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. 

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.

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.

Date: 6/17/08 AND 6/19/08    half day from 6:30pm-9:45pm (6 hr. class in 2 nights)

Faculty: Theresa A. Schmidt, MS,PT,OCS,LMT,CEAS,DD

Sponsored by Educise Resources Inc.    Location: Flex PT, Long Island NY

Register on-line for one or all:  www.educise.com

Each course: $199, Two for $369, Three for $469  Class size is limited, sign up early!

Educise  P.O. Box 1480 Massapequa NY 11758      Info call: 631-226-2191

Educise Course Offering Flyer – June 2008