Teaching Effective Ways to Examine and Treat Spasticity and Weakness and Their Effects on Motor Function
Diane L. Damiano · Neurology Report · 2001
This article is based on a presentation given at the Combined Sections Meeting in February 2001 on the topic listed above. While the presentation itself was primarily didactic, a more personalized and philosophical approach was adopted here. The author discusses 3 recommendations from her research and clinical experience in the field that she considers important for enhancing neurological education and practice in the area of spasticity. The first was to urge readers to freely question even our most widely held beliefs if they are in discord with other knowledge and experiences. The second was to further promote the use of objective and quantitative assessments, particularly those which are the most functionally relevant to our patients. The third was to suggest ways to foster professional self-esteem and respect through emphasis on interdisciplinary interaction, intradisciplinary excellence, and evidence based practice. Specific research and clinical examples are included throughout to illustrate these recommendations.