Rett Syndrome: Clinical Presentation, Physical Therapy Evaluation and Treatment
Presenter(s) Name(s) and Email Address(es):
David Brunette, PT, DPT
[email protected]
Module Description:
This module is designed to enhance the resident’s knowledge and clinical skills in the management of Rett syndrome and related neurodevelopmental disorders. The asynchronous learning module includes content on pathophysiology and diagnosis, physical impairments, activity limitations, treatment interventions, outcome measures, and evidence-based practice relevant to this population. Following completion of the module content, the resident will complete an assignment that includes required readings and two case studies focused on clinical application, treatment planning, and care coordination within a multidisciplinary setting. The course concludes with a knowledge translation plan designed to support integration of the concepts and clinical reasoning developed through the module and case studies into clinical practice.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this module, participants will:
1. Develop and apply knowledge of the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and evidence-based assessment and intervention strategies for individuals with Rett syndrome and related disorders.
2. Understand appropriate referrals and multidisciplinary communication needed for management of individuals diagnosed with Rett Syndrome.
3. Develop and discuss appropriate goals for treating patients with Rett Syndrome across the lifespan.
4. Evaluate the purpose, validity, and reliability of specific outcome measures used to assess impairments, functional skills and participation for individuals with Rett Syndrome.
5. Discuss identified outcome measures and analyze their limitations working with this patient population during a plan of care.
6. Integrate current evidence-based PT interventions and management strategies for individuals with Rett Syndrome in case-based assignments and discussions.
Estimated Educational Hours:
1. Asynchronous narrated lecture: 1.5 hours
2. Resident required readings and assignment: 1 hour
3. Knowledge translation worksheet: 1 hour
Presenter Bio:
David Brunette is a physical therapist with the Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore, MD. Since graduating from the University at Buffalo in 2020, David has specialized in the treatment of neurodevelopmental conditions across the lifespan, with particular focus working with adolescents and adults. At the Institute, he is a part of the Rett Syndrome and Related Disorders Multidisciplinary Clinic and Outpatient Physical Therapy Department. The Rett Syndrome and Related Disorders Clinic at Kennedy Krieger is one of fifteen institutions in the United States designated as a Center of Excellence by the International Rett Syndrome Foundation.
Confidentiality Agreement:
● Please respect intellectual property rules. All content is intended for your use only.
● All registered participants are required to sign a confidentiality agreement, which requires that they DO NOT distribute course material.
Asynchronous Content:
● Participants should view the narrated lecture prior to the virtual meeting if one is scheduled.
● A handout is included with the slides from the presentation video.
Assignment and Required Readings:
● Review the patient cases provided in the Resident Assignment document and answer the corresponding questions.
● Read the required readings provided.
Knowledge Translation Reflection:
● After finishing all components of the module, complete a Knowledge Translation Reflection (see worksheet posted with other course materials) and discuss with your residency mentor(s) or program director.
Please email the presenters if you have any questions about the content or assignments.
If you have questions about registration or the Consortium, please contact Elena Bradley at [email protected].