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OMTN: Orthopedic Manual Therapy: Neck
COURSE DESCRIPTION

OMT1 offers an eclectic approach to examination and treatment techniques for the cervical spine. Students will learn how to perform a cervical spinal assessment including posture analysis, motion testing, selective tissue tension tests, strength and basic neurological testing. A review of common cervical diagnoses will be provided. Treatment approaches emphasize manual therapy: medical massage, myofascial release, (MFR) integrated neuromuscular re-education, (INMR) muscle energy (MET) and positional release. Students will gain experience in use of Functional Precision Exercises for improving range of motion, strength and stability of the cervical spine Students will be able to apply the skills learned in this course to a wide variety of clinical disorders of the cervical spine.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Participants will be able to:
  1. Perform an assessment of the cervical spine, including postural analysis, soft tissue palpation analysis, motion testing, strength and basic neurological testing.
  2. Recognize signs and symptoms of cervical disorders including sprain, strain, disc disease, joint dysfunction, myofascial pain syndrome, and postural dysfunction.
  3. Discuss the rationale for the use of MFR, INMR, MET, positional release, and functional precision exercise in treatment for the cervical spine.
  4. Apply myofascial release, integrated neuromuscular re-education, muscle energy and positional release as part of a manual therapy intervention for cervical spinal disorders.
  5. Instruct a client in correct use of Functional Precision Exercise for improving flexibility, strength, and stability of the neck.
PREPARATIONS

Participants will wear lab clothes for practice, such as halter tops and sweat suits or patient gowns. Inform the instructor if you have any conditions that may require special assistance before the class. Do not allow any partner to practice on you if you experience pain with any technique. The seminar is not intended to diagnose or treat any disorders; you should see your physician. It is best to review cervical anatomy prior to attending the course to achieve an optimal learning experience.  It is highly recommended students bring a massage table or mat to practice on.

 COURSE DIRECTOR

Theresa A. Schmidt, MS,PT,OCS,LMT,CEAS,Chy., is the president of Flex Physical Therapy in Long Island, 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.

SCHEDULE

  • 8:30-9:00 Review of relevant anatomy, biomechanics, and kinesiology of the cervical spine.
  • 9:00-10:00 Cervical Spine Assessment with lab
  • 10:00-10:15 Break
  • 10:15-10:30 Common Cervical Diagnostic Categories
  • 10:30-12:00 Medical Massage and Myofascial Techniques with lab
  • 12:00-1:00 Lunch
  • 1:00-2:00 Integrated Neuromuscular Re-education Concepts
  • 2:00-3:00 Positional Release with lab
  • 3:00-3:15 Break
  • 3:15-4:00 Muscle Energy Therapy with lab
  • 4:00-4:45 Functional Precision Exercises demonstration
  • 4:45-5:00 Discussion
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