Empowering Movement: Karen Kangas on Transformative Therapies for Children with Complex Disabilities

Karen Kangas

Occupational Therapist

Adjunct University Faculty

Seating, Positioning, and Mobility Specialist

Clinical, Educator

Assistive Technology Specialist

Karen Kangas is an inspirational occupational therapist specializing in seating and assistive technology for children with complex disabilities. She is particularly well known for her work in addressing movement disorders like dystonia and dystonic cerebral palsy through immersive, meaningful experiences. Karen's expertise in Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT) and sensory integration enables her to craft therapy that emphasizes intention, participation, and engagement, encouraging children to explore new levels of mobility and independence.

In this interview, we cover seating and positioning, standing, walking and appropriate equipment use, developing clinical skills, the magic of the barrier vest, and understanding movement patterns.

From philosophical musings to practical strategies you can apply right now, this interview is jam-packed with good stuff!

Enjoy!

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For handy links to things we've discussed in this interview,  scroll down to the Resources Section at the bottom of the page.

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Podcast Highlights

• 00:04:00 minutes - Innovative Approaches in Pediatrics

• 00:22:53 minutes - The Importance of Handling Skills in Therapy

• 00:26:38 minutes -  Debate on Equipment and Techniques for Children with Disabilities

• 00:45:06 minutes - Challenges with Seat Belts and Pelvic Stability

• 00:47:05 minutes - Techniques to Assess Pelvic Weight Bearing

• 00:51:35 minutes -  The Role of Headrests and Restraints in Seating

• 00:57:15 minutes -  The Barrier Vest: A Solution for Dystonia

• 01:10:28 minutes - Distinguishing Between Dystonia and Spastic Quadriplegia

• 01:12:12 minutes - Patterns of Movement in Dystonic CP

• 01:20:29 minutes - Practical Tips for New Pediatric Therapists

• 01:23:12 minutes -Beautiful mantras for Pediatric Therapists

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Biography

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Karen Kangas is a leading occupational therapist known for her expertise in seating, positioning, and mobility solutions for children with complex physical disabilities. She specializes in working with movement disorders, including dystonia and dystonic cerebral palsy, emphasizing therapeutic engagement through Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT) and sensory integration. Karen’s approach is rooted in creating immersive experiences that foster participation and intentional movement, enabling children to achieve greater mobility and independence. She is a sought-after educator and speaker, sharing insights with therapists, families, and caregivers about enhancing function and quality of life.

Karen Kangas has made significant contributions to the field of occupational therapy, focusing on the complex needs of children with disabilities. Her work encompasses:

• Therapeutic Strategies: She employs Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT) and sensory integration techniques to enhance children's functional abilities and engagement.

• Workshops and Training: Karen frequently leads workshops for professionals in therapy, sharing her knowledge on best practices for seating and positioning.

• Advocacy and Education: She is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of tailored therapeutic interventions and helping families and caregivers understand how to support their children's mobility and independence.

  
  

Links

• Facebook page

• Linkedin

Barrier Vest Instructions

Worth Reading

Articles and research on Dystonia and Dyskinetic CP

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  Article on dystonia in cerebral palsy

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  Article on Dystonia

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  Article on Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy

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  Research article on dyskinetic cerebral palsy presntation and management in cerebral palsy

Videos

Learn more about Karen's innovative approaches to treating children with complex disabilities.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vUd1w2lbcY

3-Part Series on Seating and Mobility as it relates to Alternative and Augmentative Communication in Childhood Disability.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gx1z2Cpn4NU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UhobszRb0g

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UX2j8X8rcEI