Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
The postpartum woman may be one of the most overlooked clients in health care. Knowing the specific rehabilitation needs to help with common problems and to prevent future problems is the goal of this 2-day beginner level course. For the orthopedic-based practitioner, this course will solidify awareness of common orthopedic needs for the postpartum client. For the non-orthopedic practitioner, this course will provide a foundation for working with the client experiencing common postpartum-related musculoskeletal conditions. The course will open with brief case scenarios that highlight the difference between examination/evaluation in the postpartum vs. non-postpartum population. Labor and birth,birth complication and injuries, postpartum stages and concerns, and Cesarean birth all set the stage for the postpartum client and will be reviewed. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic recovery and return to “normal” during postpartum will be provided, including early postpartum changes in the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
This course will cover examination considerations and modifications specific to postpartum, as well as specific questions to ask during history taking and methods for identifying red flags in postpartum. More comfortable positions during the examination/treatment and common posture/gait/balance changes during postpartum are covered. The participant at this course will understand necessary biomechanics training for daily activities, child care, and breastfeeding. As an expansion from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, participants will be taken through progression in diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) assessment and rehabilitation, including DRA exercises in lecture and lab. Additionally, addressing abdominal wall lengthening and Cesarean scars will be discussed and practiced in lab.
Overview of pelvic floor dysfunction in the postpartum after vaginal birth with external examination techniques will be expanded from the techniques taught during the pregnancy course. Basic bladder and bowel instructions/education for the postpartum client will be provided, along with guidance on when to refer to a pelvic physical therapist. As an advancement from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, progression in assessment and cueing of pelvic floor, transverse abdominis, and multifidus (deep core) muscle activity will be covered in lecture and lab. Lecture and lab will also address assessing and treating abdominal wall trigger points. Providing instruction and treatment in functional use of abdominal muscles with motor control and functional activities and progression of DRA/abdominal wall rehabilitation exercises will be incorporated into lecture and lab activities.
Basic orthopedic focus on common thoracic and cervical/head complaints in the postpartum will be explored during lecture and lab. This course will also briefly review breathing techniques covered during the pregnancy course. Additionally, discussion and lab practice of lumbar and pelvic girdle examination and treatment techniques in the postpartum will expand on topics covered during the pregnancy rehabilitation course. Review and lab practice will be provided for basic examination and treatment of lower and upper extremity birth and labor injuries.
Psychosocial considerations during postpartum will be explored: the “typical” postpartum patient; postpartum depression, anxiety, and psychosis; postpartum recovery after bedrest; collision of reality and expectations; and maternity leave and return to work decisions. Postpartum exercise, fitness, and wellness will ponder the topics of body image and return to fitness and starting exercise in the postpartum. The course concludes with discussion of marketing and billing needs for providing care for the postpartum population.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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: None
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Gutke, A., Ostgaard, H. C., & Oberg, B. (2006) Pelvic girdle pain and lumbar pain in pregnancy: a cohort study of the consequences in terms of health and functioning. Spine, 31(5), E149-E155. Ostgaard, H. C., Anderson, G. B. J., & Karlson, K. (1991). Prevalence of back pain in pregnancy: A review. Spine, 16(5), 549-552.
Day One: 7:30 Registration 8:00 Introduction, Goals, and Objectives 8:15 Overview of the Postpartum Client 9:00 Hormonal and System Changes and Recovery During Postpartum 9:45 Break 10:00 Abdominal Wall: Diastasis Rectus Abdominis and Post-Cesarean 11:00 LAB: Abdominal Wall Assessment and Scar Treatment 12:00 Lunch 1:00 General Examination Considerations for the Postpartum Client 1:30 General Treatment Considerations for the Postpartum Client 2:15 Pelvic Floor Postpartum 3:15 Break 3:30 LAB: Deep Core and DRA Rehabilitation Progression 4:45 Upper and Lower Quarter Concerns in the Postpartum 5:30 Day 1 Post Test and Wrap Up 6:00 Adjourn
Day Two: 8:00 Examination and Evaluation of Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle in the Postpartum 9:00 LAB: Lumbar Spine and Review of Pelvic Girdle Testing and Treatment 10:00 Break 10:15 Examination, Evaluation, and Treatment of Cervical and Thoracic Spine in the Postpartum Client 11:00 LAB: Cervical and Thoracic Spine Examination and Treatment in the Postpartum Client 11:45 Lunch 12:30 Psychosocial Considerations During Postpartum 1:30 Postpartum Exercise and Fitness 2.06 2:30 Interactive Case Studies 3:15 Marketing and Billing 3:45 Day 2 Post Test and Wrap Up 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Define common terminology of the labor and delivery and the postpartum period. 2. Describe the physiologic changes in the postpartum period that assist a woman's body in returning to pre-pregnancy state. 3. List the endocrine system changes, including the risk for thyroid dysfunction, that influence the female patient during the postpartum period. 4. Define the stages of labor, common complications of labor and delivery, and the postpartum red flags. 5. Describe common clinical presentations for perineal trauma and pelvic floor dysfunction. 6. List indications and potential complications of c-section deliveries, as well as principles of c-section recovery. 7. List 2 common conditions and recommended treatment for the spine and trunk, abdomen, pelvic floor, pelvic girdle, upper and lower extremities during the postpartum period. 8. Instruct the postpartum patient in safe return to fitness activities. 9. Describe the challenges that new mothers face and instruct in practical strategies for body mechanics, sleep hygiene, and time management for postpartum recovery. 10. Complete medical screening for conditions in postpartum that require referral.
