Upper Extremity Myofascial Chains: Identifying the Source of Dysfunction and Treatment

Course Description:

We learn in school what fascia and myofascia are all about – at least a little, right?!  But do we really understand how many times we will see the issue as we practice?  Both are often confused with other dysfunctions.  Are we sure that we are correctly assessing the differential diagnoses?  What if we are commonly missing myofascial issues?  And when we do diagnose the myofascial disorder- how do we effectively treat the issue?

Dr. Pandya will cover how:

• To identify the difference between fascial versus myofascial pain
• To differentiate between the pathology and differential diagnoses of myofascial pain
• To recognize the evidence-based research of myofascial chains
• To identify upper extremity myofascial chains
• To identify elements of case studies and how they can apply to daily practice
• To recognize and understand evaluation and treatment techniques

Methods of Instruction:

Online audio/video course

Course Instructor:

Rina Pandya, PT, DPT

Target Audience:

Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapist Assistants and Athletic Trainers.

Educational Level:

Intermediate

Prerequisites:

None

Course Goals and Objectives:

At the completion of this course, participants should be able to:

1. Differentiate between fascia and myofascial.  Identify the causes of myofascial pain
2. Identify potential differential diagnoses for myofascial pain
3. Recognize myofascial chains
4. Identify myofascial pain comorbidities-chronic neck pain, chronic tension headaches, chronic cranio-fascial/cervicobrachial pain, orofascial pain, oncologic diseases, osteoarthritics, etc.
5. Identify how IASTM is utilized and subsequent treatment techniques
6. Recognize the Graston Technique
7. Recognize the indications for trigger point therapy and indications/contraindications
8. Recognize the SFMA – Selective Functional Movement Assessment
9. Differentiate between treatments and indications for: Kinesiotaping, Dry Needling and Foam Rolling
10. Recognize Myofascial Chain Exercises and how to implement them in a treatment program

Criteria for Obtaining Continuing Education Credits:

A score of 70% or greater on the post-test