This course is in an online format. An instructor will be presenting the information via Zoom.  Since there are labs in this course, participants MUST register with a partner, or plan to have a volunteer available to work on during course labs (each group must have a functional webcam). It is expected that the partners will be at the same location for lectures, so that they can participate in labs together. While working with their partners it is expected for participants to adhere to all state and local COVID guidelines, including wearing a mask at all times during the course.

Self-Hosted groups should be no more than 4 individuals for every ultrasound machine available.

This continuing education seminar is a three day course designed to provide instruction in the generation and interpretation of rehabilitative ultrasound images as they relate to the pelvic girdle. Both lecture and lab material will be presented that will allow the participant to immediately incorporate the use of rehabilitative ultrasound imaging into their evaluation and treatment plans for patients with diagnoses including lumbo-pelvic pain and instability, pelvic organ prolapse, and urinary incontinence.

The course comprises of lectures and labs that present both ideal and abnormal responses of real-time imaging of the transverse abdominals, rectus abdominis, deep multifidus, levator ani, bladder, bladder neck, urethra, and vagina during contraction and valsalva. Imaging methods used during labs will consist of transabdominal viewing as well as transperineal/translabial viewing methods. Prior experience with perineal and vaginal assessments is required to take the course. During labs, participants will be able to practice using machines provided by by course sponsors.

Supplies for Self-Hosted US course

• US machine with curvilinear transducer that images a frequency that ranges from 3 to 10 MHz.  It must be able to view abdominal viewing.
• US gel
• Towels or washcloths 5 per day per participant
• Hand sanitizer
• Alcohol free cleaning wipes (saniwipes with grey lid are alcohol free)
• Webcam.  A second webcam that is portable is recommended for labs (a phone is okay)
• If taking the pelvic floor 3 day course the below is also required:
• Chux pads one per participant
• Baby wipes for clean up
• Plastic wrap or US covers

This is an intermediate level rehabilitative ultrasound imaging course intended for therapists having a sound knowledge in training techniques for the local stabilizing muscles of the pelvic floor, transverse abdominals, and deep multifidi muscles and experience with internal vaginal exam. Prior coursework regarding the local stabilizing muscles (Diane Lee/ Linda Joy Lee, Paul Hodges, Pelvic Floor/Pelvic Girdle) is required.

Audience: This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, and other rehabilitation professionals. Content is not intended for use outside the scope of the learner's license or regulation. Physical therapy continuing education courses should not be taken by individuals who are not licensed or otherwise regulated, except, as they are involved in a specific plan of care.

Prerequisites: Prior coursework regarding the assessment and treatment of the local stabilizing muscles and experience with internal and external vaginal assessment.