledge of current evidence regarding protective headwear as it relates to concussion.
5) Develop an in-depth understanding of the six major concussion trajectories and understand when/where their paths may intersect.
6) Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for patients following a concussion.
7) Perform a full concussion evaluation including but not limited to: cervical assessment, VOMS testing, balance testing, vision testing, and exercise tolerance testing.
8) Identify and treat vestibular dysfunction in the concussed patient.
9) Demonstrate the ability to educate patients and family members regarding current literature for CTE, TES, and second impact syndrome.
10) Demonstrate an understanding of proper school, sport, and work limitations following concussion.
11) Review and create a return to learning plan for returning to learning environments.
12) Demonstrate the ability to work as a team with PCPs, PAs, Neurologists, and Sports Medicine MDs to provide a comprehensive treatment approach to concussion patients.
The Concussion Certification Course is an invaluable resource for physical therapists (PTs) who strive to elevate their patient care practice. This specialized program is crucial, as early recognition and treatment of concussions are vital to the health outcomes of patients. A concussion, often deemed a 'silent injury,' requires astute awareness and swift intervention to mitigate long-term damage. The Concussion Certification Course is meticulously designed to empower PTs with the latest knowledge and practical skills in concussion management. Through this course, PTs will be better equipped to detect subtle signs, efficiently respond to initial injury, and expertly guide patients through their recovery journey, thus optimizing the healing process. Enhance your expertise in concussion management today, and make a significant difference in your patients' lives tomorrow.