Various themes can be offered according to the needs of the institution, the therapists and the patient population.

1. Post-Stroke Model of Physical, Biopsychosocial Deconditioning Syndrome (PBDS)
Over 25 years of practice, the authors (M.H. Gerber (physiotherapist) and Ursula K. Imhof (medical doctor specialized in rehabilitation and psychosomatic disorders) have observed that persons who have suffered stroke, head-injury or other acquired CNS lesion show a rapid decrease of cardiovascular, respiratory and muscular endurance. Although most of the symptoms are well known, a model presenting the physical and biopsychosocial deconditioning syndrome and appropriate therapeutic intervention has not yet been described. The post-stroke PBDS model provides an original framework describing the primary, secondary and tertiary symptoms and their specific therapeutic interventions.

The PBDS model follows the principles of the ICF (WHO 2001) , emphasizing the level of participation. It comprises a decrease in general physical condition with consequences for work, family, sexual and social life, leisure and sports, generated by increase of neuromuscular and psychological disorders, fatigue and pain as well as by a decrease of functional independence, quality of life and self-esteem.

The model guides the therapist through the different stages of recovery, but focuses on preventing misuse and addressing weakness, cardiovascular and respiratory capacity, selective and global muscular endurance and biopsychosocial implications. These treatment strategies are used for individuals as well as groups. Functional re-education activities include the use of work-out machines, hydrotherapy and adapted games and sports.

This workshop is presented by the two authors over a period of 2 days or more.

2. Hemiparesis (severe – moderate – mild)
Focus on specific treatments strategies for : 

• Aging and living with a stroke:  Orthopedic – Neurological aspects
   
• Re-education of the upper limb and hand
   
• Integration of CIMT (Constraint-induced movement therapy) and BBR (Bobath-based rehabilitation) ; Induced therapy - BBR
   
• Gait and endurance training
   
• ADL focusing on perceptual stimulation and independence
   
• Cross-country skiing and activities in thermal water (Aqua-jogging /Aqua-gym)
   
• Nordic walking , activities in thermal water (Aqua-jogging / Aqua-gym)
   
• Group therapy : general practice and specific goals

3. Ataxia
Focus on specific treatments strategies for :

• Ataxia and gait:  Orthopedic – Neurological aspects
   
• Deconditioning syndrome (PBDS) and treatment strategies

4. Parkinson Disease

• Group therapy : general practice and specific goals
   
• Gait and fall-prevention

5. Others

• Any form of workshops or short courses can be proposed as in-service training for hospitals, rehabilitation centre teams or private clinics.