Rehabilitation of Nerve Transfers: Principles, Application,
and Case Studies (Recorded Webinar)

Video Runtime: 59 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 18 Minutes

Advancements in nerve transfer surgery restore hope and function in those who have sustained brachial plexus injuries. Timely diagnosis of brachial plexus injuries and a referral to centers specializing in this population are essential as nerve transfer surgery is time sensitive. Just as timely surgical intervention is essential to optimal recovery, pre- and postoperative rehabilitation plays a distinct and vital role in maximizing outcomes. Despite the lack of high-level studies on the best postoperative care for these injuries, a few key articles are valuable for therapists to be aware of; these articles offer essential knowledge and concepts that help therapists create effective and personalized rehabilitation programs. This webinar will synthesize the current evidence on postoperative management utilizing a biopsychosocial approach to meet the complex needs of those who have sustained brachial plexus injuries. The concepts will then be applied to two case studies of nerve transfers that restore elbow and shoulder function.

Learning Objectives

• Determine the stages of rehabilitation after nerve transfers
• Implement interventions to address cortical reorganization after nerve transfers
• Determine interventions to perform during each phase of the rehabilitation process after nerve transfers to support patient return to participation in meaningful occupations
• Apply evidence-informed nerve transfer rehabilitation concepts to case studies that foster elbow and shoulder functioning