
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee College of Health Sciences-Outreach Office presents
the 2023 Wisconsin Hand Experience In-person or Live Online
Wisconsin Hand Experience℠2023
Paving the Road to Becoming a
Master Clinician

Join us May 4-6, 2023
LIVE: In-person or Online
Enhance your therapeutic skills and earn up to 1.7 CEUs (17 Contact Hours) when you attend all three days of the conference. Online attendees can watch Thursday & Friday’s presentations live using our event platform with a web browser or mobile device (internet access required). In-person and online attendees will use the event platform to ask panel questions and network with each other and exhibitors. In-person attendees can choose from five face-to-face Saturday Workshops (early registration sign-ups receive priority placement). Online attendees have the option of attending the Documentation, Coding, and Compliance for Hand Rehabilitation Saturday workshop.
Invisible First Row
Overarching Conference Learning Outcomes:
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Evaluate the presence of TFCC injuries by performing provocative and objective testing in the context of daily activities and collaborate with patients to determine meaningful treatment goals.
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Classify TFCC tears based on their impact on daily activities and compare and contrast them with other types of wrist injuries to help patients understand their injury and its impact on their occupations.
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Identify common sites of injury within the TFCC and common concomitant injuries and collaborate with patients to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates their daily activities and goals.
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Develop activity modifications, exercises, and proprioception techniques for TFCC injuries that are based on meaningful occupations and explain how they support patients in engaging in their valued activities.
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Analyze and differentiate between different causes of medial and lateral elbow pain in relation to patients’ daily activities and collaborate with patients to design a treatment plan tailored to their needs and goals.
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Outline a systematic approach to diagnose and treat different causes of elbow pain that is centered on patients’ daily activities and incorporate evidence-based interventions that support their participation in valued occupations.
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Explain basic principles of yoga practice and how they can be employed in the hand therapy setting to support patients in engaging in their valued activities and collaborate with patients to select appropriate yoga techniques based on their goals and preferences.
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Evaluate the evidence for the application of yoga in rehabilitation in the context of patients’ daily activities and goals and explain how it can support their participation in valued occupations.
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Describe the workings of the lymphatic system and how it can be stimulated through incorporation of Manual Edema Mobilization (MEM) in relation to patients’ daily activities and recognize edema and proximal congestion in the upper extremity that may impact their occupational performance.
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Explain the etiology of CMC arthritis and the history of nonsurgical and surgical treatments in relation to patients’ daily activities and develop an algorithm for treatment based on clinical/radiographic findings, patient activity/expectations, and their occupational goals.
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Summarize detailed surgical anatomy of CMC tightrope and internal brace techniques in relation to patients’ functional use deficits and daily activities and collaborate with patients to develop interventions that support their engagement in meaningful occupations.
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Distinguish between when it is appropriate to perform joint mobilization techniques directly to the thumb CMC joint and when it could be harmful based on patients’ occupational demands and develop interventions that are meaningful and support their occupational goals.
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Compare and contrast the differences between elastic taping and other conventional taping methods in relation to patients’ daily activities and select appropriate therapeutic interventions that support their occupational performance.
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Describe precautions and contraindications of elastic taping that are specific to patients’ daily activities, and advocate for increased patient access to hand therapy services that support their engagement in valued occupations.
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Identify a variety of practical interventions for post-operative rotator cuff repairs that are relevant to patients’ daily activities and goals and explain how they can support their occupational performance.
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Identify how to contact legislators and ask for their support of hand therapy legislation that increases patient access to services that support their occupational performance, and advocate for policies that promote engagement in valued occupations.
