Title: Basic Nutrition for the Physical Therapist presented by Jillian D. Caster, PT, DPT

Course Description:
As physical therapists we are educated on holistic treatment of our patients. We examine the whole individual and address issues at the source to help our patients regain optimal health and function. One component of this equation, that is often overlooked, is nutrition. The food that we eat affects every system in our bodies and is the source of many chronic diseases; however, the amount of time allocated to nutrition in most physical therapist and physical therapist assistant programs is very limited. Without basic knowledge or education on this topic it is no surprise nutrition is often omitted from physical therapist patient/client management. Our bodies need proper nutrition to maintain optimal function in a healthy state. It becomes even more essential when the body is trying to heal- regardless of the deficit. In this course we will explore the foundations of nutrition and discover why it is an essential component in the rehabilitation of our patients. We will also learn some practical applications that can be incorporated into practice immediately.

More About Speaker:
Jillian D. Caster, PT, DPT, is a Certified Wound Specialist, Certified Lymphedema Therapist and a Nutrition Therapy Consultant, Nutrition Therapy Association. Jillian is a full-time Assistant Teaching Professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Gannon University. She has developed expertise in nutrition through advanced training and work with patients in multiple settings. She offers practical education and suggestions to her patients and students. Publications: Gibbs K, Wendland D. Co-editors: Caster J, Billek-Sawhney B. Integumentary Considerations for the Older Adult: Age-Related Changes, Common Problems, and Impact of Prevention. American Physical Therapy Association: Academy of Geriatrics. July 2020

Contact hour Approval: APPROVED FOR 1 GENERAL CONTACT HOUR