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
The postpartum woman may be one of the most overlooked clients in health care. Knowing the specific rehabilitation needs to help with common problems and to prevent future problems is the goal of this 2-day beginner level course. For the orthopedic-based practitioner, this course will solidify awareness of common orthopedic needs for the postpartum client. For the non-orthopedic practitioner, this course will provide a foundation for working with the client experiencing common postpartum-related musculoskeletal conditions. The course will open with brief case scenarios that highlight the difference between examination/evaluation in the postpartum vs. non-postpartum population. Labor and birth,birth complication and injuries, postpartum stages and concerns, and Cesarean birth all set the stage for the postpartum client and will be reviewed. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic recovery and return to “normal” during postpartum will be provided, including early postpartum changes in the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
This course will cover examination considerations and modifications specific to postpartum, as well as specific questions to ask during history taking and methods for identifying red flags in postpartum. More comfortable positions during the examination/treatment and common posture/gait/balance changes during postpartum are covered. The participant at this course will understand necessary biomechanics training for daily activities, child care, and breastfeeding. As an expansion from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, participants will be taken through progression in diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) assessment and rehabilitation, including DRA exercises in lecture and lab. Additionally, addressing abdominal wall lengthening and Cesarean scars will be discussed and practiced in lab.
Overview of pelvic floor dysfunction in the postpartum after vaginal birth with external examination techniques will be expanded from the techniques taught during the pregnancy course. Basic bladder and bowel instructions/education for the postpartum client will be provided, along with guidance on when to refer to a pelvic physical therapist. As an advancement from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, progression in assessment and cueing of pelvic floor, transverse abdominis, and multifidus (deep core) muscle activity will be covered in lecture and lab. Lecture and lab will also address assessing and treating abdominal wall trigger points. Providing instruction and treatment in functional use of abdominal muscles with motor control and functional activities and progression of DRA/abdominal wall rehabilitation exercises will be incorporated into lecture and lab activities.
Basic orthopedic focus on common thoracic and cervical/head complaints in the postpartum will be explored during lecture and lab. This course will also briefly review breathing techniques covered during the pregnancy course. Additionally, discussion and lab practice of lumbar and pelvic girdle examination and treatment techniques in the postpartum will expand on topics covered during the pregnancy rehabilitation course. Review and lab practice will be provided for basic examination and treatment of lower and upper extremity birth and labor injuries.
Psychosocial considerations during postpartum will be explored: the “typical” postpartum patient; postpartum depression, anxiety, and psychosis; postpartum recovery after bedrest; collision of reality and expectations; and maternity leave and return to work decisions. Postpartum exercise, fitness, and wellness will ponder the topics of body image and return to fitness and starting exercise in the postpartum. The course concludes with discussion of marketing and billing needs for providing care for the postpartum population.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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: None
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Gutke, A., Ostgaard, H. C., & Oberg, B. (2006) Pelvic girdle pain and lumbar pain in pregnancy: a cohort study of the consequences in terms of health and functioning. Spine, 31(5), E149-E155. Ostgaard, H. C., Anderson, G. B. J., & Karlson, K. (1991). Prevalence of back pain in pregnancy: A review. Spine, 16(5), 549-552.
Day One: 7:30 Registration 8:00 Introduction, Goals, and Objectives 8:15 Overview of the Postpartum Client 9:00 Hormonal and System Changes and Recovery During Postpartum 9:45 Break 10:00 Abdominal Wall: Diastasis Rectus Abdominis and Post-Cesarean 11:00 LAB: Abdominal Wall Assessment and Scar Treatment 12:00 Lunch 1:00 General Examination Considerations for the Postpartum Client 1:30 General Treatment Considerations for the Postpartum Client 2:15 Pelvic Floor Postpartum 3:15 Break 3:30 LAB: Deep Core and DRA Rehabilitation Progression 4:45 Upper and Lower Quarter Concerns in the Postpartum 5:30 Day 1 Post Test and Wrap Up 6:00 Adjourn
Day Two: 8:00 Examination and Evaluation of Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle in the Postpartum 9:00 LAB: Lumbar Spine and Review of Pelvic Girdle Testing and Treatment 10:00 Break 10:15 Examination, Evaluation, and Treatment of Cervical and Thoracic Spine in the Postpartum Client 11:00 LAB: Cervical and Thoracic Spine Examination and Treatment in the Postpartum Client 11:45 Lunch 12:30 Psychosocial Considerations During Postpartum 1:30 Postpartum Exercise and Fitness 2.06 2:30 Interactive Case Studies 3:15 Marketing and Billing 3:45 Day 2 Post Test and Wrap Up 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Define common terminology of the labor and delivery and the postpartum period. 2. Describe the physiologic changes in the postpartum period that assist a woman's body in returning to pre-pregnancy state. 3. List the endocrine system changes, including the risk for thyroid dysfunction, that influence the female patient during the postpartum period. 4. Define the stages of labor, common complications of labor and delivery, and the postpartum red flags. 5. Describe common clinical presentations for perineal trauma and pelvic floor dysfunction. 6. List indications and potential complications of c-section deliveries, as well as principles of c-section recovery. 7. List 2 common conditions and recommended treatment for the spine and trunk, abdomen, pelvic floor, pelvic girdle, upper and lower extremities during the postpartum period. 8. Instruct the postpartum patient in safe return to fitness activities. 9. Describe the challenges that new mothers face and instruct in practical strategies for body mechanics, sleep hygiene, and time management for postpartum recovery. 10. Complete medical screening for conditions in postpartum that require referral.
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
The postpartum woman may be one of the most overlooked clients in health care. Knowing the specific rehabilitation needs to help with common problems and to prevent future problems is the goal of this 2-day beginner level course. For the orthopedic-based practitioner, this course will solidify awareness of common orthopedic needs for the postpartum client. For the non-orthopedic practitioner, this course will provide a foundation for working with the client experiencing common postpartum-related musculoskeletal conditions. The course will open with brief case scenarios that highlight the difference between examination/evaluation in the postpartum vs. non-postpartum population. Labor and birth,birth complication and injuries, postpartum stages and concerns, and Cesarean birth all set the stage for the postpartum client and will be reviewed. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic recovery and return to “normal” during postpartum will be provided, including early postpartum changes in the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
This course will cover examination considerations and modifications specific to postpartum, as well as specific questions to ask during history taking and methods for identifying red flags in postpartum. More comfortable positions during the examination/treatment and common posture/gait/balance changes during postpartum are covered. The participant at this course will understand necessary biomechanics training for daily activities, child care, and breastfeeding. As an expansion from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, participants will be taken through progression in diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) assessment and rehabilitation, including DRA exercises in lecture and lab. Additionally, addressing abdominal wall lengthening and Cesarean scars will be discussed and practiced in lab.