Level of Instruction:
Intermediate
Target Audience:
OTs, OTAs, PTs, PTAs, ATs, and Hand Therapists
Relevance to Occupational Therapy:
Category 1: Occupational Therapy Service Delivery
Presenters
Invisible First Row
Megan Bjella, OTR, RYT-200
Teresa Casagranda, PT, DPT, CHT, CKTI, GTS
Vivian Dim, HBSc, BHSc (OT), MClSc, CHT, LLCC, IIWCC
William Dzwierzynski, MD
Steven Goldberg, MD
Gregory Kolovich, MD
Marsha Lawrence, PT, DPT, CHT
Invisible First Row
Michael Lennie, OTR/L, CHT, ATC
Kristiana Maggard, MS, OTR
Theresa Parry, OTR, CHT, COMT
Bob Phillips, OTR, CHT, COMT
Ann Porretto-Loehrke, PT, DPT, CHT, COMT, CMTPT
David Ross, MD
Wisconsin Hand Experience℠ 2023
May 4-6, 2023
In-Person in Milwaukee
Crowne Plaza Milwaukee South 6401 South 13th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53221 $103.00 Single/Double Room Rates. Make reservations online or by calling (414) 764-5300 by April 4, 2023. For the room rate you must identify yourself as a member of “University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee”.
May 4-6
Watch LIVE In-Person or Online
17 Contact Hours
20% OFF Groups of 3 or More
In-Person Workshops
Elastic Taping Techniques for the Upper Extremity, Manual Edema Mobilization (MEM) Techniques for the UE, Documentation, Coding, and Compliance for Hand Rehabilitation Services, Orthotic Fabrication Workshop, Joint Mobilization for the Elbow and Forearm.
Live Online Workshop
The “Documentation, Coding, and Compliance for Hand Rehabilitation Services” workshop will be Live Streamed.
Live Stream from Anywhere
Online Exhibitors & Networking for All Attendees
Watch Live Online
Livestream Sessions using the Event Platform
- Watch from a Computer Web Browser or Mobile Device App with Internet Connection
- View Content LIVE at Full Screen
- Participate in Panel Discussion Questions
- Network with All Attendees & Exhibitors
- Download & View Handouts
- Participate in a Giveaway to WIN Free Wisconsin Hand Experience℠ Registration for 2024!
- View Agenda, PPT Slides, Workshop & Session Details & Speaker Bios
- More Details Coming Soon!

Thursday, May 4, 12:00pm-5:00pm CT
11:00AM
In-Person Registration Check-In & Exhibits Open
12:00PM
Welcome & Introduction
Ann Porretto-Loehrke, PT, DPT, CHT, COMT, CMTPT, Hand to Shoulder Center of Wisconsin, Appleton, WI
12:15PM
Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) Injury and Repair
William Dzwierzynski, MD, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee WI
This presentation will discuss the anatomy of the TFCC along with provocative and objective testing. Classifications of TFCC tears and acute and chronic TFCC injuries will be explained.
1:00pm
A Therapist’s Management of TFCC Injuries
Theresa Parry, OTR, CHT, COMT, Hand to Shoulder Center of Wisconsin, Appleton, WI
This presentation will take an in-depth look at the complexities of the TFCC and how all its components work together. It will explore the specific structures that often sustain injury and what a therapist can do to manage them. Using real case examples, the presentation will discuss how manual therapy, orthotics, taping, activity modification, exercise, and proprioception can treat TFCC injuries.
