Introduction
- Why we need to understand the neck and shoulder girdle better
- Review of current biomechanical theories and research on cervical spine
- Using Classification Systems and Functional Index findings to guide treatment planning
- Causes of neck pain and disability—biomechanical and neurological changes
Common Hyper- and Hypo-Mobility Diagnoses Therapists Treat in the Cervical and Scapular-thoracic region
- Whiplash, Herniated Nucleus Pulposus (HNP), spondylosis, radiculopathy, scoliosis
- Hypo-mobility diagnoses—stenosis, kyphosis, facet joint dysfunction, Degenrative Disk Disease (DDD)
How do we stabilize?
- Review of relevant functional anatomy of the cervical-scapulo-thoracic region
- Discuss biomechanical model of the Cervical Motion Segment and effects of instability
- Effects of posture and aging on tissue structure and motor control
Lab 1: Palpation AND Posture Assessment
- Bony structures and gross muscle testing
- Posture observations and documentation of scoliosis and scapular winging
- Special tests—Jull’s Test for Cranio-cervical stability, Standing Arm Elevation, Axial compression, vertebral artery, Spurling’s test, and Scapular Balancing Index
Common Surgical aND Non-surgical treatments
- Laminectomy, discectomy, cervical fusion, disc replacement
- Pain management strategies—spinal injections, trigger point injections, Botox, and acupuncture
- Clinical Modalities—iontophoresis, manual vs. mechanical traction
Lab 2: HANDS-ON TREATMENT TECHNIQUES
- Mobility testing and TMJ screening
- Soft Tissue Mobilization—passive release, muscle energy release, and tissue unwinding
- Demonstration of advanced mobilization techniques—MET and Mobilization with movement
Neuromuscular Re-Education: Clinical applications AND Treatments
- Pressure biofeedback for deep neck flexors and scapular stability exercises
- Specialized taping techniques using kinesio-taping and McConnell taping strategies
Stabilization for Neck AND Scapula
- Critical links and 3 Postural Zones
- Weak links in the Stability Chain
- Progression of Exercise Programs
Lab 3: Stabilization AND Scapular Mobility Exercises
- Deep neck flexor training and Cervical “clock” exercises
- Connecting the postural zones
- Mobilization exercises for Scapular-thoracic region
- Building scapula-thoracic postural control
- Advanced exercise techniques—gliding discs, yoga, PNF, and dynamic reaction training
Additionally, this course includes extensive, hands-on lab and demonstration sessions to allow participants to practice treatment techniques and exercise progressions. PNF techniques, as well as Pilates principles will be used to improve functional movement patterns. Clinical pearls with inexpensive, readily-available clinical supplies and equipment will also be shared, including specialized taping and neuromuscular re-education techniques for addressing common substitution patterns. Participants will learn new tools and techniques that can be implemented into their clinical practice the very next day.