Introduction

The major subcortical structures of the cerebrum include the thalamus, the basal ganglia, and the limbic system. Each of these structures plays an important role in both primitive and higher-order functions of the nervous system. They are involved in relaying and prioritising motor and sensory information, motor control and learning, emotional behaviours, and maintaining bodily homeostasis. Rehabilitation professionals utilise many of these skills and abilities in therapy sessions. Therefore, it is beneficial to understand their neuroanatomy origins.

This course overviews the anatomy and function of these subcortical structures and considers their interconnectedness and role in the greater human neuronal network.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this course you will be able to:

• describe the basic neuroanatomical features and function of the thalamus, hypothalamus and epithalamus
• discuss the key neuroanatomical features of the basal ganglia and their clinical significance, focusing on Parkinson's and Huntington's disease
• identify the main structures and overall function of the limbic system

Target audience

This course is aimed at rehabilitation professionals, students and assistants including but not limited to Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Therapists, Rehabilitation Doctors, Rehabilitation Nurses, Prosthetists, Orthotists, Psychologists, Audiologists, Dietetics, Social Workers. Community Health Workers, Nurses or Medical Doctors interested in this subject are also invited to participate.

Practicalities

• Availability - this course is online and can be completed on your own schedule.
• Hours of Learning - No deadlines are applied to this course and it can be started and completed in your own time according to your personal schedule. We expect the required elements to take around 1-1.5 hours depending on your schedule and learning style. Additionally there are many optional resources provided and if you choose to review these the course could take longer to complete.
• Types of Activities - This course includes instructional and/or practical videos, reading activities, AI supported learning activities, reflection, evaluation forms, a quiz and additional resources.
• Certificates - At the end of the course, when you have completed all of the required elements, you will be able to download a certificate of completion and 1.2 Plus points will be added to your personalised learning dashboard.

Instructor financial and non-financial disclosures

No relevant relationships disclosed by instructor.

Accessibility and Non-Discrimination Policy

Physiopedia Plus is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible learning environment for all participants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, national origin, religion, sex, disability, military status, sexual orientation or age in any aspect of our continuing education services. We are dedicated to ensuring that all learners can fully participate in our programmes. Participants who require accommodations or have special needs are encouraged to contact us with details so that we can make all reasonable efforts to meet these requirements.