The Shoulder: Integrating Kinesiology and Treatment for the Child with Neuromuscular Involvement

This two-day course will integrate the anatomy and kinesiology of the shoulder complex with clinical applications to movement and function. Although the course is offered in two, one-day parts, each is designed to complement the other. Day 1, taught by Don Neumann, PT, PhD, FAPTA, will address the anatomic and kinesiologic foundation of normal function of the shoulder complex (from thorax through the arm). Discussions include muscle and joint interactions associated with reach as well as weight bearing through the upper limb. Much of the material is based on material from Don Neumann’s textbook, published in 8 languages: Kinesiology of the Musculoskeletal System (2017). The material covered in Day I will be delivered in traditional lecture format, and will be applicable to all age groups and areas of clinical practice. Day 1 will provide much of the foundations for Day 2.

Day 2, taught by Diane Fitts Ryan, OTR/L and Gay L. Girolami, PT, PhD, C/NDT, will 
concentrate on the clinical application of Dr. Neumann’s content to address shoulder girdle impairments in children and adolescents with neurological conditions. Because shoulder girdle 
mobility, alignment and stability directly impact posture as well as upper and lower extremity function, understanding the relationship between the shoulder girdle, trunk and pelvis are critical to improve function in this population. 

Participants will practice strategies to address shoulder girdle impairments that impact functions, such as sitting posture for reach and grasp, upper extremity weight bearing for transitions, and higher-level gross motor skills, such as climbing. Lecture, movement labs and videos will be used to guide the students’ appreciation of the impact of abnormal shoulder girdle mobility, alignment and how to facilitate the child for improved function.