Purpose

Manual physical therapy is an important dimension of physical therapy practice. This laboratory-based course will focus on the fundamentals of manual physical therapy that are applicable in various physical therapy practice settings. A foundational set of manual physical therapy interventions and manual therapy clinical reasoning that is informed by recent evidence will be taught. Instruction on interventions for the spine and extremities will be provided including joint and soft tissue mobilization, manipulation, mobilization with movement, muscle energy, trigger point, strain counterstrain, and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. Interventions and clinical reasoning will be instructed with consideration of orthopaedic, neurological, and geriatric populations and selected based on current evidence.

Target Audience

This lab is suited for physical therapists (PTs) who are currently practicing manual therapy but is looking to update and improve upon their skills. It is also suited for the PT who may not routinely use manual therapy, has switched practice settings, or is in a non-orthopaedic setting where manual therapy may be underutilized. This course is not open to PTAs or other health professionals.

Objectives

• Identify manual therapy precautions, treatment parameters, and screening considerations as assessed by discussion.
• Practice manual therapy interventions safely and effectively as assessed by lab partner short-term response to treatment. 
• Demonstrate selected manual therapy techniques informed by evidence as assessed by instructors.

Agenda

* Agenda is subject to change. In each body region, selected joint and soft tissue mobilization, mobilization with movement, muscle energy, trigger point, strain counterstrain, and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization techniques will be instructed. Manipulation techniques will be taught for the thoracic and lumbar spine, hip, and ankle. 

Lab Clothing

Each participant's body must be accessible for observation and application of manual interventions. Sports bra, tank top, or halter top and shorts are appropriate for women. Shorts or swim trunks for men. Please refrain from wearing large or sharp jewelry. While every effort is made to keep the lab at a comfortable temperature, if you chill easily please bring a sweater or jacket. Please notify the instructor if there are special circumstances that prohibits wearing requested laboratory attire. 

Instructor

Shane McClinton, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT, CSCS
Physical Therapist, Physical Therapy Clinic and Assistant Professor, Post-Professional Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, Des Moines University

Education

• PhD candidate, Orthopaedic and Sports Science Program – Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions, Provo, UT
• Fellowship in Manual Physical Therapy, Regis University, Denver, CO
• Post Professional Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT), Des Moines University, Des Moines, IA
• Masters of Science in Physical Therapy (MSPT), Des Moines University, Des Moines, IA

Full biography

Continuing Education Credit

Certificates of attendance will be given for 15.0 continuing education contact hours.

PPDPT students: Rules adopted by the Iowa Board of Physical and Occupational Therapy Examiners indicate that one academic credit hour equals 15 continuing education credit hours. The licensee may obtain continuing education hours of credit by providing official transcripts to the board indicating successful completion of academic courses that apply to physical therapy. Physical therapists licensed in a state other than Iowa who are required to complete continuing education for licensure will need to check their state’s physical therapy licensure law and rules concerning continuing education credit for academic courses.

Hotel Accommodations

There are numerous hotels available in the Des Moines area. Below are a few options located downtown (close to campus), near the airport and west of Des Moines. Some hotels offer shuttle service to DMU, but you must inquire with the hotel directly. Some hotels may offer a discount (based on availability). Mention DMU to your hotel to see if a discount may be available. View a list of hotel options. 

Welcome to Des Moines

In Des Moines, you can experience the excitement of the city and explore rural Iowa’s charming beauty. Connecting with your peers, shopping, food and activities make great memories.  This affordable, cosmopolitan city has an impressive blend of world class art and premier attractions, such as the Science Center of Iowa and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park.  Miles of trails to walk or cycle allow you to see the city and the beauty of its rivers and parks ~ just steps away from the conference.  Bicycles are available for rent through the BCycle program! When it comes to dining, our city offers incredible food prepared by talented chefs.  You will experience some of the finest tasting pork to Tai pizza.  Another added benefit is downtown’s four-mile, climate-controlled skywalk system (the largest skywalk system per capita in the world), our booming suburbs, and unique shopping in the East Village. Greater Des Moines is a growing metropolis with an array of attractions and entertainment in a setting that boasts a rich history, a thriving present and a very bright future, all while maintaining a special charm that touches all who visit.  Learn more about Des Moines at the following websites:

• City of Des Moines
• See Des Moines official visitor guide
• Downtown Farmer’s Market
• TripAdvisor – Des Moines