1:45PM
Break
2:15PM
Medial and Lateral Elbow Pain from a Surgeon’s Perspective
3:00PM
Treatment of Medial and Lateral Elbow Pain
Michael Lennie, OTR/L, CHT, ATC, Duly Health and Care, Westmont, IL
3:45PM
Yoga Techniques to Promote UE Function
Megan Bjella, OTR, RYT-200, UW Health, Madison, WI
4:30PM
Panel Discussion
5:00PM
Adjourn
6:00PM
Exhibits Close
Thursday Learning Outcomes
- Discuss the anatomy of the TFCC
- Evaluate for TFCC injuries by performing provocative and objective testing
- Explain the classifications of TFCC tears
- Describe therapeutic treatments for acute and chronic TFCC injuries
- Identify the components of the TFCC and its function
- Outline common sites of injury within the TFCC and common concomitant injuries
- Explain use of external supports for stability
- Identify activity modifications, exercises, and proprioception techniques for TFCC injuries
- Explain the differential diagnosis of elbow pain
- Identify how to evaluate and treat various elbow pain conditions
- Summarize how to improve elbow pain patient outcomes
- Differentiate between different causes of medial and lateral elbow pain
- Identify a progression of exercises and activities driven by evaluation findings
- Describe a test-retest assessment-treatment philosophy
- Outline a systematic approach to diagnose and treat different causes of elbow pain
- Describe basic principles of yoga practice and how to employ in the hand therapy setting
- Correlate stages of patient engagement with appropriate yoga techniques
- Practice yoga techniques utilizing the “counterpose” concept to address common upper extremity challenges and postural imbalances
- Explain evidence for the application of yoga in rehabilitation
- Apply yoga principles and techniques to case examples
Friday, May 5, 8:00am-5:30pm CT
7:00AM
In-Person Registration Opens
7:40AM
Exhibits Open
8:00AM
Welcome & Introduction
Ann Porretto-Loehrke, PT, DPT, CHT, COMT, CMTPT, Hand to Shoulder Center of Wisconsin, Appleton, WI
8:15AM
Manual Edema Mobilization (MEM) for the Upper Extremity (UE)
Vivian Dim, OT Reg. (Ont); MClSc (WH), CHT, CDT, IIWCC, Arm More Therapy, Niagara, Ontario
Manual Edema Mobilization (MEM) is a recognized best practice treatment for individuals with persistent orthopaedic edema; for the purpose of this presentation its application to the upper extremity will be the focus. The presentation will offer an overview of why edema presents and persists and the immediate and proximal complications that can arise. Stimulation of the lymphatic system through application of MEM’s multifaceted approached will be reviewed.
9:00AM
Surgical Management for Carpometacarpal (CMC) Joint Osteoarthritis (OA) Using the Tightrope and Internal Brace
Gregory Kolovich, MD, MPH, Optim Orthopedics, Savannah GA
9:45AM
Cadaveric Dissection
Gregory Kolovich, MD, MPH, Optim Orthopedics, Savannah GA
10:30AM
Break
11:00AM
Post-Operative Management Following Thumb CMC Arthroplasty
Bob Phillips, OTR, CHT, COMT, Optim Orthopedics, Savannah GA
11:45AM
Conservative Management of Thumb CMC OA Using a Manual Therapy Approach
Ann Porretto-Loehrke, PT, DPT, CHT, COMT, CMTPT, Hand to Shoulder Center of Wisconsin, Appleton, WI
12:30PM
Lunch
1:30PM
Elastic Taping Techniques for the Upper Extremity
Teresa Casagranda, PT, DPT, CHT, CKTI, GTS, Door County Medical Center, Sturgeon Bay, WI
2:15PM
Surgical Management of Rotator Cuff Tears
David Ross, MD, Orthopedic Institute of WI, Milwaukee, WI
3:00PM
Break
3:30PM
Post-Operative Management of Rotator Cuff Tears
Kristiana Maggard, MS, OTR, Hand to Shoulder Specialists of WI, Milwaukee, WI
4:15PM
If Not Me, Who? Professional Advocacy Call to Action
Marsha Lawrence, PT, DPT, CHT, APTA Hand and Upper Extremity, McLouth, KS
5:00PM
Panel Discussion
5:30PM
Adjourn
6:30PM
Exhibits Close
Friday Learning Outcomes
- Describe the workings of the lymphatic system and how it can be stimulated through incorporation of MEM
- Explain the application of some or all MEM strategies
- Recognize edema and how to assess the immediate affected site
- Explain proximal congestion in the upper extremity
- Explain the etiology of CMC arthritis and the history of nonsurgical and surgical treatments
- Describe classifications of CMC arthritis and current treatments
- Develop an algorithm for treatment based on clinical/radiographic findings and patient activity/expectations
- Explain the surgical approach and relevant anatomy for CMC tightrope and internal brace techniques
- Describe the benefits, risks and complications of CMC tightrope and internal brace techniques and help relay them to patients
