Shoulder and cervical spine course

Learn how the static and dynamic posture of the upper extremity, cervical spine and jaw may contribute to the patient’s signs and symptoms. This program includes a review of shoulder biomechanics, jaw mechanics and different aetiology of headache. It will examine the influence of thoracic spine stiffness, jaw symmetry, cervical spine movement, muscle tightness and muscle control problems on shoulder girdle and neck movements. Numerous intervention strategies will be discussed.

There is an extensive lab component teaching shoulder and upper extremity taping muscle training techniques. Learn treatment strategies to address impingement, frozen shoulder, anterior translation of the humeral head, and multi-directional instability, as well as headache, and cervical nerve root pain.

At the completion of the course you will be able to:

• discuss ideal shoulder posture and muscle function
• evaluate glenohumeral position and thoracic spine stiffness
• mobilize a stiff thoracic spine.
• mobilise for cervical spine problems
• learn methods of activating the lower and middle fibers of trapezius, infraspinitus and teres minor, and posterior deltoid
• tape to attain more appropriate alignment of the shoulder and unload painful structures of neck and shoulder
• use surface EMG for neuro-muscular re-education
• design a home exercise program