Continuing education is crucial for physical therapists aiming to stay current with the latest advancements and maintain their licensure.
The best-continuing education courses in physical therapy enhance your expertise and ensure you provide the highest quality care to your patients.
This guide will help you identify top-rated courses, understand their benefits, and make informed decisions to help you earn a Physical Therapy Running Certification.
Criteria for Choosing the Best Physical Therapy Continuing Education Courses
1 – Accreditation and Certification
Accreditation ensures the course meets established standards of quality and effectiveness.
Recognized certifying bodies, such as the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) or the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), provide assurance that the education received is credible and valued within the profession.
2 – Course Content and Curriculum
High-quality courses cover key topics and skills necessary for advanced practice. These typically include:
- Advanced manual therapy techniques
- Sports injury management
- Neurological rehabilitation
- Geriatric physical therapy
- Orthopedic physical therapy
Specialized areas, such as sports physical therapy or geriatrics, allow practitioners to deepen their expertise in specific fields, enhancing their ability to address diverse patient needs effectively.
3 – Mode of Delivery
Courses can be delivered online, in-person, or through a hybrid model.
- Online courses offer flexibility, allowing you to learn at your own pace and from any location.
- In-person courses provide hands-on experience and direct interaction with instructors and peers.
- Hybrid models combine the best of both worlds, offering online theoretical learning with in-person practical sessions.
Each mode has its benefits, and the choice depends on your learning style and schedule.
4 – Instructor Qualifications
Experienced and qualified instructors bring real-world experience and expertise to the course, enriching the learning experience.
To verify instructor credentials, look for:
- Professional background and experience
- Certifications and degrees
- Published work or contributions to the field
Reputable courses usually provide detailed instructor profiles, allowing you to assess their qualifications before enrolling.
5 – Cost and Financial Considerations
The cost of continuing education courses can vary significantly. For in-person sessions, it’s essential to consider both the course fees and any additional costs, such as materials or travel expenses.
Financial assistance options include:
- Scholarships
- Grants
- Employer sponsorship
Investigating these options can make continuing education more affordable, enabling you to pursue advanced learning without undue financial strain.
Highlighting the Best Physical Therapy Continuing Education Courses
1 – Certified Running Gait Analyst by RunDNA
Course Description and Objectives
RunDNA’s gait analysis courses include Level 1 Certified Running Gait Analyst and Level 2 Certified Running Gait Analyst. These comprehensive programs start with foundational techniques in running gait analysis and progress to advanced biomechanical assessments and interventions.
The courses cover essential techniques for assessing running form, identifying common gait issues, and implementing corrective strategies.
Target Audience and Career Benefits
This program is ideal for physical therapists, coaches, and trainers specializing in running gait analysis.
Completing both levels of certification provides a robust understanding of gait mechanics and advanced correction techniques.
Graduates can expect enhanced diagnostic skills, improved patient outcomes, and opportunities for career advancement in specialized running clinics or sports teams.
Continuing Education Units
Level 1 Gait Analyst is approved for 5 CEUs in most states. More information can be found in the FAQ here.
Level 2 Gait Analyst is approved for 7 CEUs in most states. More information can be found in the FAQ here.
2 – Running Mechanics and Gait Analysis by Human Kinetics
Course Overview and Benefits
The Running Mechanics and Gait Analysis course offered by Human Kinetics includes an online component and a print book. The course dives into running biomechanics, covering assessment techniques and corrective strategies for improving running form.
Key Learning Outcomes
Participants will thoroughly understand running mechanics and how to apply this knowledge to prevent injuries and enhance performance. The course is designed for physical therapists, coaches, and fitness professionals.
Continuing Education Units
Credits for this course vary by organization and are all listed on the product page.
3 – Course 1.0 Program by The Running Clinic
Course Overview and Benefits
The Running Clinic’s Course 1.0 Program focuses on running biomechanics, including gait analysis and injury prevention. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, making it suitable for physical therapists and sports medicine professionals.
Notable Instructors and Success Stories
Taught by experts in the field, this program includes success stories from professional athletes and detailed case studies.
Graduates report improved skills in diagnosing and treating running-related injuries.
4 – Understanding Running Biomechanics by Evidence In Motion (EIM)
Key Learning Outcomes
This program provides in-depth training on running biomechanics and gait analysis. Participants learn to assess running form and develop customized treatment plans for runners.
Course Features and Structure
The course offers a blend of online learning and hands-on workshops, ensuring participants can apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings. It is known for its comprehensive curriculum and experienced instructors.
5 – Live Courses by Institute of Clinical Excellence
Course Features and Structure
The Institute of Clinical Excellence offers a range of live courses that cover various aspects of physical therapy, including running mechanics and gait analysis. These courses emphasize hands-on learning and practical applications, allowing participants to directly implement their new skills in clinical settings.
Success Rates and Career Advancements
Graduates of these live courses report significant improvements in their clinical skills and patient outcomes.
Many participants have advanced their careers by specializing in running mechanics and gait analysis, gaining recognition in their fields and enhancing their professional opportunities.
Continuing Education Units
CEUs for their courses vary based on the selected program.
Elevate Your Expertise with the Best Continuing Education Courses
Continuing education is critical to professional growth and excellence in physical therapy.
By choosing the best-continuing education courses in physical therapy, you can enhance your skills, stay updated with the latest advancements, and provide superior patient care.
Whether you opt for the comprehensive Certified Running Gait Analyst program by RunDNA or explore other top-tier options, investing in your education is a step toward a more prosperous and fulfilling career.
