Case Study Integration (CSI): Distal Upper Extremity – Radial Head Fracture

12.8 Contact Hours / 1.28 CEUs

This online self-paced course takes an in-depth look at a complex elbow case in a patient post radial head fracture that involves several pain generating structures and perpetuating dysfunctions in the distal upper extremity. This is an applicable case for any outpatient orthopedic clinician and provides insight into the specifics of patho-anatomy, clinical screening and a comprehensive treatment approach. The participant will learn that some common upper extremity disorders can be early signs of coronary artery disease; tools are provided to help patients recognize oxidative stress and systemic inflammation. Joint health, muscle recovery and opportunities for optimal healing are presented in a multifocal lecture that also gives the participant handouts for patient education.

 Target Group: PT, PTA, OT, OTA, ATC

Educational Level: Intermediate

Course Outline

By the end of the course, the participant will be able to:
– Analyze patient history, based on pathoanatomy and biomechanics of the elbow complex, to formulate a working hypothesis of pathology prior to initiating the clinical examination.
– Establish a sound clinical diagnosis for physical therapy by thorough interpretation of clinical examination findings.
– Select specific clinical tests that are the most informative for diagnosis, causal factor, and perpetuator confirmation in a patient having difficulty recovering from a radial head fracture.
– Create a comprehensive plan of care that includes all the following: soft tissue and joint specific manual therapy, dry needling, and appropriate sensorimotor control strategies focused on control of distal upper extremity motion and load.
– Prioritize selective functional testing that supports the specific exercise program prescribed for a patient with elbow pain and stiffness complicated by wrist and myofascial dysfunction.
– Practice evidence-based psychosocial approaches, to engage and promote the patient-clinician relationship that leads to building rapport, optimal compliance, and better functional and clinical outcomes.
– Prioritize selective functional testing that supports the specific exercise program prescribed for a patient with elbow pain and stiffness and wrist dysfunction.
– Apply a multifocal approach in treatment that recognizes the contributions of metabolism, oxidative stress and systemic inflammation in the helping or hindering of healing.

• Financial: The instructor(s) receive an honorarium for presenting this course.
• Non-financial: The instructor(s) have no relevant non-financial relationships to disclose.
• Partial credit is not available. For online courses, passing module assessments and completing the course evaluation is required to earn continuing education credit. For live courses, attendance is confirmed by signing the attendance sheet at the course; ensure name and professional license number are accurate, and initial both morning and afternoon attendance.