Illustration of a human back with a highlighted spine, showing lower back pain and spinal issues.

Comprehensive Management of Back and Neck Pain CE26-478526, $169 9.5 CEUs

  • This seminar will provide a comprehensive review of current options for treating back and neck pain. Conservative treatments, including Physical Therapy, Manual Therapy, Pain Management, and Spinal Injections, will be explored by region.

    The latest surgical techniques will also be covered, including Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Endoscopic Spine Surgery, Discectomy, Laminectomy, Spinal Fusion, Disc Replacement, Foraminotomy, and Scoliosis Surgery.

    Additionally, spinal anatomy will be reviewed to support understanding of these treatments. Functional outcomes related to each treatment option will be discussed in detail.

    This course now includes a 1-hour review of Stem Cell Therapy, currently used to treat certain spinal conditions. Emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and related innovations will also be addressed.

    Total Continuing Education Units (CEUs): 9.5

  • 8:30-8:45 Course Objectives
    8:45-9:00 History of management of back and neck pain
    9:00-9:45 Future developments and projections and how these will affect our professions 
    9:45-10:00 Break
    10:00-12:00 Spinal Anatomy
    12:30-1:00 Lunch (on your own)
    1:00-1:30 Common Dysfunctions
    1:30-2:00 Compression Fractures 
    2:00-2:45 Spinal Stenosis
    2:45-3:30 Disc Degeneration 
    3:30-3:45 Break
    3:45-4:45 Spinal Implants
    4:45-5:00 Spinal Injections/Importance of Education
    5:00-5:15 Surgical Interventions

  • This course will give the PT/OT/PTA/COTA a better understanding of commonly used surgical and non-surgical techniques common disorders of the spine (cervical, thoracic and lumbar). Commonly used OT/PT treatments will be discussed as will bracing, medical management, TFESI's, Nerve Stimulators, TENS, Kyphplasties, discectomies, TLIF, PLIF, XLIF, lumbar, cervical fusions, stem cell therapy to name a few. Understanding the natural treatent progression of ones patient suffering from spinal disorders will allow the PT/OT to be more specific and more effective when designing the PT/OT Plan of Care and give the PT/OT/PTA/COTA a great understanding of the treatment plan proposed by the evaluating therapist. The introduction of AI technology into surgcial technology will be discussed as well

    Having this understanding will allow the clinician to reintroduce functional activities faster to help return the patient to reach their prior level of function faster and more safely.

    Furthermore, understanding the rationale behind different treatment approaches prescribed by the ordering physician, will allow the PT/OT/PTA/COTA to better progress the patient towards their goal and allow the treating therapist to better understand when to refer the patient back to the referring physican to allow for more effective and more efficient health care provided to the patient.

    After this course, the attendee will:

    • Have reviewed functional anatomy pertaining to spinal disorders

    • Understand the treatment philosophy for common spinal disorders including spinal stenosis, DDD, DJD, Vertebral  compression fractures to name a few

    • Understand commonly employed surgical techniques and their functional implications for the patients (spinal fusions,   ACDF, TLIF, PLIF, ALIF, XLIF, Kyphoplasties, etc.)

    • Have a better awareness of less invasive options for pts suffering from spinal pain: (n)SAID's, TFESI, Facet blocks,   Traction, Rhizotomies, Stem Cell, Nerve Ablations)

    • Have a good understanding of clinical precautions typically prescribed to patients undergoing aforementioned   procedures

Diagram showing knee joint movement. Part A illustrates knee extension, involving a spin, slide, and roll of the tibia on the femur, which is stationary. Part B depicts knee flexion with the femur stationary, involving roll and slide movements of the tibia, which is also spinning, as it extends.

An Introduction to Manual Therapy for PT's and PTA's

CE26-1292577, $179 9.5 CEUs

  • There appears to be a misunderstanding or a disconnect among PTs and PTAs about what manual therapy consists of and how it should be used within our profession. This course will clear up this confusion by educating attendees on the current State Practice Acts and how these may affect the application of manual therapy.