- Identify skin landmarks for clinical exam, injection, and surgical incision
- Outline clinical examination techniques of CMC arthritis
- Describe the biomechanics and deforming forces on CMC joint
- Describe detailed CMC and adjacent anatomy
- Summarize detailed surgical anatomy: from skin incision to trapeziectomy to setting the tension for suspensionplasty to closure
- Identify the proper orthosis for post-operative care
- Describe clinical pearls to address ROM, strength, and functional use deficits
- Explain dynamic stability and its role in rehabilitation
- Distinguish between when it is appropriate to perform joint mobilization techniques directly to the thumb CMC joint and when it could be harmful
- Explain how limitations in the radial column can contribute to issues at the thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint
- Critique positions that are mechanically harmful to thumb CMC osteoarthritis and explain how to modify them to promote thumb CMC joint stability
- Describe the origin of therapeutic elastic tape
- Compare and contrast the differences between elastic taping and other conventional taping methods to help determine appropriate therapeutic intervention
- Identify mechanisms of action of elastic tape on tissue
- Explain current studies and research and related findings to provide informed use of elastic taping interventions for their patients
- Describe precautions and contraindications of elastic taping to include appropriate selection of applications for general and specific populations
- Define the surgical treatment of rotator cuff tears
- Describe therapy approaches to different treatments that are performed
- Explain rotator cuff surgical procedures experienced by patients
- Describe current trends in the management of the post operative rotator cuff repairs
- Identify a variety of practical interventions for post operative rotator cuff repairs
- Outline how to strengthen your skills with treatment techniques designed for a range of patients with post operative rotator cuff repairs
- Locate their federal and state legislators’ contact information
- Identify professional organizations’ Federal Legislative Action Centers
- Access email and social media templates for guiding legislative communication
- Identify pending legislation impacting hand rehabilitation services
- Identify how to contact legislators and ask for their support of hand therapy legislation
- Identify federal regulations limiting patient access to hand therapy services
- Recognize professional organizations’ efforts to protect therapists’ eligibility to fabricate, dispense and be paid for orthoses for their patients
Saturday Workshops
May 6, 8:00am-1:30pm CT
Elastic Taping Techniques for the Upper Extremity (In-Person)
Read More
At the end of the presentation, participants will:
- Describe mechanism of elastic taping as instructed through literature review and video study presentation
- Describe elastic tape handling from application to removal
- Identify indications/contraindications and precautions relative to therapeutic elastic taping
- Verbalize and demonstrate understanding of assessment techniques to determine appropriate taping application
- Demonstrate understanding of elastic taping applications to treat edema, pain, improve proprioception, optimize tissue mobility, promote healing, and support function
Manual Edema Mobilization (MEM) Techniques for the UE (In-Person)
Vivian Dim, HBSc, BHSc (OT), MClSc, CHT, LLCC, IIWCC
Read More
At the end of the presentation, participants will:
- Explain the lymphatic system and how to positively stimulate it using some aspects of MEM
- Practice pump point stimulation, movement strategies, and be able to confidently apply multilayer compression wraps
Documentation, Coding, and Compliance for Hand Rehabilitation Services (In-Person or Online)
Marsha Lawrence, PT, DPT, CHT
Read More
Providers are facing a difficult battle negotiating continuously shifting payer policies and coverage. This course will review the history and present landscape of healthcare payment in the US and offer strategies for negotiating with commercial payers, UMR’s and TPA’s to limit payment reductions and administrative burden. It will outline compliant and defensive documentation and accurate coding for procedures and orthoses for federal, commercial, and combined programs, and review success stories. Opportunities on the federal and state levels to change regulations limiting payment and access to care will be presented.
