Online Course Curriculum
Introduction to Basic TASES Upper Quarter and Lower Quarter- Introduction to the current research, indications for use of TASES, using the unit, evaluation, treatment planning, and application.
TASES for the Pelvis
TASES for the Trunk
Intermediate Gait and TASES
In Person Course Curriculum
Level 1 TASES In Person
Level 2 TASES In Person
Level 1 TASES is a 2-day in-person course from 9 am to 5 pm. This course is lecture and lab-based and focuses on A Framework for the Application of Electric Stimulation for Children. Day one focuses on the basics of TASES and electrical stimulation. Lectures review and synthesize the current literature on the physiology of muscles affected by cerebral palsy (CP), spasticity, spasticity management, and bracing considerations. Students learn how to evaluate alignment and posture in sitting and standing, analyze movement patterns and gait, and begin to plan the TASES treatment based on appropriate muscle choice. On day 1, students also learn to adjust parameters and use an NMES unit. In lab sessions, students practice TASES on each other on the medial gastrocnemius and the gluteus maximus muscles during sitting and standing. Students also practice using TASES during transitions such as sit-to-stand and half-kneeling. In addition, we add TASES to several pelvic muscles that assist the child with sitting balance and stability, head and trunk control, and increased lower extremity mobility.
Day two elaborates on upper quarter TASES application, emphasizing reach and grasp, prone activities, and creeping on hands and knees. Additional instruction for TASES application to more trunk, core, and pelvic musculature is covered. Finally, gait lab with training using the switch completes the course. Live patient demonstrations are possible each day, depending on time and prior arrangements.
Level 2 TASES In person includes more exploration of musculature specific to diagnosis, movement pattern dysfunction, and combinations using multiple units. Live demonstrations and labs including children are included.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the current literature and updated thinking about cerebral palsy, spasticity, and physiology of musculature in individuals with neuromuscular disorders.
- Evaluate a child to use TASES as an intervention and understand the impact of alignment.
- Create a treatment plan using TASES as the primary intervention based on PT/OT problems, clinical rationale, evidence, and patient/family goals.
- Apply TASES using correct parameters, muscle choice, electrode placement, and timing using the switch based on desired outcomes and task.
- Apply sound clinical decision-making principles within the indications, precautions, and contraindications of electrical stimulation.
- Set up an appropriate task for TASES treatment with proper alignment, posture, movement pattern, and environment.
- Evaluate and adjust the use of orthosis to allow for activation and strengthening of the muscles while also preserving structure and optimizing function.