Overview of pelvic floor dysfunction in the postpartum after vaginal birth with external examination techniques will be expanded from the techniques taught during the pregnancy course. Basic bladder and bowel instructions/education for the postpartum client will be provided, along with guidance on when to refer to a pelvic physical therapist. As an advancement from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, progression in assessment and cueing of pelvic floor, transverse abdominis, and multifidus (deep core) muscle activity will be covered in lecture and lab. Lecture and lab will also address assessing and treating abdominal wall trigger points. Providing instruction and treatment in functional use of abdominal muscles with motor control and functional activities and progression of DRA/abdominal wall rehabilitation exercises will be incorporated into lecture and lab activities.
Basic orthopedic focus on common thoracic and cervical/head complaints in the postpartum will be explored during lecture and lab. This course will also briefly review breathing techniques covered during the pregnancy course. Additionally, discussion and lab practice of lumbar and pelvic girdle examination and treatment techniques in the postpartum will expand on topics covered during the pregnancy rehabilitation course. Review and lab practice will be provided for basic examination and treatment of lower and upper extremity birth and labor injuries.
Psychosocial considerations during postpartum will be explored: the “typical” postpartum patient; postpartum depression, anxiety, and psychosis; postpartum recovery after bedrest; collision of reality and expectations; and maternity leave and return to work decisions. Postpartum exercise, fitness, and wellness will ponder the topics of body image and return to fitness and starting exercise in the postpartum. The course concludes with discussion of marketing and billing needs for providing care for the postpartum population.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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: None
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Gutke, A., Ostgaard, H. C., & Oberg, B. (2006) Pelvic girdle pain and lumbar pain in pregnancy: a cohort study of the consequences in terms of health and functioning. Spine, 31(5), E149-E155. Ostgaard, H. C., Anderson, G. B. J., & Karlson, K. (1991). Prevalence of back pain in pregnancy: A review. Spine, 16(5), 549-552.
Day One: 7:30 Registration 8:00 Introduction, Goals, and Objectives 8:15 Overview of the Postpartum Client 9:00 Hormonal and System Changes and Recovery During Postpartum 9:45 Break 10:00 Abdominal Wall: Diastasis Rectus Abdominis and Post-Cesarean 11:00 LAB: Abdominal Wall Assessment and Scar Treatment 12:00 Lunch 1:00 General Examination Considerations for the Postpartum Client 1:30 General Treatment Considerations for the Postpartum Client 2:15 Pelvic Floor Postpartum 3:15 Break 3:30 LAB: Deep Core and DRA Rehabilitation Progression 4:45 Upper and Lower Quarter Concerns in the Postpartum 5:30 Day 1 Post Test and Wrap Up 6:00 Adjourn
Day Two: 8:00 Examination and Evaluation of Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle in the Postpartum 9:00 LAB: Lumbar Spine and Review of Pelvic Girdle Testing and Treatment 10:00 Break 10:15 Examination, Evaluation, and Treatment of Cervical and Thoracic Spine in the Postpartum Client 11:00 LAB: Cervical and Thoracic Spine Examination and Treatment in the Postpartum Client 11:45 Lunch 12:30 Psychosocial Considerations During Postpartum 1:30 Postpartum Exercise and Fitness 2.06 2:30 Interactive Case Studies 3:15 Marketing and Billing 3:45 Day 2 Post Test and Wrap Up 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Define common terminology of the labor and delivery and the postpartum period. 2. Describe the physiologic changes in the postpartum period that assist a woman's body in returning to pre-pregnancy state. 3. List the endocrine system changes, including the risk for thyroid dysfunction, that influence the female patient during the postpartum period. 4. Define the stages of labor, common complications of labor and delivery, and the postpartum red flags. 5. Describe common clinical presentations for perineal trauma and pelvic floor dysfunction. 6. List indications and potential complications of c-section deliveries, as well as principles of c-section recovery. 7. List 2 common conditions and recommended treatment for the spine and trunk, abdomen, pelvic floor, pelvic girdle, upper and lower extremities during the postpartum period. 8. Instruct the postpartum patient in safe return to fitness activities. 9. Describe the challenges that new mothers face and instruct in practical strategies for body mechanics, sleep hygiene, and time management for postpartum recovery. 10. Complete medical screening for conditions in postpartum that require referral.
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
Evaluating and treating a patient during pregnancy can be daunting. Questions about safety and efficacy of evaluation and intervention arise, and most rehabilitation providers do not feel well prepared in working with patients who are pregnant. In a survey of therapists who were members of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Section on Women's Health (SOWH), Krum & Smith (2005) found that "A majority of respondents...had received minimal academic education specific to women's health issues." (p. 31)
This 2-day, beginner-level continuing education course provides a foundation in education specific to caring for the patient during pregnancy. Foundational to diagnosis of the musculoskeletal issues present in the peripartum period is an understand of the amazing changes that occur in the body, and the potential risks and benefits of evaluation and intervention techniques. These physical changes are driven by significant hormonal shifts. Hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, relaxin, oxytocin, and prolactin are discussed, and the effects of these and other hormones, some that are present only during pregnancy, are presented. An understanding of typical hormonal effects can allow a therapist to answer a patient's questions and to provide reassurance about the changes that are experienced during pregnancy or the gestational period.
