McConnell approach to musculoskeletal problems

This workshop will examine how an individual’s structure determines how they move and the impact their structure has on the way load is distributed as well as the consequences the loading has on symptom production. The importance of starting position, creep and adaptive shortening will be highlighted, and the way these issues impact soft tissue structures and pain development will be discussed. A theoretical and evidence-based underpinning to the material will be provided. Assessment and treatment of lumbar spine, hip, knee, foot, shoulder, cervical spine and jaw will be analysed. Strategies for rescuing the older knee and shoulder, as well as chronic back, headache and whiplash problems will be addressed.

By the end of the workshop the clinician will:

• have an understanding of the mechanical mechanisms underlying musculoskeletal problems
• understand the concept of starting position and the significance this has on the way an individual moves
• understand some biomechanical effects of habitually altered starting positions e.g. creep and adaptive shortening
• have some knowledge of the effects of pain on the musculoskeletal system
• be able to analyse the effect of certain postures on movement patterns
• understand when and how to use tape in the management of certain musculoskeletal conditions such as low back and leg pain, shoulder pain
• have some knowledge about the effectiveness of tape in managing certain musculoskeletal problems
• be able to plan a treatment intervention for certain musculoskeletal problems
• have some knowledge of treatment strategies to take patients out of their end of range thus empowering the patient to manage their own symptoms