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NED: Physical Therapy Program Development for Comprehensive Care of the Obstetric Patient
Tuesday, October 11, 2022, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM EDT
Category: Districts

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Where: Zoom Link (received upon registration) | In-Person: Lehigh Valley Health Network | Cedar Crest Campus – Auditorium | 1200 S Cedar Crest Blvd, Allentown, PA 18103

When: October 11, 2022 | 7:00-8:00 p.m. 

Course Description:

Physical therapists (PTs) play an important role in the obstetric care of pregnant and postpartum patients. PTs are skilled at evaluating patients and differentiating between musculoskeletal and medical diagnoses. They work closely with other members of the interprofessional obstetric team to provide the patient with comprehensive, culturally sensitive, evidence-based care. During pregnancy, patients experience various physical and emotional changes. They require education to know what is normal or safe and what requires intervention. These patients often have limited health literacy and rely on medical professionals for accurate information. Antepartum and postpartum physical therapy education and interventions can positively affect birth outcomes and postpartum maternal health. PTs promote wellness throughout the patient's pregnancy, encourage activity and safe exercise, and can intervene when needed for musculoskeletal conditions such as back and pelvic girdle pain. Additionally, therapists are skilled at providing interventions for the patient experiencing a high-risk pregnancy or various co-morbidities such as covid or neurologic impairments. More women with disabilities are presenting for pregnancy care and require assistance with their mobility. Postpartum treatment focuses on return to pre-pregnancy function, abdominal-pelvic reconditioning, and wellness for optimal health. In alignment with APTA’s mission, comprehensive obstetric care not only improves maternal health but the health of our society. This session will teach the participant how one health network integrates evidence-based in-patient and outpatient physical therapy services while working closely with other members of the medical team to optimize patients’ care during pregnancy and postpartum.

Speaker Bio:

Dr. Karen Snowden is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, board certified in women’s health (WCS), and holds specialty certifications through the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) in pelvic floor dysfunction (CAPP-Pelvic) and pregnancy / postpartum (CAPP-OB). She has been a practicing physical therapist for more than 25 years, currently specializing in women's health, and pelvic health in all genders. She is known for her comprehensive, holistic approach to helping diverse patients achieve their personal goals.

Karen received her physical therapy degree from Northeastern University and her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Widener University. In addition to treating patients, she teaches in the DeSales University Doctor of Physical Therapy Program and mentors student physical therapy research. She’s a national and international speaker educating physical therapists in pelvic and obstetric physical therapy. She co-developed and teaches an evidence-based menopause course to healthcare providers through: www.snowden&litos.com. She is active in the APTA Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy, serving on various education committees.

This course is approved for 0.5 direct access and 0.5 general contact hours.

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Contact: Colin McLaughlin: [email protected]