Program Objectives and Goals

Goal #1 is to become a clinically proficient physiatrist able to diagnose and assess spasticity

Objective 1: Recognition of spasticity after neurological impairments (Brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy etc)

Objective 2: Recognition of differences in spasticity patterns after these neurological impairments, and differences among other forms of motor disorders, including dystonia, paratonia, rigidity

Objective 3: Recognition of complications and spasticity-related signs and symptoms, such as abnormal gait, posture, motor control etc.

Objective 4: Understanding of comprehensive rehabilitation care for spasticity and related sequela after the above neurological impairments

Objective 5: Comprehensive assessment of spasticity and its related sequalae.

Objective 6: Recognition of the need of diagnostic block to differentiate spasticity from contracture

Objective 7: Recognition of oversight of the rehabilitation team from acute care to long-term follow-up and interfacing with therapists, orthotists and other integral member of the team care for those with spasticity.

 

Goal #2 is to effectively manage patients with spasticity

Objective 1: Establishing appropriate management, including pharmacological agents, bracing and orthosis, interventions (botulinum toxin injections and nerve blocks with phenol and cryotherapy), intrathecal baclofen pump management and surgical interventions

Objective 2: Effectively performing ultrasound (US)- or EMG-guided botulinum toxin injections

Objective 3: Effectively performing US- and electrical stimulation (EStim)-guided nerves blocks with phenol and cryotherapy

Objective 4: Effectively performing US- and EStim-guided lidocaine diagnostic blocks, and referring to orthopedic surgery if indicated

Objective 5: Exposing to ITB trials and ITB pump implantation procedures, and effectively performing pump refills and trouble shooting

Objective 6: Recognizing and effectively managing complications and side effects of interventions

 

Goal #3 is to develop an academic basis for PM&R with expertise in spasticity

Objective 1: Reading relevant publications related to spasticity and upper motor neuron syndrome after various neurological impairments

Objective 2: Performing a research project including application of the scientific method with development of a hypothesis, a model producing results, statistical analysis and conclusion.

Objective 3: The publication of scientific information, including the preparation of the manuscript to include the production of appropriate bibliography and illustrations and content of the manuscript and process of peer review through publication.

Objective 4: Critical review of the literature including editorial process.

Objective 5: Submitting at least a research paper and attending at least one of the following annual conferences:  American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (AAPMR), Academy of Academic Physiatrists (AAP), American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine (ACRM).