Central and Autonomic Nervous SystemsCentral and Autonomic Nervous Systems
- Teacher:
- Rating:
- 6 months of access
- Certificate included
- Downloadable Handout
- Digital Learning at Your Own Pace
CHF 235
Course Information:
- Study time:
- Access:
360–500 minutes
6 months
Course Overview
How does the central nervous system control movement, behavior, and recovery after an injury? This comprehensive introductory course covers the structure, physiology, and pathophysiology of the central and autonomic nervous systems.
Through practical examples and evidence-based explanations, you will learn how the brain and nervous system function, how neurological damage affects those affected and their families, and why this understanding is central to effective rehabilitation.
One area of focus is neuroplasticity and its role in recovery from brain injuries. You’ll learn how this knowledge enables professionals to tailor treatment strategies, support functional recovery, and improve treatment outcomes in everyday clinical practice.
Practical Application
- Understanding Neurological Function and Behavior
- Rehabilitation Following Brain Lesions
- Application of Neuroplasticity Principles in Therapy
- Clinical Decision-Making in Neurorehabilitation
- Tailoring Treatment to Individual Patient Needs
- Improving Support for Patients and Their Families
What You'll Learn Here
- Understanding the Structure and Function of the Central Nervous System
- Learn about the structure and role of the autonomic nervous system
- Learning how brain lesions affect movement, behavior, and function
- Applying the Principles of Neuroplasticity in Rehabilitation
- Understanding the Interplay Between Motivation, Activity, and Rest
- Translating Neuroscience into Practical Clinical Decision-Making
Part 1: Central Nervous System
- Introduction to the Topic
- Brain Cells and the Connectome
- Brain Regions
- Meninges and Cranial Nerves
- Ventricles and cerebrospinal fluid system
- Spinal Cord and Nervous System
- Knowledge Check
Part 2: Autonomic Nervous System
- Introduction to the Topic
- Sympathetic nervous system
- Parasympathetic nervous system
- Interaction Between the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous Systems
- Enteric nervous system
- Knowledge Check
Part 3: Neuroplasticity
- Introduction to the Topic
- Function and Neuroplasticity
- Neuroplasticity Following Brain Lesions
- Planning, Execution, and Monitoring
- Motivation and Activity
- Right and left hemispheres
Part 4: Final Exam
- Final Test
- Physical therapists
- Occupational therapists
- Speech-language pathologists
- Sports Therapists
- Movement scientists
- Doctors
- Special Education Teachers
- Nurses
- Anyone who wants to better understand the central nervous system, neurological disorders, and neuroplasticity

Nora Kern —
, MSc PT, OMPT
She specializes in neurorehabilitation, neurodynamic assessment, and clinical reasoning. Her teaching helps professionals identify the structural causes of movement limitations and adapt neurodynamic tests for people with brain injuries and for children. She emphasizes evidence-based progress monitoring to improve function, participation, and quality of life.

Dr. Petra Marsico, PT
She specializes in pediatric neurorehabilitation and movement analysis. Using neurodynamic tests, she helps professionals better understand the movement patterns of children and adolescents with neurological and musculoskeletal impairments, leading to more precise treatment and greater functional independence.
This course qualifies participants for continuing education credits from recognized professional associations.
- German Association of Occupational Therapy (DVE): 10 points
- Physio Germany: 10 points
- Umbrella Organization for Advanced Medical, Therapeutic, and Diagnostic Health Professions (MTD): 10 instructional units
- Swiss Association of Occupational Therapists (EVS): 8 points
- Physioswiss: 8 points
Certificate
Upon completion, you will automatically receive a personalized certificate as proof of your participation in the training.
Our certificate of participation can also be submitted to professional associations as part of continuing education applications.
Comments
Peer Review
Christine Zehr
Pediatric Physical Therapist, CAS in Bobath Baby Developmental Neurological Therapy, Lucerne Children's Hospital
"This course on the central nervous system is exceptional! The many practical examples make it easy to apply what you've learned to your own work. All three parts of the course are excellently designed, varied, and keep you engaged throughout the learning process."
Ready to build a solid foundation in neuroscience?
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Scalable Continuing Education for Therapy and Rehabilitation Departments
Tried and tested by therapists, doctors, and rehabilitation specialists.
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