Some of the musculoskeletal changes and approaches to rehabilitation are like those in the non-pregnant population, yet the potential for risks from interventions such as manual therapies, modalities, and exercise approaches must be understood in order to proceed safely with care of the pregnant patient. Participants will learn about contraindications for modalities such as US, TENS, and the applications of specific exercises within safe postures throughout the gestational period.
Despite the often-held belief that exercise during pregnancy is unsafe, moderate to vigorous exercise (for the patient who is not high-risk) offers many health benefits towards depression, maternal self-image, weight gain, and even offers benefit to the developing child. (Clapp, 2002) The participant will learn about these benefits, exercise recommendations, as well as guidelines from organizations such as the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. For conditions that are specific to the peripartum period, such as pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain or diastasis recti abdominis (a separation of the rectus abdominis at the midline that can occur in more than half of women according to Boissonnault and Blaschak, (1998) and Spitznagle and colleagues (2007)), this continuing education course instructs in risk factors, clinical diagnostic tests, and interventions including use of pregnancy-support belts and braces.
With higher instances of carrying multiples and an increase in high-risk pregnancies, therapists must be familiar with medical screening for the pregnant population. In this course, therapists learn to screen for conditions including thyroid dysfunction, deep vein thrombosis, and pregnancy-related hypertension. Course instructors will also answer your questions about billing and reimbursement for this special population, marketing and the language of obstetrics, special tests during the pregnancy period such as amniocentesis, and preparing the patient for labor and delivery.
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Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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: None
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Boissonnault, J. S., & Blaschak, M. J. (1988). Incidence of diastasis recti abdominis during the childbearing year. Physical Therapy, 68(7), 1082-1086. Clapp, J. F. I. (2002). Exercising through your pregnancy. Omaha, Nebraska: Addicus Books, Inc. Krum, L., & Smith, S. (2005) Educating physical therapists in women's health: recommendations for professional (entry-level) and post-professional curricula. Journal of Physical Therapy Education. 19(2), 31-41. Spitznagle, T., Leong, F., & Van Dillen, L. (2007). Prevalence of diastasis recti abdominis in a urogynecological patient population. International Urogynecology Journal & Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, 18(3), 321-328.
Day One: 7:30 Registration 8:00 Introduction, goals, and objectives 8:15 Overview of the Pregnant Client 9:15 Hormonal and System Changes During Pregnancy 10:30 Break 10:45 General Examination Considerations and Modifications for the Pregnant Client 11:30 General Treatment Considerations and Modifications for the Pregnant Client 12:15 Lunch 1:15 Examination and Evaluation for Lumbar and Pelvic Girdle Pain During Pregnancy 2:15 LAB: Examination and Special Testing for Lumbar and Pelvic Girdle Pain During Pregnancy 3:15 Break 3:30 Introduction to Core Concepts, Diastasis Rectus Abdominis, and Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction 4:30 LAB: Introduction to the Core, Diastasis Rectus Abdominis, Breathing, and Deep Core Assessment and Treatment 5:30 Day 1 Post Test and Wrap Up 6:00 Adjourn
Day Two: 8:00 Treatment Strategies and Techniques for Spine and Pelvic Girdle During Pregnancy 9:00 LAB:Treatment Techniques for Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle 10:00 Break 10:15 Preparing for Labor and Birth 11:15 LAB: Birthing Position Strategies for Women with Musculoskeletal Problems 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Introduction to High Risk Pregnancy 2:00 Fitness and Exercise During Pregnancy 3:00 Marketing and Billing 3:30 Day 2 Post Test and Wrap Up 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Understand common definitions and medical testing used in obstetrics. 2. Avoid all contraindications for evaluation and treatment of the pregnant patient. 3. List 3 major hormones and how each affects the musculoskeletal system during pregnancy. 4. Describe the pregnancy-related physiologic changes in the cardiorespiratory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary, reproductive, immune and musculoskeletal systems during pregnancy. 5. List 2 common conditions that occur in pregnancy for the spine and trunk, abdomen, pelvic floor, pelvic girdle, upper and lower extremities. 6. Instruct in safe exercises and activities for the low-risk and high-risk patient. 7. Educate the patient in methods to prepare physically for birth. 8. Complete medical screening for referral for the pregnant patient. 9. Apply and utilize surface EMG with external sensors for pelvic floor muscles. 10. Market a program of physical therapy care for the pregnant patient.
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
Update 3/16/2020: As a precaution against the spread of COVID-19, this course has been postponed. This course is now taking place on June 5-7, 2020. We appreciate your understanding during this difficult time. Please practice good hygiene, and be safe!
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Description
Schedule
Objectives
Location/Lodging
Instructors
Discounts
Price:$695 ($725 within one month of the course) Experience Level: Beginner
This continuing education course is comprised of 9 hours of prerecorded lectures followed by two-days of in-person learning, and was designed to provide a thorough introduction to female pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. It is geared to the physical therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination and SEMG biofeedback assessment. The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, SEMG biofeedback, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat.
Special Considerations: As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
The Herman & Wallace Institute welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Being born with a vagina and other female anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other one participant during labs.
Vaginal examination and internal myofascial manual therapy prior to 32 weeks gestation is not the common standard of medical practice. Participants who are pregnant who wish to participate fully in the entire course including in lab must bring a clearance letter from their physician allowing them to participate in the labs is required. Participants who are pregnant also have the option of bringing their own lab model for examination, or they have the option of working in a group of three during lab times.
