Full Title: Getting to the Heart of the Matter: Physical Therapy and the Autonomic Nervous System

Speaker(s): Rachel Wellons, PT, DPT, Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Neurologic Physical Therapy

CE Hours: 2

Disorders of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) have been underrecognized, underdiagnosed, and mismanaged by the healthcare system for a long time. Disorders such as concussion and Long COVID have increased the number of people impacted by dysautonomia. Physical Therapists possess the knowledge and ability to evaluate and treat these individuals. In this talk I’ll review the anatomy and physiology of the ANS and discuss its role in managing hemodynamic stability and blood flow to the brain during exercise. Next I’ll discuss the pathophysiology of common primary and secondary causes of dysautonomia. Emphasis will be placed on physical therapy exam, evaluation, and intervention of dysautonomia.