Breathing and the Diaphragm: Pelvic and Orthopedic Therapists

“Despite decades of research Breathing Pattern Disorders, together with a range of the resulting pathophysiological biochemical, psychological and biomechanical effects, remain commonly under-recognized by health care professionals as contributing to pain, fatigue and dysfunction in general and lumbopelvic pain and dysfunction”- Leon Chaitow

This two-and-a-half day continuing education course is designed to expand the participants knowledge of the diaphragm and breathing mechanics and their relationship with the pelvic floor. Through multiple lectures and detailed labs, participants will learn how the diaphragm and breathing can affect core and postural stability through intra-abdominal pressure changes. As an integrated approach, the course looks at structures from the glottis and the cervical region to the pelvic floor and helps in understanding a multi component system that works together.

Optimal function of the diaphragm and correct breathing patterns are key to a healthy pelvic floor, a normal functioning core and postural stability. Evidence-based methods to assess the diaphragm and breath mechanics are presented along with easy to apply practical intervention strategies. This course includes assessment and treatment of barriers by addressing thoracic spine articulation and rib cage abnormalities, and the abnormalities in the fascial system of muscles related to breathing and the diaphragm. Both internal and external pelvic floor assessment and treatment techniques are taught during the course, however, the primary concepts instructed are designed to be used even where internal evaluation of the pelvic floor is not possible. The assessment concepts and treatment techniques can be easily integrated into a therapist's current evaluation and intervention strategies. Sufficient lab time is built into the class to allow the participant to practice the material that is demonstrated.

The course information is applicable to the patient who presents with pelvic pain, incontinence, prolapse, Diastasis Rectus Abdominis, GI Dysfunction, cervical/ thoracic/ scapular/ and lumbar pain. In addition, current literature has shown that these breath and diaphragm training techniques can effectively improve athletic performance in runners, throwers, swimmers, weight lifters, and Cross Fit athletes by improving motor control patterns.

NOTE: There are two versions of this course. This edition is designed for therapists with experience in intravaginal examination, and it includes an extra 90 minute lab at the end of day two. Therapists without experience with intravaginal examinations can attend the Breathing and the Diaphragm: Orthopedic Therapists version of the course, which does not have prerequisites.

Target Audience: This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, and other rehabilitation professionals. Content is not intended for use outside the scope of the learner's license or regulation. Physical therapy continuing education courses should not be taken by individuals who are not licensed or otherwise regulated, except, as they are involved in a specific plan of care.

Prerequisites: It is required that the participants have a working experience with evaluating and treating pelvic patients inclusive of vaginal examination. It is required that the participants have taken Pelvic Floor Level 1, through Herman & Wallace or Pelvic PT 1 through the APTA.

What to Bring:

• Theraband blue (a fairly long length)
• Goniometers

Special Considerations: As this continuing education course includes lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Participants need to bring a goniometer, a mobilization wedge, and some medium resistance theraband.