This course instructs in the use of biofeedback equipment. Equipment at the course will be supplied by our biofeedback vendor, Current Medical Technologies. If you would like to contact them prior to the course to inquire about equipment purchases, you can do so using this link. A representative will be able to assist you if you tell them which Herman & Wallace course you will be taking.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Assignments
In order to derive the most benefit from this course, we ask our participants to internalize the required reading materials and complete a diary assignment prior to attending. Please complete this assignment prior to the first day of the seminar. We ask that participants keep a personal bladder diary measuring and recording fluid intake and urine output for two days - one work day and one non-work day. Specific measurements (use a large measuring cup or urine collection “hat”) of urine output are needed for at least one day, and on the following day one can estimate by counting seconds while voiding.
7:30 Questions, Post-test Day 2 7:45 Pelvic Organ Prolapse 8:45 Lab 6: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:45 Break 10:00 Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 11:15 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 1:45 Final Lab Preparation 2:00 Lab 7: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 3:15 Break 3:30 Case Studies 4:00 Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 4:15 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Amanda Hayes-Fugate, MPT
Amanda Hayes Fugate MPT is a pelvic health physical therapist specializing in urinary, bowel and pain conditions for men and women. She went to Western Carolina University in 2007 with the unique goal of being a pelvic health therapist and even won a national scholarship because of her passion in this area. Upon graduation she created a pelvic health program, from the ground up, for a outpatient physical therapy practice in the Asheville, NC area. She has continued to expand her expertise over the past 10 years and has recently started her own pelvic health practice Pelvic Forward PT to provide more comprehensive and patient directed care in the changing medical climate. Using her unique perspective as a lifelong runner and athlete, Amanda has a made treating athletes with pelvic floor dysfunction, pain, or desires for optimal performance a cornerstone of her practice.
She has built her business on the core values of education, embodiment and empowerment for all. As an tireless educator and in her goal to start a global conversation around pelvic health, Amanda has been involved with many community-based education programs, including lectures and demonstrations to crossfit gyms, the YMCA and pilates studios, providing instructor trainings to DONA, REI, pre-postpartum support groups, and many more.
Amanda truly loves and is interested in all things pelvic and is so grateful to have joined the Herman and Wallace team. Outside of the clinic she loves all things food, outdoors and spending time with family.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Price:$695 ($725 within one month of the course) Experience Level: Beginner
This continuing education course is comprised of 9 hours of prerecorded lectures followed by two-days of in-person learning, and was designed to provide a thorough introduction to female pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. It is geared to the physical therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination and SEMG biofeedback assessment. The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, SEMG biofeedback, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat.
Special Considerations: As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
The Herman & Wallace Institute welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Being born with a vagina and other female anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other one participant during labs.
Vaginal examination and internal myofascial manual therapy prior to 32 weeks gestation is not the common standard of medical practice. Participants who are pregnant who wish to participate fully in the entire course including in lab must bring a clearance letter from their physician allowing them to participate in the labs is required. Participants who are pregnant also have the option of bringing their own lab model for examination, or they have the option of working in a group of three during lab times.
This course instructs in the use of biofeedback equipment. Equipment at the course will be supplied by our biofeedback vendor, Current Medical Technologies. If you would like to contact them prior to the course to inquire about equipment purchases, you can do so using this link. A representative will be able to assist you if you tell them which Herman & Wallace course you will be taking.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Assignments
In order to derive the most benefit from this course, we ask our participants to internalize the required reading materials and complete a diary assignment prior to attending. Please complete this assignment prior to the first day of the seminar. We ask that participants keep a personal bladder diary measuring and recording fluid intake and urine output for two days - one work day and one non-work day. Specific measurements (use a large measuring cup or urine collection “hat”) of urine output are needed for at least one day, and on the following day one can estimate by counting seconds while voiding.
7:30 Questions, Post-test Day 2 7:45 Pelvic Organ Prolapse 8:45 Lab 6: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:45 Break 10:00 Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 11:15 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 1:45 Final Lab Preparation 2:00 Lab 7: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 3:15 Break 3:30 Case Studies 4:00 Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 4:15 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Amanda Hayes-Fugate, MPT
Amanda Hayes Fugate MPT is a pelvic health physical therapist specializing in urinary, bowel and pain conditions for men and women. She went to Western Carolina University in 2007 with the unique goal of being a pelvic health therapist and even won a national scholarship because of her passion in this area. Upon graduation she created a pelvic health program, from the ground up, for a outpatient physical therapy practice in the Asheville, NC area. She has continued to expand her expertise over the past 10 years and has recently started her own pelvic health practice Pelvic Forward PT to provide more comprehensive and patient directed care in the changing medical climate. Using her unique perspective as a lifelong runner and athlete, Amanda has a made treating athletes with pelvic floor dysfunction, pain, or desires for optimal performance a cornerstone of her practice.
She has built her business on the core values of education, embodiment and empowerment for all. As an tireless educator and in her goal to start a global conversation around pelvic health, Amanda has been involved with many community-based education programs, including lectures and demonstrations to crossfit gyms, the YMCA and pilates studios, providing instructor trainings to DONA, REI, pre-postpartum support groups, and many more.
Amanda truly loves and is interested in all things pelvic and is so grateful to have joined the Herman and Wallace team. Outside of the clinic she loves all things food, outdoors and spending time with family.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Price:$695 ($725 within one month of the course) Experience Level: Beginner
This continuing education course is comprised of 9 hours of prerecorded lectures followed by two-days of in-person learning, and was designed to provide a thorough introduction to female pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. It is geared to the physical therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination and SEMG biofeedback assessment. The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, SEMG biofeedback, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat.
Special Considerations: As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
The Herman & Wallace Institute welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Being born with a vagina and other female anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other one participant during labs.
Vaginal examination and internal myofascial manual therapy prior to 32 weeks gestation is not the common standard of medical practice. Participants who are pregnant who wish to participate fully in the entire course including in lab must bring a clearance letter from their physician allowing them to participate in the labs is required. Participants who are pregnant also have the option of bringing their own lab model for examination, or they have the option of working in a group of three during lab times.
