Course Description:

In the orthopedic setting physical therapists are competent in diagnosis and treatment of pain and dysfunction. The concept of the pain being caused by dysfunction elsewhere is not new to PTs. However, the treatment order & technique selection, which are used to address the dysfunction, have not always been considered a high priority.
This instruction in proper treatment sequencing & technique selection is an osteopathic method by which the upper and lower body is diagnosed for the area of greatest restriction (AGR) of joint, muscle or Dural dysfunction related to multi-plane movement. This assessment and treatment methodology can be traced back to Andrew Taylor Still, MD, DO, (1828-1917), the Founder of Osteopathy. Based on the information gained from this examination, the most effective area to treat first, second, third, etc. can be selected, along with the most effective technique type for the restrictive barrier noted.
The human body functions via interconnected tensile and inert structures. This is the ‘Tensegrity’ model. This model takes us away from the mechanical model where the spinal strength is thought to come from piling one vertebral body upon another.
Utilizing Tensegrity, the interconnection and interdependence of body regions becomes clear. Research has shown that Tensegrity accounts not only for mechanical force distribution, but can play a role in cellular metabolism as well. Understanding the Tensegrity system can have a profound impact on your patient outcomes.
The diagnosis of the upper and lower body’s area of greatest restriction is performed. Once the pattern of restriction is noted in a given area, the clinician is required to go deeper to assess the specific dysfunction that is present and the character of the restrictive barrier, thus allowing for corrective treatment to be efficiently implemented. A system of diagnosis, treatment and re-diagnosis is used to further refine the cause of the dysfunction (AGR). This allows for more efficient & effective treatment and therefore better outcomes.
Sequencing and diagnosis of AGR are an effective adjunct to the therapist’s current skill, so more effective lasting and timely treatment can be undertaken in the out patient setting. When you carry this concept of sequencing on into the exercise component of your treatment sessions, you will have all the makings of a master clinician.