Course Description:

Many clinicians harbor the mistaken impression that female and male pelvic issues always require internal examination and treatment. Orthopedic physical therapists typically do not perform internal pelvic techniques, nor seek such training. Yet research shows that many patients present with issues assigned to both “specialties,” causing patients to choose management of one or the other. This construct promotes a huge divide that creates arbitrary barriers in the body and in practice that do not yield optimal results for pelvic and orthopedic patients. Full and sustainable recovery for both populations may be compromised by such artificial compartmentalizing. Our bipedal nature forges a strong biomechanical alliance between the lumbopelvic segments and lower extremities. Research supports that a key component to this regional interdependence is the myofascial network, which promotes a relationship between the organs, nerves, lymphatic/circulatory vessels, skeletal, integumentary, respiratory, and myofascial structures of the lumbopelvic segments and lower limbs. The phenomenon of referred symptoms and central/peripheral sensitization may also be explained by this seamless network. In this course participants will explore evidence-based methods for approaching the body globally and externally to effectively address pelvic and orthopedic connective tissue dysfunctions using Fascial Manipulation-Stecco®, exercise, dry needling, patient education, and cupping, appreciating the need for further learning and referral when appropriate.