This two- day class is designed to give physical therapists a solid introduction to osteopathic-based evaluation of the lumbopelvic spine (lumbar spine, sacrum and pelvis ) and treatment using Muscle Energy Technique. This osteopathic model has long been shown to be effective for treatment of spinal origin but also aids in reducing neuroreflexive inhibition of muscle strength as well as decreasing muscle tone to restore normal length-tension relationships. Special considerations will be given to that concept in relationship to the pelvic floor.

For pelvic floor physical therapists, this is a holistic and integrative model that will greatly enhance your ability to address musculoskeletal dysfunctions of the spine and pelvis that affect pelvic floor function. It is applicable to the full spectrum of patients seen in your clinic, including men and women with pelvic pain and incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pregnant and post-partum women. This course is also appropriate for orthopedic therapists and those who do not focus on pelvic floor patients but want to learn to address musculoskeletal dysfunctions of the spine and pelvis.

With over 50% of the class devoted to laboratory, students will have ample time to learn these gentle hands-on skills needed to make accurate assessment of the segmental dysfunctions and be able to provide localized treatment to the involved joints. There will also be an opportunity to learn specific therapeutic exercise and movement retraining that supports the changes in the joints and muscles, promoting better movement. The class will provide clinicians tools that can be immediately applied in the clinic.