Differential Diagnosis of the Upper Quadrant On-Site Training

This on-site training class is also available as Public Schedule Seminar.

This course will combine an efficient examination process with evidence based screening principles in order to identify and sequence a custom treatment plan tailored to the dysfunction.

Course Description/Agenda

Direct access now demands that clinicians understand and master the art of differential diagnosis as it relates to both neuro-musculoskeletal dysfunctions and co-morbidities. Physical examination and treatment of the upper quadrant requires a thorough understanding of the pathomechanics of the shoulder complex, cervico-thoracic complex and upper ribs. Upper quadrant dysfunction in any of these specified regions can influence pain, posture and motion of the entire core and peripheral joints. Therefore, clinicians need to possess a solid skill set utilizing evidence-based examination, diagnosis and intervention strategies to manage both primary and secondary disorders in this region. This course will combine an efficient examination process with evidence based screening principles in order to identify and sequence a custom treatment plan tailored to the dysfunction. Hands on lab sessions will further facilitate proper examination and treatment interventions involving evidence based special testing, manual therapy and exercise prescription. Finally, case scenarios will be incorporated to pair clinical reasoning to situations that are encountered in the clinical setting.

Course Objectives

Perform an evidence based exam utilizing special testing procedures to identify primary and secondary dysfunctions in the upper quadrant.
Identify and differentiate clinical examination techniques that are used for ruling in v. ruling out neuromuscuolskeletal dysfunction.
Identify pain referral patterns common to both musculoskeletal dysfunction and co-morbidities in the upper quadrant
Demonstrate appropriate manual therapy techniques to the upper quadrant to enhance treatment effects.
Identify appropriate evidence based treatment techniques for upper quadrant dysfunction.

Workshop Agenda

Day 1

8:00	Continental breakfast and registration
8:30	Anatomy of the Cervical spine, thoracic spine and upper ribs
10:15	Break
10:30	Biomechanics of the Cervical spine, thoracic spine and upper ribs
11:00	Components and rationale for the upper quarter screen (w/ demonstration) - Ruling in v. ruling out - Ruling in v. ruling out
12:00	Lunch (ON YOUR OWN)
1:00	Lab: upper quarter screen
1:45	Introduction to the examination sequence for the upper quadrant: incorporating the upper quarter screen. - Case Study
2:15	Performing the examination: Cervico-thoracic spine - Demonstration - Lab
3:15	Break
3:30	Common pathologies of the cervico-thoracic spine and their management
4:45	Manual Therapy techniques of the cervico-thoracic spine and upper ribs
5:30	Adjourn

Day 2

8:00	Case Studies: Cervico-thoracic spine examination
8:30	Shoulder Complex anatomy and biomechanics
10:15	Break
10:30	Shoulder Complex anatomy and biomechanics (cont.)
11:00	Performing the examination sequence: Shoulder Complex - Demonstration - Lab
12:00	Lunch (ON YOUR OWN)
1:00	Examination sequence: Shoulder Complex (cont) - Lab - Case Study
1:45	Common pathologies of the shoulder Complex and their management
2:30	Break
2:45	Common pathologies of the shoulder Complex and their management (cont.)
3:30	Lab: Manual Therapy of the Shoulder Complex
4:30	Putting it together: Clinical examination through comprehensive Case Studies.
5:00	Adjourn

Faculty

Chris Fiander PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS is a clinician, researcher, author and educator within the Duke University Health System who currently serves as an active instructor within Duke University?s Doctorate of Physical Therapy program with teaching responsibilities in manual therapy, musculoskeletal evaluation, differential diagnosis, clinical reasoning and treatment. Additionally, he is an adjunct faculty member in Duke?s manual therapy fellowship program. Chris earned a Master of Physical Therapy Degree from Boston University Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences and the Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree from Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions. He is a board certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist through the American Physical Therapy Association. His clinical practice focuses on rehabilitation of the shoulder, spine and hip with special interests in manual therapy, functional training and pain management. Chris has contributed to multiple manual therapy texts and is an active reviewer for the Journal of Manual and Manipulative Therapy. He combines an eclectic clinical approach with academic experience in applying evidence based principles to the examination and management of musculoskeletal dysfunction.

Educational Credit

A certificate of attendance for 15 Contact Hours will be awarded to each participant. All Therapy Network Seminars are pre-approved for CEUs in the state where the course is conducted when required for PT, OT, ATC & Assistants.
BOC Board of Certification, Inc. Approved Provider # P-2563
AOTA Approved Provider of Continuing Education # 3073
The assignment of AOTA CEUs does not imply endorsements of specific course content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA
NSCA Approved for 15 CEUs

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