This course instructs in the use of biofeedback equipment. Equipment at the course will be supplied by our biofeedback vendor, Current Medical Technologies. If you would like to contact them prior to the course to inquire about equipment purchases, you can do so using this link. A representative will be able to assist you if you tell them which Herman & Wallace course you will be taking.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Assignments
In order to derive the most benefit from this course, we ask our participants to internalize the required reading materials and complete a diary assignment prior to attending. Please complete this assignment prior to the first day of the seminar. We ask that participants keep a personal bladder diary measuring and recording fluid intake and urine output for two days - one work day and one non-work day. Specific measurements (use a large measuring cup or urine collection “hat”) of urine output are needed for at least one day, and on the following day one can estimate by counting seconds while voiding.
7:30 Questions, Post-test Day 2 7:45 Pelvic Organ Prolapse 8:45 Lab 6: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:45 Break 10:00 Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 11:15 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 1:45 Final Lab Preparation 2:00 Lab 7: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 3:15 Break 3:30 Case Studies 4:00 Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 4:15 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Amanda Hayes-Fugate, MPT
Amanda Hayes Fugate MPT is a pelvic health physical therapist specializing in urinary, bowel and pain conditions for men and women. She went to Western Carolina University in 2007 with the unique goal of being a pelvic health therapist and even won a national scholarship because of her passion in this area. Upon graduation she created a pelvic health program, from the ground up, for a outpatient physical therapy practice in the Asheville, NC area. She has continued to expand her expertise over the past 10 years and has recently started her own pelvic health practice Pelvic Forward PT to provide more comprehensive and patient directed care in the changing medical climate. Using her unique perspective as a lifelong runner and athlete, Amanda has a made treating athletes with pelvic floor dysfunction, pain, or desires for optimal performance a cornerstone of her practice.
She has built her business on the core values of education, embodiment and empowerment for all. As an tireless educator and in her goal to start a global conversation around pelvic health, Amanda has been involved with many community-based education programs, including lectures and demonstrations to crossfit gyms, the YMCA and pilates studios, providing instructor trainings to DONA, REI, pre-postpartum support groups, and many more.
Amanda truly loves and is interested in all things pelvic and is so grateful to have joined the Herman and Wallace team. Outside of the clinic she loves all things food, outdoors and spending time with family.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Pelvic Floor Level 1 - Fayetteville, AR - May 1-3, 2020(Rescheduled)
Update 04/08/2020: As a precaution against the spread of COVID-19, this course has been postponed. Once we have a new date confirmed, we will update our website and make the event available for registration. We appreciate your understanding during this difficult time. Please practice good hygiene, and be safe!
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Description
Schedule
Objectives
Location/Lodging
Instructors
Discounts
Price:$695 ($725 within one month of the course) Experience Level: Beginner
This continuing education course is comprised of 9 hours of prerecorded lectures followed by two-days of in-person learning, and was designed to provide a thorough introduction to female pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. It is geared to the physical therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination and SEMG biofeedback assessment. The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, SEMG biofeedback, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat.
Special Considerations: As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
The Herman & Wallace Institute welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Being born with a vagina and other female anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other one participant during labs.
Vaginal examination and internal myofascial manual therapy prior to 32 weeks gestation is not the common standard of medical practice. Participants who are pregnant who wish to participate fully in the entire course including in lab must bring a clearance letter from their physician allowing them to participate in the labs is required. Participants who are pregnant also have the option of bringing their own lab model for examination, or they have the option of working in a group of three during lab times.
This course instructs in the use of biofeedback equipment. Equipment at the course will be supplied by our biofeedback vendor, Current Medical Technologies. If you would like to contact them prior to the course to inquire about equipment purchases, you can do so using this link. A representative will be able to assist you if you tell them which Herman & Wallace course you will be taking.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Assignments
In order to derive the most benefit from this course, we ask our participants to internalize the required reading materials and complete a diary assignment prior to attending. Please complete this assignment prior to the first day of the seminar. We ask that participants keep a personal bladder diary measuring and recording fluid intake and urine output for two days - one work day and one non-work day. Specific measurements (use a large measuring cup or urine collection “hat”) of urine output are needed for at least one day, and on the following day one can estimate by counting seconds while voiding.
7:30 Questions, Post-test Day 2 7:45 Pelvic Organ Prolapse 8:45 Lab 6: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:45 Break 10:00 Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 11:15 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 1:45 Final Lab Preparation 2:00 Lab 7: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 3:15 Break 3:30 Case Studies 4:00 Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 4:15 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Instructors - Cathcart
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Instructors - Reale
Jessica Reale, PT, DPT, WCS
Jessica is a board-certified specialist in Women’s Health (WCS) and is passionate about working with all people with pelvic floor disorders, especially those with chronic pelvic pain, urinary dysfunction and bowel dysfunction. She is a graduate of Gordon College with a B.S. in Kinesiology and of Duke University where she received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Jessica owns and treats patients at Southern Pelvic Health in Atlanta, GA, a specialty pelvic rehabilitation practice.
Jessica is passionate about pelvic health education, and works closely with Holly Tanner in writing and updating Pelvic Floor Level 1, 2A and 2B coursework. She also regularly guest lectures at local university DPT programs, and has presented at conferences, seminars, community groups, and various medical and physical therapy residency programs.
Jessica loves supporting other pelvic rehabilitation providers, and founded the Facebook group, Pelvic PT Newbies, as a place for safe questioning, learning and growth. She also established and runs a professional small group mentoring program several times each year. She also runs an educational blog on pelvic health topics through her website, and is active on social media @southernpelvichealth, spreading awareness of pelvic floor dysfunction and pelvic rehabilitation. Outside of work, Jessica enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 daughters, staying active, and traveling. .
