Brainstem

By the end of Weekend 2, participants will be able to:

1. Identify the major anatomical regions of the brainstem and describe their roles in sensory, motor, and autonomic regulation.

2. Localize brainstem dysfunction using cranial nerve examination and lesion mapping patterns.

3. Explain vestibular system function including otolith vs semicircular canal mechanics.

4. Assess clinical symptoms such as gaze instability, dysautonomia, and balance disorders.

5. Perform oculomotor and vestibular bedside tests including saccades, pursuit, VOR, head impulse, and fixation.

6. Evaluate autonomic function through HRV, vagal pathway assessment, and respiratory entrainment.

7. Apply vestibular rehabilitation principles including sensory mismatch, gaze stabilization, and otolith activation.

8. Implement cranial nerve activation strategies including hypoglossal, facial, and trigeminal integration.

9. Integrate neuromodulation tools such as tVNS/tTNS, PBM, and respiratory pacing into brainstem rehab.

10. Develop full rehabilitation circuits combining vestibular, cranial nerve, and neuromodulation therapies.

11. Interpret clinical cases (concussion, stroke, dysautonomia) to guide brainstem-focused planning.