PEDIATRIC THERATOOLS
Custom Orthotic Fabrication for Infants and Children
One size doesn't fit all—master the art of custom splinting for every patient, in any setting!
Do You Struggle With Splinting?
You’re Not Alone...
Are you a pediatric therapist in the NICU, Acute Care, Early Intervention, or Out-Patient settings who’s feeling lost when it comes to splinting?
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Not sure where to start or what materials you need? You're eager to help your patients, but the thought of splinting leaves you second-guessing.
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Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of making a splint? The process feels daunting, like there’s a mountain to climb and you’re stuck at the bottom.
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Tried splinting before, but it didn’t go as planned? You gave it your best shot, but the outcome left you frustrated and disappointed.
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Tired of the same old routine and craving a specialized skill to set you apart? You’re passionate about your work, but you want to stand out, to be that go-to expert with a unique skill set.
- Worried about how custom splinting would be received in the NICU or Acute Care? The delicate nature of your patients makes you question whether custom splinting will be well received.
- Unsure if custom splinting is even possible in Early Intervention? The challenges of working in the home environment makes you wonder if splinting is even an option.
- . . .If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. It’s time to take control, overcome the challenges, and become the expert your patients need.
The Case for Custom Splints in Pediatric Care: Fit, Function, and Fun
1
Proper Fit
Off-the-shelf splints often don't fit children's unique anatomy, leading to discomfort and reduced effectiveness.
2
Limited Mobility and Skin Irritation
Generic splints can restrict movement and cause skin issues, hindering development. Custom waterproof splints offer better protection and comfort.
3
Compliance Issues
Children are less likely to wear uncomfortable or ill-fitting splints, reducing the therapeutic benefits.
4
Growth Considerations
As children grow, their splints need frequent adjustments or replacements, which is more easily managed with custom solutions.
5
Specific Needs
Children with complex or unique conditions may not find suitable solutions with standard splints, requiring custom designs to meet their therapeutic needs.
6
Aesthetics and Appeal
Custom splints can be designed with appealing colors and designs, making them more acceptable and less stigmatizing for children, encouraging better adherence to therapy.
Fabricating Function: Crafting Comfort
- Boost Job Satisfaction and Fulfillment: Gain problem-solving skills that lead to immediate patient improvements and set yourself apart as a highly specialized, sought-after therapist.
- Master Essential Materials: Learn the specific materials needed to start your splinting journey and gain the confidence to splint your patients immediately.
- Fabricate Splints Successfully: Understand the diagnoses that benefit from splints, and gain hands-on experience fabricating five splints during the course.
- Confidently Document and Bill: Acquire the knowledge to document, bill, and write splinting-specific goals, and explain splinting rationale to families.
- Integrate Splinting in Therapy: Learn how to use splinting during exercises and functional tasks to promote successful engagement in meaningful occupations.
FAQs
What supplies are needed for taking this course?
Orficast (2in)
Colors NS Orfit 1/12in microperforated
Velcro
Strapping
Scissors
Doll with open hand
Microwave and Microwave Safe Bowl or Stovetop with pot/pan and access to water
Food Thermometer (Optional)
Kinesotape (Optional)
Are supplies provided for this course?
Yes. When you choose "enroll now," there are 2 registration options depending on your supply need. All supplies will be mailed directly to you.
Is this course approved for continuing education?
This course is approved for 1.4 AOTA CEUs or 14.0 contact hours.Contact admin@pediatrictheratools.com with any questions concerning contact hour approval.
Are there any prerequisites required for taking this course?
No. This is an introductory level course; Skills learned in this course must fit within the therapist's discipline-specific scope of practice and state regulation guidelines. Therapists are required to follow physician orders and protocols.
How is this course taught?
This course is taught in both LIVE and VIRTUAL formats and uses discussion, PowerPoint, video, and demonstration/return-demonstration teaching methods.
For the Interactive Distance Learning (virtual) format, you will receive a zoom link by email approximately one week prior to the course date.
For the Interactive Distance Learning (virtual) format, you will receive a zoom link by email approximately one week prior to the course date.
What is required for completion of this course?
You must attend both days in their entirety, meet all learning objectives, and pass a test 80% accuracy. (For the distance learning option, you must have a computer with video capabilities.)
What are the times for this course?