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Pelvic Floor Level 1 - Fayetteville, AR - November 8-10, 2019 (SOLD OUT)
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Description
Schedule
Objectives
Location/Lodging
Instructors
Discounts
Price:$695 ($725 within one month of the course) Experience Level: Beginner
This continuing education course is comprised of 9 hours of prerecorded lectures followed by two-days of in-person learning, and was designed to provide a thorough introduction to female pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. It is geared to the physical therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination and SEMG biofeedback assessment. The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, SEMG biofeedback, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat.
Special Considerations: As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
The Herman & Wallace Institute welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Being born with a vagina and other female anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other one participant during labs.
Vaginal examination and internal myofascial manual therapy prior to 32 weeks gestation is not the common standard of medical practice. Participants who are pregnant who wish to participate fully in the entire course including in lab must bring a clearance letter from their physician allowing them to participate in the labs is required. Participants who are pregnant also have the option of bringing their own lab model for examination, or they have the option of working in a group of three during lab times.
This course instructs in the use of biofeedback equipment. Equipment at the course will be supplied by our biofeedback vendor, Current Medical Technologies. If you would like to contact them prior to the course to inquire about equipment purchases, you can do so using this link. A representative will be able to assist you if you tell them which Herman & Wallace course you will be taking.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Assignments
In order to derive the most benefit from this course, we ask our participants to internalize the required reading materials and complete a diary assignment prior to attending. Please complete this assignment prior to the first day of the seminar. We ask that participants keep a personal bladder diary measuring and recording fluid intake and urine output for two days - one work day and one non-work day. Specific measurements (use a large measuring cup or urine collection “hat”) of urine output are needed for at least one day, and on the following day one can estimate by counting seconds while voiding.
7:30 Questions, Post-test Day 2 7:45 Pelvic Organ Prolapse 8:45 Lab 6: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:45 Break 10:00 Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 11:15 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 1:45 Final Lab Preparation 2:00 Lab 7: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 3:15 Break 3:30 Case Studies 4:00 Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 4:15 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Instructors - Cathcart
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Instructors - Reale
Jessica Reale, PT, DPT, WCS
Jessica is a board-certified specialist in Women’s Health (WCS) and is passionate about working with all people with pelvic floor disorders, especially those with chronic pelvic pain, urinary dysfunction and bowel dysfunction. She is a graduate of Gordon College with a B.S. in Kinesiology and of Duke University where she received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Jessica owns and treats patients at Southern Pelvic Health in Atlanta, GA, a specialty pelvic rehabilitation practice.
Jessica is passionate about pelvic health education, and works closely with Holly Tanner in writing and updating Pelvic Floor Level 1, 2A and 2B coursework. She also regularly guest lectures at local university DPT programs, and has presented at conferences, seminars, community groups, and various medical and physical therapy residency programs.
Jessica loves supporting other pelvic rehabilitation providers, and founded the Facebook group, Pelvic PT Newbies, as a place for safe questioning, learning and growth. She also established and runs a professional small group mentoring program several times each year. She also runs an educational blog on pelvic health topics through her website, and is active on social media @southernpelvichealth, spreading awareness of pelvic floor dysfunction and pelvic rehabilitation. Outside of work, Jessica enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 daughters, staying active, and traveling. .
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Price:$695 ($725 within one month of the course) Experience Level: Beginner
This continuing education course is comprised of 9 hours of prerecorded lectures followed by two-days of in-person learning, and was designed to provide a thorough introduction to female pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. It is geared to the physical therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination and SEMG biofeedback assessment. The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, SEMG biofeedback, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat.
Special Considerations: As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
The Herman & Wallace Institute welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Being born with a vagina and other female anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other one participant during labs.
Vaginal examination and internal myofascial manual therapy prior to 32 weeks gestation is not the common standard of medical practice. Participants who are pregnant who wish to participate fully in the entire course including in lab must bring a clearance letter from their physician allowing them to participate in the labs is required. Participants who are pregnant also have the option of bringing their own lab model for examination, or they have the option of working in a group of three during lab times.
This course instructs in the use of biofeedback equipment. Equipment at the course will be supplied by our biofeedback vendor, Current Medical Technologies. If you would like to contact them prior to the course to inquire about equipment purchases, you can do so using this link. A representative will be able to assist you if you tell them which Herman & Wallace course you will be taking.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Assignments
In order to derive the most benefit from this course, we ask our participants to internalize the required reading materials and complete a diary assignment prior to attending. Please complete this assignment prior to the first day of the seminar. We ask that participants keep a personal bladder diary measuring and recording fluid intake and urine output for two days - one work day and one non-work day. Specific measurements (use a large measuring cup or urine collection “hat”) of urine output are needed for at least one day, and on the following day one can estimate by counting seconds while voiding.
7:30 Questions, Post-test Day 2 7:45 Pelvic Organ Prolapse 8:45 Lab 6: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:45 Break 10:00 Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 11:15 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 1:45 Final Lab Preparation 2:00 Lab 7: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 3:15 Break 3:30 Case Studies 4:00 Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 4:15 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location:
Instructors - Cathcart
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Instructors - Reale
Jessica Reale, PT, DPT, WCS
Jessica is a board-certified specialist in Women’s Health (WCS) and is passionate about working with all people with pelvic floor disorders, especially those with chronic pelvic pain, urinary dysfunction and bowel dysfunction. She is a graduate of Gordon College with a B.S. in Kinesiology and of Duke University where she received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Jessica owns and treats patients at Southern Pelvic Health in Atlanta, GA, a specialty pelvic rehabilitation practice.
Jessica is passionate about pelvic health education, and works closely with Holly Tanner in writing and updating Pelvic Floor Level 1, 2A and 2B coursework. She also regularly guest lectures at local university DPT programs, and has presented at conferences, seminars, community groups, and various medical and physical therapy residency programs.
