MITCHELL SMITH

Presentation Title:

Developmental Coordination Disorder - how can podiatrists help? 

Presentation Overview:

Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is a common motor skills disorder in children which can have significant impacts on physical activity, participation, and school performance. While podiatrists have not traditionally been part of the core care team for kids with DCD, recent research has showed evidence of gait and functional changes. We also know these kids are presenting to podiatry clinics due to tripping, awkward and clumsy gait, and fatigue. This presentation will cover basic information on DCD, recent meta-analysis data on gait differences, and best evidence for intervention, all targeted towards podiatrists. 

Bio: 

Mitchell is a Melbourne based podiatrist currently working in Paediatrics across Peninsula Health and Monash Health in the public sector. Since completing a Bachelor of Podiatry (Honours) at the University of South Australia Mitchell has also worked in high risk foot, community health, and NDIS settings, and has gained Endorsement for Scheduled Medicines. He has published research in developmental coordination disorder, with focus on gait changes and current podiatry assessment and management practices for kids with DCD. Outside of work Mitchell is an avid theatre performer and attendee.