Day 1: 8:00am - 4:30pm EST - (Lunch is on your own from 12 pm - 1:00 pm)
Day 2: 8:30am - 4:00pm EST
Day 2: 8:30am - 4:00pm EST
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation Policy - Provider: The CE administrator/trainer shall make every attempt to contact registered learners via email and/or phone to notify of course cancellation. If the course is canceled due to the trainer, the following will be offered to the learner: full refund to learner OR apply registration fee to future course.
Cancellation Policy - Learner: For a full refund of course registration fees, the learner shall provide written request to cancel registration no less than 30 days prior to course date. For cancellations less than 30 days in advance, a 50% refund will be provided OR the learner can choose to utilize funds toward a future course date.
All refunds to be processed through the Teachable secure payment site.
Cancellation Policy - Learner: For a full refund of course registration fees, the learner shall provide written request to cancel registration no less than 30 days prior to course date. For cancellations less than 30 days in advance, a 50% refund will be provided OR the learner can choose to utilize funds toward a future course date.
All refunds to be processed through the Teachable secure payment site.
How can I make special needs/accessibility requests?
If you need special accommodations, please email admin@pediatrictheratools.com.
How can I contact the provider with any questions or complaints?
You can email the provider at admin@pediatrictheratools.com
**Any complaint must be submitted within 3 months of course completion.
**Any complaint must be submitted within 3 months of course completion.
When is the deadline for course registration?
The deadline for course enrollment is two weeks prior to the course start date.
Courses have limited seats in order to provide individual attention to each student, and registration will close once capacity has been reached.
You are encouraged to register early.
Courses have limited seats in order to provide individual attention to each student, and registration will close once capacity has been reached.
You are encouraged to register early.
What Students Say...
Learning how to splint with Rachael was such a great experience. Not only does she have the clinical expertise and knowledge, but she also knows how to teach you in a way that makes you feel empowered and competent in what you’re learning. After training under Rachael, I felt confident to take what I learned in splinting and implement it in my practice. 10/10 would recommend taking this course.."
-Morgan R, MSOT, OTR/L (Florida)
"In my 22 years of practice, I've never encountered anyone as gifted as Rachael when it comes to making splints. Her talent for crafting custom splints, even for the tiniest of hands or feet, is nothing short of a masterpiece. But what truly sets her apart is her ability to share this expertise—guiding and empowering colleagues to become splint-making pros themselves. We are truly blessed to have her a part of the Pediatric Theratools team.
-Laura B. Owner, CE Admin(Kentucky)
Rachael is an incredible instructor, whether in splinting related instruction or general OT guidance. She is patient and open to questions and new ideas. She is a leader in her field, and has been an asset to me in my splinting training over the many years we have worked together. Rachael is knowledgeable in many areas, especially splinting and casting for all ages and diagnoses and has helped me develop my skills in these areas as well! I am thankful to know and learn from Rachael as she strives to be the best, and is a trailblazer for splinting in the NICU! !"
-Shelby S. MS, OTR/L(Kentucky)
Course Objectives
- Summarize the embryology of limb development.
- Identify basic concepts of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.
- Identify and discuss injury locations and common subsequent motor, sensory, and functional impairments.
- Paraphrase orthotic types and the rationale for the use of each.
- Describe precautions and contraindications of custom orthotics.
- Explain and discuss common materials needed to fabricate custom orthotics.
- Discuss successful options for custom orthotic fabrication in any setting.
- Demonstrate the fabrication of five orthoses (wrist cock-up, intrinsic plus, thumb spica, ankle-foot orthosis, and one of your choice).
- Describe how to prevent adverse reactions to orthotic wear.
- Explain orthotic-specific coaching for caregivers and children.
- Summarize billing, documentation, and goals for custom orthotic fabrication.
- Recall information related to all focus areas of the Custom Orthotic Fabrication for Infants and Children course.
Rachael Petrie MS, OTR/L, CIMC
Rachael is an experienced occupational therapist with over a decade in outpatient, NICU, and acute care settings. She has published research and presented nationally, with advanced training and mentoring expertise in custom splinting.
Rachael has experience with splinting complex upper extremity conditions. She fabricates custom splints in the neonatal intensive care unit with great success in functional outcomes.
She has also worked in an outpatient pediatrics clinic, utilizing prefabricated and custom DIY positioners for young patients. Rachael’s diverse experience makes her a versatile mentor. Her commitment to her field and ability to teach others truly set her apart as an instructor.
Disclosures-Financial: Rachael is employed by Pediatric Theratools and receives an honorarium for this course. Non-Financial: There are no non-financial disclosures to report.
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