    We will define manual therapy and discuss its proper application and effect on the patient. A current review of the Chiropractic State Practice Act will be presented to facilitate discussion about the coexistence of Chiropractic and Physical Therapy.

    Following this, attendees will learn about the development of manual therapy and the different perspectives that exist. This will include a discussion of theories brought forward by Evjenth, Kaltenborn, Paris, McKenzie, and others.

    Before effectively applying manual therapy techniques, a solid understanding of anatomy, arthrology, and neurologic pathways is essential. These topics will be reviewed prior to a discussion on common joints that are mobilized.

    Finally, the course will include a hands-on session demonstrating specific techniques, with an explanation of which techniques are appropriate for PTs and which are appropriate for PTAs.

    Total Continuing Education Units (CEUs): 9.5

  • Practice Act Comparison: PT vs. PTA – Scope and Permissions

    • Understand the legal scope of practice for Physical Therapists (PTs) versus Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs)

    • Clarify what tasks and interventions each professional is authorized to perform according to state practice acts

    • Highlight key differences and limitations to ensure compliance with regulations and optimal patient care

    Chiropractic: A Legal Discussion

    • Overview of chiropractic practice within the context of manual therapy and rehabilitation

    • Examination of legal considerations and how chiropractic scope differs from PT and PTA practices

    Joint Anatomy

    • Detailed review of joint structures, including bones, ligaments, capsules, and cartilage

    • Emphasis on anatomical features relevant to manual therapy interventions

    Joint Physiology and Neuroanatomy

    • Exploration of the physiological functions of joints during movement

    • Understanding the neuroanatomical components influencing joint function and pain modulation

    Arthrokinematics

    • Study of the small accessory motions occurring within joints during normal joint play

    • Application of arthrokinematic principles to assess and facilitate proper joint movement

    Mobilizations: Different Views and Techniques

    • When to mobilize versus when to stabilize joints for optimal therapeutic outcomes

    • Overview of various mobilization approaches and their unique philosophies:

      • McKenzie Method

      • Kaltenborn Technique

      • Evjenth Approach

      • Paris Method

      • Maitland Concept

      • Mulligan Concept

    Classifications of Mobilization

    • Distinguish between grades and types of mobilizations

    • Understand indications and goals for each classification to tailor treatments appropriately

    Importance of Documentation

    • Emphasize thorough, accurate documentation for accountability and legal protection

    • Documentation best practices related to manual therapy interventions and progress tracking

    Most Common Joints to Receive Mobilizations

    • Identify joints frequently targeted in manual therapy (e.g., cervical spine, lumbar spine, shoulder, knee, ankle)

    • Discuss typical pathologies and indications for mobilization in these joints

    • Gain knowledge of the history and evolution of manual therapy

    • Understand differences in Practice Acts governing PTs, PTAs, and Chiropractors

    • Clearly define manual therapy and skilled passive range of motion

    • Appreciate arthrokinematics and effectively apply evidence-based mobilization techniques to facilitate joint movement

    • Differentiate among various classifications of mobilization and their appropriate clinical use

    • Recognize the critical importance of detailed and accurate documentation

    • Learn about the most common joints treated with mobilizations in clinical practice

New Technologies Affecting Post-Op Rehab

CE26-478524, $169 9.5 CEUs

  • With today’s rapid development and introduction of new orthopedic implants, it is challenging to keep pace with these advancements. This seminar will cover the latest developments in orthopedic replacement techniques and how these procedures impact postoperative rehabilitation. Topics include Genderknee, reverse shoulder, Birmingham hip resurfacing, and other emerging technologies.

    The seminar will also address functional rehabilitation and its effect on clinical outcomes. This class has been updated to include discussions on Patient-Specific Cutting Blocks, navigation systems, and the latest hip and knee technologies, such as hip anteverted/retroverted systems and their influence on postoperative rehab.

    Additionally, the introduction of AI technology into surgical practices will be explored.

