AACPDM 69th Annual Conference October 21st in Austin, Texas: Tarjan Trainee Kent Heberer's Presentation

The Role of Motion Analysis in “Other” Neuromuscular Disabilities (Hosted by GCMAS)

October 21st

8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Presenters: Sylvia Õunpuu, MSc; Kristan Pierz, MD; Haluk Altiok, MD; Joseph Krzak, PhD, PT, PCS; Kirsten Tulchin, PhD; Susan Sienko, PhD; Michael Sussman, MD; Kent Heberer, PhD

Purpose: The purpose of this course is to highlight the role of motion analysis in understanding complex gait disorders other than cerebral palsy. Gait pathologies that will be discussed through the lens of motion analysis will include: CharcotMarie-Tooth, myelomeningocele, familial spastic paraplegia and Duchene’s muscular dystrophy. The role of motion analysis in these populations in both the standard of care for treatment decision-making as well as knowledge gained through research that both incorporate motion analysis techniques will be discussed. Case examples will be provided that illustrate knowledge gained, treatment decisions made and treatment outcomes evaluated using gait analysis data.

Course Summary: This course will provide a detailed review of how comprehensive motion analysis techniques has changed our understanding of the pathomechanics of gait and treatment outcomes in children with neuromuscular disorders other than cerebral palsy.

Target Audience: Clinicians who evaluate and provide treatment for ambulatory children and youth with cerebral palsy and other movement disorders will benefit from this symposium. Prior experience analyzing and interpreting motion analysis data is beneficial, but not required.

Learning Objectives: At the end of the symposium participants will be able to: 1. Appreciate the limitations of a visual assessment in comparison to comprehensive gait analysis in understanding gait pathology 2. Describe the typical gait patterns characteristic of a variety of neuromuscular disorders 3. Understand the gait indications for specific treatment options 4. Identify “new frontiers” in motion analysis and how these may influence understanding and treatment of neuromuscular disorders.