Too Pooped to Play: Assessment and Treatment of Functional Constipation in the Therapeutic Setting

Constipation is a common but often overlooked condition that significantly impacts a child's daily function, participation, and development. This course explores the critical role occupational and physical therapists play in the comprehensive evaluation and treatment of pediatric constipation. Attendees will learn how to assess underlying musculoskeletal, sensory, behavioral, and interoceptive factors contributing to constipation, and implement evidence-based interventions to support toileting success through a multi-disciplinary perspective. This course will empower therapists to develop individualized treatment plans that promote bowel regularity, enhance participation in play and daily routines, and reduce the long-term impact of chronic constipation in children.

1. Apply understanding of the medical diagnosis and management of constipation within the therapeutic setting
2. Interpret key history and exam findings consistent with a diagnosis of constipation.
3. Compare different components of the toileting process that are impacted by constipation.
4. Choose appropriate therapeutic treatment interventions for constipation for a variety of ages and functional levels.
5. Describe the social considerations which contribute to success in managing constipation.

In support of improving patient care, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

Mitigation of Relevant Financial Relationships

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia adheres to the ACCME’s Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited Continuing Education. Any individuals in a position to control the content of a CE activity, including faculty, planners, reviewers or others are required to disclose all relevant financial relationships with ineligible entities (commercial interests). All relevant conflicts of interest have been mitigated prior to the commencement of the activity.