Advanced Physical Therapy Examination of Individuals with
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Presented by Anne Kloos
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Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a degenerative disease affecting motor neurons resulting in complex issues impacting health, function, and participation. Therapists must be equipped to provide care all stages of the disease in an ever-changing health care environment. This course provides the physical therapist advanced knowledge in examination and treatment of the client with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis across all stages of the disease. Information is presented using a case study example interwoven with evidence-based information. On completion of this course, the therapist will be able to apply evidence-based tests and measures to examinations and interventions for the treatment of individuals with ALS across the full spectrum of the disease.
Meet your instructor
Anne Kloos
Anne Kloos received her physical therapy degree from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and her master’s and doctoral degrees in biology/neuroscience from Cleveland State University. Dr. Kloos is currently a professor-clinical in the physical therapy division at The Ohio State University, where she teaches adult…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Differentiating Classical ALS and Its Variants
Classical ALS involves degeneration of both upper and lower motor neurons, resulting in upper and lower motor neuron signs and symptoms. Variants of ALS include bulbar onset ALS, progressive muscular atrophy, primary lateral sclerosis, and ALS with frontotemporal dementia. This chapter provides the therapist advanced knowledge about the differential characteristics of classical ALS and its variants.
2. Evidence-Based Examination and Treatment for the Client with ALS
Appropriate management of the client with ALS is based on application of evidence-based examination tests and measures and treatment interventions. This chapter prepares the therapist to select and use appropriate examination techniques and interventions across all stages of the disease.
3. Providing PT Across the Course of the Disease: Case Study
In this chapter, knowledge gained about current best practice for physical therapy management of a client with ALS will be applied to a case study. Rationale for selection of examination outcome measures and interventions across all of the disease stages will be presented. Reimbursement issues will be briefly discussed.