Online Educational Modules
To Increase Multiple Sclerosis Knowledge
For Physical Therapists
Project Overview
This project is a collaboration with Jen Tooher. We identifed a need for a comprehensive resource to provide physical therapists with current, evidence-based information about multiple sclerosis. Multiple modules were created along with supplemental resources. Each module consists of a 6-12 minute video reviewing the most current evidence. Topics include: Introduction to MS, MS Examination, Weakness, Spasticity, Balance, and Gait. Recommendations for outcome measures are also provided. The modules are available online to allow for easy access by PTs regardless of their geographic location.
Needs Assessment
An initial needs assessment survey was created to guide in the development of the modules. After sending the survey to nearly 2000 PTs, 70 PTs completed the survey. 90% indicated a strong interest in learning more about MS and 71% indicated an interest in receiving the modules. Jen and I plan to further compile data from the survey to be presented as an abstract and poster in 2014.
The survey can be viewed here.
Online Modules
The online modules are hosted on a google site: sites.google.com/site/MSmodules
Modules
- Introduction – Basic overview. What is MS?
- MS Examination – Considerations for PT examination of patients with MS.
- MS Symptom Management: Weakness, Spasticity, Balance, and Gait
- Outcome Measures – Recommendations for MS
Screen shot from the website:
A YouTube video was created for 6 of the modules. For an example, view the Spasticity Module:
[youtube]http://youtu.be/N3w9HoeJsak[/youtube]A pdf handout is also provided for each module. View the handout for the Spasticity module.
Supplemental Resources
Several additional resources are available on the module website. This includes several evidence tables.
Evidence table for Spasticity Interventions
Evidence table for Postural Control in MS
Evidence table for Cognitive & Motor Dual-task
Evidence-Based Practice II
The evidence table for Postural Control in MS that is included on the modules website was initially created as an assignment for the EBP II class in Fall 2012. The evidence table led to the creation of a research paper about postural control in MS. The paper sought to answer the question: In patients age 30-50 with multiple sclerosis and impaired balance, are interventions to improve postural control more effective in decreasing falls risk than resistance exercise? The short answer is yes, postural controls interventions are more effective. For the long answer, read my Research Paper evaluating postural control vs resistance exercise for balance impairment.
Poster Presentation
A poster about the modules will be presented on Thursday, May 30th at the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers (CSMC) Annual Conference in Orlando, Fl.
Availability of Modules for Continuing Competence Credit
We are working with AHEC to host the modules on the Eastern AHEC website. If it works out, it will be available for 0.1 CEU for $10. Stay tuned!
Acknowledgements
To my capstone partner, Jen Tooher, thank you for all of your hard work at every step and willingness to provide feedback at any time day or night! To our advisor, Angela Rosenberg, and our committee members, Diane Meyer, Erica Gaskins, and Melissa Mahon, thank you all for your guidance through this process. Your expertise and passion for MS is amazing!