Outcomes: At the end of the presentation, participants will:
- Recognize categories of payers and how they are regulated
- Describe the influence of the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule and CMS’ regulations on reimbursement from all payers
- Identify current procedural codes, modifiers, and episode limits applicable to hand rehabilitation and required supporting documentation
- Identify how to correctly bill for OTA and PTA services
- Identify HCPCS codes (orthosis codes) and modifiers and required supporting documentation applicable to orthosis billing
- Identify the orthosis management codes and apply them according to regulatory standards
- Outline and adopt the regulations/documentation required for successful billing for orthosis repairs and replacements
- Describe the opportunities and challenges of participating in CMS’ Quality Reporting Program
- Recognize the impact of the sequestration reduction and MPPR on payment
- Recognize opportunities for practice advocacy on the local and federal level
Orthotic Fabrication Workshop (In-Person)
Bob Phillips, OTR, CHT, COMT
Read More
At the end of the presentation, participants will:
- Identify principles of orthosis fabrication and proper positioning required for functional use
- Fabricate a WHFO (thumb spica)
- Fabricate a low-profile radial nerve palsy orthosis to promote immediate light functional use
- Fabricate a hinged elbow orthosis with the forearm in neutral
Joint Mobilization for the Elbow and Forearm (In-Person)
Ann Porretto-Loehrke, PT, DPT, CHT, COMT, CMTPT
Read More
At the end of the presentation, participants will:
- Identify key anatomic structures at the humeroulnar joint (HUJ) and proximal radioulnar joint (PRUJ) to determine the direction of traction and/or glide as a precursor to initiating joint mobilization
- Implement traction techniques for the HUJ to maximize elbow flexion as needed to perform ADLs such as eating and grooming
- Perform traction techniques for the HUJ, medial and lateral gliding to enhance elbow extension to promote increased ability to perform dressing and tying shoes
- Demonstrate joint mobilization techniques for the PRUJ to address limitations with forearm pronation and supination
- Explain the home program patients can perform to maximize forearm motion with neuromuscular re-education at the PRUJ
Pricing & CEUs
Prices are the same for In-person and Live Online registrations.
*CEUs are based on participant’s actual class hours. Agenda is subject to change based on instructor preference and time available. Speakers and programs subject to change. Need a paper registration to mail or fax a check? Download this PDF & Fax or Mail it to us!
All Three Days
1.7 CEUs (17 hours)
$670
Thursday & Friday
1.2 CEUs (12 hours)
$455
Friday & Saturday
1.25 CEUs (12.5 hours)
$465
Thursday & Saturday
.95 CEUs (9.5 hours)
$420
Thursday Only
.45 CEUs (4.5 hours)
$205
Friday Only
.75 CEUs (7.5 hours)
$250
Saturday Only
.5 CEUs (5 hours)
$215

View Event Content, Enter Giveaways & Network with our Event Platform on a Mobile Device
F.A.Q.
Is there a Group Discount?
Can I pay by mail, phone or fax?
Courses require full payment at the time of registration. You can choose from a variety of payment methods. Payment can be made with a check, company purchase order (P.O.), money order or credit card. Checks should be made payable to “University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.” Cash is accepted through in-person registration only, please email ahead (chsout@uwm.edu) if this is what you plan on doing. Due to COVID we have limited seats, so if you plan on registering in-person with cash we must reserve your seat in advance.
If you register by mail or fax, all registrations will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. You must rank your choices of Saturday workshops. While we will make every effort to accommodate first choices, please note that workshops have limited capacities.
Download and Print this PDF Registration Form
Mail orders to:
UWM School of Continuing Education
161 West Wisconsin Avenue, Ste. 6000
Milwaukee, WI 53203
Fax orders to: 414-227-3146
Phone: 414-227-3200
Special Needs Requests
How do I receive CEU Certificates for attending WI Hand?
What is your Cancelation and Refund Policy?
For cancellations made by a participant at least 14 days before the start of the program, a refund will be issued minus a $25.00 processing fee. For cancellations made within 14 days of the program, a certificate worth the value of the program (minus a $25.00 processing fee) will be issued and is valid for one year from the date of the original course.
The program you are registering for is scheduled to be delivered in-person and live online. UWM has devised a decision-making strategy that considers many factors to protect the health and safety of our participants. Decisions could involve a range of actions including converting in-person programs to virtual instruction. If university decisions impact this program, you will receive communication from the Outreach Office. If the delivery method is changed and it no longer fits your preference and you would prefer to cancel your enrollment please contact the Outreach office.
What if I didn't receive a confirmation email?
What are the COVID precautions taken for the in-person event?
