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MFR1: Myofascial Release Level 1
State of the Art Soft Tissue Mobilization
  1. Understand the intricate anatomy and function of our complex myofascial system.
  2. Identify specific myofascial restrictions and their impact on posture and movement.
  3. Interact therapeutically with the fascial structures to assess and treat motion restrictions using myofascial release.
  4. Apply myofascial release techniques to the spine and extremities, to improve movement, posture, comfort, and function.
COURSE DESCRIPTION

The Problem

Clients often present with a constellation of sometimes vague and unusual symptoms that do not follow typical dermatomal or myotomal patterns. They report pain, stiffness or difficulty moving, and sensations of tension in areas distant from the apparent region of injury. Many of these clients are experiencing myofascial pain. It does not appear on usual radiographic studies such as x-rays, MRIs, or our standard examination routines. It is best diagnosed by the skill of a manual therapy practitioner. Myofascial restrictions can influence posture and movement patterns. It may take quite some time for the myofascial pattern to develop. Usually the symptoms appear months or years after a trauma or stressful event. It may occur at the point when the body has maximized its adaptive potential and loses the ability to compensate for abnormal tissue tension. Standard treatment protocols using medication, exercise and modalities may fail to address the problem effectively. In this course, you will learn how to identify the precursors to and sequelae of myofascial restrictions through posture and motion assessment. You will learn the basics of how to apply MFR to improve tissue mobility, circulation, and posture scanning using manual therapy technology to achieve significant results.

What my program will do about the problem

In MFR1 you will learn hands-on in analysis and treatment of musculoskeletal imbalances that influence posture and movement. MFR1 explores the subtle motions and restrictions inherent in the body that may not be readily apparent during standard examinations. The relationship between abnormal painful movement patterns and myofascial restrictions will be explored. Emphasis will be on restoring balanced posture and efficient movement patterns using myofascial release techniques. The concept of interacting with the body tissues to facilitate a change is emphasized, rather than imposing movement upon the system. It is not just a system of tissue stretching; it is an acquired skill in how to use your proprioceptive senses to detect changes in tissue mobility, texture and tone. You will be able to apply specific forces using specific vectors to enhance mobility of the connective tissue. You will learn superficial and deep releases to positively impact the multidimensional fascial system. You can often produce significant results within minutes in the tissues. Patients will note a reduction in pain and spasm, improved circulation, posture and movement. Do you want real results that are reimbursed at one of the highest CPT allowances in the health care industry? Learn myofascial release, and watch your practice expand. Myofascial techniques can be used to treat a variety of diagnoses to achieve outstanding functional results.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

What You Will Learn:
  1. Understand the intricate anatomy and function of our complex myofascial system.
  2. Discuss the etiology of myofascial restrictions.
  3. Perform a myofascial evaluation of posture and mobility.
  4. Identify specific myofascial restrictions and their impact on posture and movement.
  5. Describe indications and contraindications for myofascial release.
  6. Interact therapeutically with the fascial structures to assess and treat motion restrictions using myofascial release.
  7. Apply myofascial release techniques to the spine and extremities, to improve movement, posture, comfort, and function.
  8. Integrate myofascial release interventions into a therapeutic treatment program.
COURSE DIRECTOR

Theresa A. Schmidt, MS,PT,OCS,LMT,CEAS,Chy., is the president of Flex Physical Therapy in Massapequa, NY, and founder of Educise Resources Inc., a health and education company. She is Board-certified in Orthopedic Physical Therapy by ABPTS since 1994. Theresa graduated Long Island University's Masters Program in Physical Therapy with Highest Honors. She served as faculty at Touro College Physical Therapy Programs in New York, NY, at Nassau Community College and CUNY Queens College. Theresa completed extensive studies in Orthopedic manual therapies including, MFR, Craniosacral Therapy, Muscle Energy, Counterstrain, Joint Mobilization, Functional Technique, high velocity thrust, visceral manipulation, acupressure Amma therapy, and therapeutic touch. Theresa is a licensed massage therapist, certified Hypnotherapist with IACT, and a personal trainer. She has presented throughout the US for APTA, AMTA/NY, IDEA, ACE, NYSSMMT, New York College for Wholistic Health Education and Research, Council of Licensed Physiotherapists, Cross Country Education Inc, private hospitals and clinics across the United States.