    Total Continuing Education Units (CEUs): 9.5

  • 8:00–8:30       Registration
    8:30–9:30       Objectives: Projected growth of elective orthopedic joint procedures and the effect this will have on our professions
    9:30–11:30     Shoulder replacement surgeries
    11:30–12:30    Elbow replacement
    12:30–1:00      Lunch
    1:00–2:00        Hip replacement procedures, including THA, partial, and Hip Resurfacing
    2:00–3:00        Knee replacement procedures, including TKA, PKA, and Synvisc injection
    3:00–4:00        Other important factors to consider, including Navigation, Custom Cutting Blocks, etc.
    4:00–4:30        Importance of education and discharge planning
    4:30–5:00        Review and Q&A

  • This course will give PTs, OTs, PTAs, and COTAs a better understanding of commonly used surgical techniques for orthopedic impairments, including joint replacement surgeries and fracture management. This knowledge will enable clinicians to be more specific and effective when designing the plan of care and will increase awareness of any joint precautions that may be in place.

    With this understanding, clinicians can safely reintroduce functional activities sooner to help patients return to their prior level of function. A prime example is the specific precautions for reverse shoulder replacement. As a newer and increasingly common procedure, clinicians will encounter these patients in practice. Understanding the surgical approach, the reversal of shoulder mechanics, and the reliance on the deltoid muscle for shoulder stability will help clinicians appreciate the different rehabilitation approach required for these patients.

    Additionally, understanding the rationale behind weight-bearing restrictions for various lower-extremity orthopedic procedures will allow clinicians to better integrate a patient’s ambulatory status into their activity progression.

Clinical Imaging for the Rehab Specialist

CE26-815010, $169 9.5 CEUs

  • As the Physical Therapy profession advances toward becoming a first-line provider and Vision 2020 approaches, Physical Therapists are increasingly likely to see patients who have not been previously evaluated by a Medical Doctor. Additionally, with imaging technologies evolving at an accelerating pace, it is crucial for rehabilitation professionals to develop at least a basic understanding of the imaging options available today.

    This course is designed for today’s rehabilitation professionals, including OT/OTA/PT/PTA, to provide an overview of current imaging modalities. It will also enhance attendees' understanding of why specific images are ordered, aiding in the development of more informed treatment plans.

    Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapy Assistants will particularly benefit from this seminar by gaining insight into the imaging studies their patients may undergo based on their diagnoses. Moreover, OT/OTA/PT/PTA participants will acquire a foundational understanding of the principles behind X-ray, CT, and MRI interpretations using the ABC acronym:

    • A for Alignment

    • B for Bone density

    • C for Cartilaginous (or Joint) space

    By applying this acronym when reviewing images, clinicians will gain a better appreciation of the arthrokinematics contributing to patients’ symptoms. This understanding will enable more precise development and application of OT/PT plans of care.

    The course will cover various joint disorders involving the shoulder, hand, fingers, wrist, knee, hip, ankle, and spine through the lens of the ABC approach.

    Please note that this course does not train attendees to read images independently but emphasizes the relevance and application of contemporary imaging options in today’s rehabilitation practice. It is specifically designed for OT, OTA, PT, and PTA professionals.

    Total Continuing Education Units (CEUs): 9.5

    • Understand why this class would be helpful to you as a healthcare provider.

    • Vision 2020: Position yourself as a first-line provider.

    • Address challenges in diagnosing effectively.

    • Recognize the importance of establishing the correct treatment diagnosis.

    • Develop skills to interpret imaging comprehensively:

      • Look beyond fractures to assess positioning, alignment, bone quality, muscle wasting, muscle imbalances, etc.

    • Utilize imaging as a patient educational tool.

    • Obtain a complete clinical picture without relying solely on others' interpretations.

    • Understand the legal aspects of imaging reports and their implications.

    • Gain knowledge of various imaging modalities, their history, and appropriate indications, including:

      • X-ray

      • CT/CAT

      • MRI

      • MRA

      • Myelogram

      • Fluoroscopy

      • Ultrasound

      • Nuclear Medicine

      • Bone scan

      • Others

    • Appreciate the clinical relevance of imaging and how it supports physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs) in delivering accurate treatment diagnoses.

    • Differentiate between static and dynamic imaging techniques.

    • Review common fractures and pathologies encountered in practice.