What if I come into contact with someone who tests positive for COVID, test positive for COVID myself, or feel sick and cannot attend?
How do I purchase a Hotel room for the event?
Lodging rooms can be reserved at a discounted rate for single and double rooms. You can book your room at the discounted rate online here.
The Special group block rate is $103 per night. Participants have until Apr 4, 2023 to book at the special rate.
- Book online for discounted rate at Crowne Plaza use this custom link.
- Each individual guest must make their own reservations by calling (414) 764-5300 by April 11, 2022. You must identify yourself as a member of University of Wisconsin Milwaukee.
Click here for details about Crowne Plaza & IHG’s “Way of Clean.”
For those attending fully online, how will we participate? What are the Tech or Internet Requirements?
You will receive access to the same event platform that in-person attendees have access to. You will use the email address you registered with to access the platform. You can use your computer for the web browser version or the device app. You will be able to view the lectures in real time and can participate in the chat with all attendees in the platform, and view exhibitor information. Internet access (10 Mbps upload and download speed) & using Chrome Web Browser or the Webex Device App (for iOS or Android) is recommended if you are viewing LIVE online. *Internet Explorer is NOT supported*
Why should I register early?
Early registration is encouraged to guarantee space. Priority Workshop Registration is avalible to those registering before March 4, 2023. Participants are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Enrollment is confirmed upon receipt of registration and payment or agency guarantee of payment. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information presented on this website. However, all course information, instructor designations, locations and fees described in this catalog are subject to change without notice. See our website & emails for updates. Lunch is included only where indicated. If you have any questions, please call 414-227-3123 or email chsout@uwm.edu.
What if I have more questions?
Exhibitors
Wisconsin Hand Experience℠ 2023
Contact chsout@uwm.edu to learn more about becoming an exhibitor. Find information about exhibitor booth options in this PDF.







General Information
Every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of this information. We reserve the right to change the program without notice. Contact us at chsout@uwm.edu or (414) 227-3123 if you have questions. For cancellations made by a participant at least 14 days before the start of the program, a refund will be issued minus a $25.00 processing fee. For cancellations made within 14 days of the program, a certificate worth the value of the program (minus a $25.00 processing fee) will be issued and is valid for one year from the date of the original course. The program you are registering for is scheduled to be delivered in-person and live online. UWM has devised a decision-making strategy that considers many factors to protect the health and safety of our participants. Decisions could involve a range of actions including converting in-person programs to virtual instruction. If university decisions impact this program, you will receive communication from the Outreach Office. If the delivery method is changed and it no longer fits your preference and you would prefer to cancel your enrollment please contact the Outreach office. Early registration is encouraged to guarantee space. Participants are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Enrollment is confirmed upon receipt of registration and payment. Lunch and all breaks are included in course fees.
Please advise us at the time of registration if you have special needs. Requests will be kept confidential. Please submit special needs requests four weeks prior to the program date.
Financial Disclosure:
Presenters at the Wisconsin Hand Experience Conference have signed agreements stating that they will not promote or endorse any specific products, services, or equipment during their presentations. They have also confirmed that they do not have any financial relationships with any companies or organizations that manufacture, distribute, or sell therapy-related products or services. Conference presenters do receive reimbursement for travel and an honorarium to speak at the conference. We are dedicated to ensuring transparency and maintaining the integrity of the educational content provided at our conference, if you have any questions or concerns, please email chsout@uwm.edu.
*CEUs are based on participant’s actual class hours. Agenda is subject to change based on instructor preference and time available. Speakers and programs subject to change.
Contact Us: 414-227-3123 | chsout@uwm.edu
Education Level
Level of Instruction:
Intermediate
Target Audience:
OTs, OTAs, PTs, PTAs, ATs, and Hand Therapists
Relevance to Occupational Therapy:
Category 1: Occupational Therapy Service Delivery
American Occupational Therapy Association
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, College of Health Sciences is an AOTA approved provider of Continuing Education. Provider #: 4001. AOTA does not endorse specific course content, products, or clinical procedures. AOTA Course Approval #0000006933.


Approval #0000006933