Decision Making in Pediatric Neurologic Physical Therapy

This insightful new resource explores how to make the best possible clinical decisions for children with neurologic conditions. It uses actual case histories to demonstrate the way experienced physical therapists use scientific research, their professional experience, and an awareness of the specific needs of patients and families to choose a treatment strategy. This case study approach makes complex issues and conditions easier to understand.

Examines the scientific basis of practice with a wealth of references to current research in each chapter.

Describes models for decision making and their application to specific conditions and patients.

Reveals how experienced practitioners include family members in the decision making process, which measurements they make and how they make them, and how they justify their choice of treatment strategies and techniques based on theory and science.

Illustrates each patient case history with photographs of examination and treatment.

Reviews the assessment and treatment of commonly encountered pediatric neurologic conditions such as cerebral palsy and spina bifida, as well as approaches to managing infants at risk for developmental disabilities.