The
pathology component of this course focuses on the pathological processes that
result in neurological injury and impairment. The anatomy and physiology of the
nervous system will be used first to review normal function and then to
illustrate the physiological basis for loss of function occurring with trauma
or disease. Functional losses associated with central and peripheral nervous
system pathology will include motor, sensory, affective and cognitive behavior.
Processes that contribute to nervous system pathology such as trauma, genetics
and external and internal environments will be presented in relation to
etiology, prognosis and therapeutic interventions. The pathology presented will
include congenital, neurodegenerative, and traumatic conditions that affect the
neuromuscular system.
The pharmacologic component of this course will focus on the use of
pharmacology, particularly as it impacts the practice of neurologic physical
therapy. Content will focus on specific pharmacological agents used in the
medical management of neurological patient problems encountered by physical
therapists. Pharmacological agents presented will include those used to treat
neuromuscular as well as affective and cognitive impairments experienced by
neurological patients. These treatments will be learned in relation to the
primary and secondary pathologies that arise from nervous system pathology and
their relationship to impairment and recovery, where applicable.
The third component of this course will focus on diagnostic technologies
commonly used in the diagnosis and medical management of patients with nervous
system pathology and dysfunction. Diagnostic technologies discussed will
include CT, PET, MRI, EEG, EMG and NCV.