Course Content

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
Anatomy and Function of Fascia in Normal and Pathological Conditions: Histology of fascia, pathophysiology, and response to abnormal stress and trauma


POSTURE AND MOTION EXAMINATION
Examination of posture, observation and motion palpation for identification of fascial restrictions, demonstration


UNDERSTAND PRINCIPLES OF TISSUE RELEASE
How myofascial release works: basic myofascial release principles: manual therapy approach, proprioceptive appreciation, taking up slack, tissue creep, still point and release


RECOGNIZE INDICATIONS, CONTRAINDICATIONS AND EFFECTS OF MFR
Physiological response to soft tissue mobilization: therapeutic pulse, thermal response and lengthening of connective tissue adhesions, increase in range of motion and tissue flexibility

Indications and contraindications to myofascial release
APPLY MFR TECHNIQUES

Myofascial Release techniques:
  • 3-D releases: tissue gliding, crosshands, tissue and muscle play techniques demonstration and lab: applications to specific regions
  • Distraction Techniques demonstration and lab: extremity pull
  • Soft tissue mobilization demonstration and lab: deep interfiber/ inter- and intramuscular longitudinal stroking, Z-friction, circular friction releases, elbowing, knuckling, releases, respiratory, diaphragm and psoas releases.
  • Demonstration of multiple applications for the entire body
CLINICAL INTEGRATION
  • Clinical examples of integration of techniques into a treatment program will be discussed, including how to combine MFR with other manual therapies such as counterstrain and muscle energy/ contract-relax.
  • Clinical problem solving and discussion in a question and answer format will be encouraged throughout the day.
PROFESSIONAL COMMENTS

"Theresa Schmidt is an incredible teacher who invigorates her students with her multidisciplinary approaches to teaching. Presenting her in-depth knowledge and skill in her seminars, she gives you material to use immediately in your clinic and many valuable hands-on tools to enhance your practice." Jodie Collins, PT, physical therapist, Island Therapies, Babylon, NY.

"Theresa Schmidt is a gifted instructor - both in terms of didactic knowledge and hands-on skills." Kathleen Miller, PT, physical therapist, Westbury, NY

"Theresa Schmidt is an outstanding, dynamic, incredibly intelligent instructor. You don't want to miss her workshops." Kerrie Flynn, LMT, massage therapist, Medical Massage Director, NY State Society of Medical Massage Therapists, and instructor of the New York College of Health Professions, Massage Therapy Program, Long Island, NY

"Theresa A. Schmidt is a great teacher. She has hands- on (practice) which helps more than someone speaking the whole time. She is friendly and fun to learn from. I feel that her seminars are the best ones around!" Margaret Krispin, LMT, Licensed Massage Therapist, Wantagh, NY

"I attended one of Theresa Schmidt's Myofascial Release Seminars right after I received my massage license in 1989, and her seminar was AWESOME! I marveled at her expertise in teaching the technique and subject matter, explaining about the muscles and how they functioned after this type of work was applied, as well as by her vast knowledge of the body and her topic. She taught with laughter, patience and added fun and great energy during the learning process that day. I walked away at the end of the workshop, *knowing* how to perform the techniques, and feeling confident in my ability, due to her endless practice sessions and wonderful reinforcement when I asked questions. She was concerned that I would *understand * and be able to *master* the techniques by the end of the workshop. I feel she is an excellent teacher and has much to give when people attend her workshops and classes." In Health, Respectfully, Renee' Amico-Taback, LMT, Licensed Massage Therapist, Westbury, New York

"Ms. Schmidt's preparation and knowledge of her subject matter, the ability to get the concept understood and the additional development of hands-on skills is outstanding. Ms. Schmidt stays current with the literature and offers a wide variety of treatment options that can be utilized come Monday morning for a patient's major complaint." Dr. Stephen P. Martucci, Chiropractor, Massapequa Park, NY

WHO SHOULD ATTEND
  • Physical Therapists
  • Physical Therapist Assistants
  • Occupational Therapists
  • Occupational Therapist Assistants
  • Physicians
  • Chiropractors
  • Massage Therapists
  • Athletic Trainers
  • Nurses
  • Rehabilitation professional educators
  • Accupunturists
COURSE CREDIT

This program has been awarded 0.61 continuing education credits (CEUs)by the New York Society for Continuing Education in Physical Therapy, Inc., (NYSCEPT). Educise Resources, Inc. is an approved provider of continuing education by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, NCBTMB.

PREPARATIONS

This is a hands-on course. Participants must bring lab clothes to practice in, including halter tops and shorts, and massage tables or mats with blanket/pillows for positioning and draping during lab. Bring massage lotion. Hotel buffet tables with chairs are provided, however, a massage table would afford improved practice. Review muscle and fascial anatomy prior to class to enhance your learning experience.

SCHEDULE
  • 8:00-9:00 Anatomy and Function of Fascia in Normal and Pathological Conditions
  • 9:00-9:30 Posture Assessment, motion palpation, assessment of fascial restriction
  • 9:30-9:40 Break
  • 9:40-10:10 Myofascial Release Concepts, Indications and Contraindications
  • 10:10-11:30 Myofascial Release Techniques: Tissue glide, tissue and muscle play, crosshand releases
  • 11:30-12:00 Lunch (on your own)
  • 12:00-12:45 Distraction Techniques Demonstration: Extremity Pull
  • 12:45-1:45 Circular friction, Elbowing, Knuckling, Interfiber stroking, and Z-friction, deep release techniques
  • 1:45-1:55 Break
  • 1:55-3:00 Z-friction and applications for specific diagnoses or conditions
  • 3:00-3:30 Integration with Question and Answer Problem Solving
Schedule may be adjusted at the discretion of the instructor to meet the needs of the participants.
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