Jessica loves supporting other pelvic rehabilitation providers, and founded the Facebook group, Pelvic PT Newbies, as a place for safe questioning, learning and growth. She also established and runs a professional small group mentoring program several times each year. She also runs an educational blog on pelvic health topics through her website, and is active on social media @southernpelvichealth, spreading awareness of pelvic floor dysfunction and pelvic rehabilitation. Outside of work, Jessica enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 daughters, staying active, and traveling. .
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Pelvic Floor Level 1 - Jonesboro, AR - August 15-16, 2020 (Rescheduled)
Update 6/11/2020: As a precaution against the spread of COVID-19, this course has been postponed. Once we have a new date confirmed, we will update our website and make the event available for registration. We appreciate your understanding during this difficult time. Please practice good hygiene, and be safe!
{dtregister}968{/dtregister}
Description
Schedule
Objectives
Instructor
Location/Lodging
Discounts
Price:$695 ($725 within one month of the course) Experience Level: Beginner
This continuing education course is comprised of 9 hours of prerecorded lectures followed by two-days of in-person learning, and was designed to provide a thorough introduction to female pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. It is geared to the physical therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination and SEMG biofeedback assessment. The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, SEMG biofeedback, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat.
Special Considerations: As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
The Herman & Wallace Institute welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Being born with a vagina and other female anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other one participant during labs.
Vaginal examination and internal myofascial manual therapy prior to 32 weeks gestation is not the common standard of medical practice. Participants who are pregnant who wish to participate fully in the entire course including in lab must bring a clearance letter from their physician allowing them to participate in the labs is required. Participants who are pregnant also have the option of bringing their own lab model for examination, or they have the option of working in a group of three during lab times.
This course instructs in the use of biofeedback equipment. Equipment at the course will be supplied by our biofeedback vendor, Current Medical Technologies. If you would like to contact them prior to the course to inquire about equipment purchases, you can do so using this link. A representative will be able to assist you if you tell them which Herman & Wallace course you will be taking.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Assignments
In order to derive the most benefit from this course, we ask our participants to internalize the required reading materials and complete a diary assignment prior to attending. Please complete this assignment prior to the first day of the seminar. We ask that participants keep a personal bladder diary measuring and recording fluid intake and urine output for two days - one work day and one non-work day. Specific measurements (use a large measuring cup or urine collection “hat”) of urine output are needed for at least one day, and on the following day one can estimate by counting seconds while voiding.
7:30 Questions, Post-test Day 2 7:45 Pelvic Organ Prolapse 8:45 Lab 6: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:45 Break 10:00 Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 11:15 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 1:45 Final Lab Preparation 2:00 Lab 7: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 3:15 Break 3:30 Case Studies 4:00 Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 4:15 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location:
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Pelvic Floor Level 1 - Little Rock, AR - September 19-20, 2020 (SOLD OUT)
{dtregister}921{/dtregister}
Description
Schedule
Objectives
Location/Lodging
Instructors
Discounts
Price:$695 ($725 within one month of the course) Experience Level: Beginner
This continuing education course is comprised of 9 hours of prerecorded lectures followed by two-days of in-person learning, and was designed to provide a thorough introduction to female pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. It is geared to the physical therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination and SEMG biofeedback assessment. The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, SEMG biofeedback, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat.
Special Considerations: As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
The Herman & Wallace Institute welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Being born with a vagina and other female anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other one participant during labs.
Vaginal examination and internal myofascial manual therapy prior to 32 weeks gestation is not the common standard of medical practice. Participants who are pregnant who wish to participate fully in the entire course including in lab must bring a clearance letter from their physician allowing them to participate in the labs is required. Participants who are pregnant also have the option of bringing their own lab model for examination, or they have the option of working in a group of three during lab times.
This course instructs in the use of biofeedback equipment. Equipment at the course will be supplied by our biofeedback vendor, Current Medical Technologies. If you would like to contact them prior to the course to inquire about equipment purchases, you can do so using this link. A representative will be able to assist you if you tell them which Herman & Wallace course you will be taking.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Assignments
In order to derive the most benefit from this course, we ask our participants to internalize the required reading materials and complete a diary assignment prior to attending. Please complete this assignment prior to the first day of the seminar. We ask that participants keep a personal bladder diary measuring and recording fluid intake and urine output for two days - one work day and one non-work day. Specific measurements (use a large measuring cup or urine collection “hat”) of urine output are needed for at least one day, and on the following day one can estimate by counting seconds while voiding.
7:30 Questions, Post-test Day 2 7:45 Pelvic Organ Prolapse 8:45 Lab 6: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:45 Break 10:00 Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 11:15 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 1:45 Final Lab Preparation 2:00 Lab 7: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 3:15 Break 3:30 Case Studies 4:00 Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 4:15 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Susannah Haarmann, PT, CLT, WCS
Susannah Haarmann, PT, CLT, WCS graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology in 2003. In 2007 she attended North Georgia College and State University obtaining a masters degree in Physical Therapy. Before focusing her attention on the practice of women’s health, Susannah became a well-rounded therapist working in various settings from acute care to outpatient manual therapy. She completed a residency in women’s health at Duke University in 2012 and currently treats the women’s health, lymphedema and orthopedic populations at Mission Hospital in Asheville, North Carolina. Susannah’s passion for improving quality of life in cancer thrivers shows in her dedication to oncology rehabilitation program development at Mission Hospital and sharing her knowledge with other therapists via the course ‘Rehabilitation for the Breast Cancer Patient.’ Outside of being a dedicated therapist, Susannah enjoys traveling, the arts and is an outdoors woman.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Nicole L. Dugan, PT, DPT, MSOD, CLT-LANA, WCS
Nicole L. Dugan, PT, DPT, MSOD, CLT-LANA, WCS graduated from Temple University’s MPT and DPT program in 1997 and 2003, respectively. At the onset of her career, she obtained clinical specialty and is now a board certified Women’s Health Clinical Specialist through the APTA and Certified Lymphedema Therapist through Lymphedema Association of North America. She spent 18 years working at Penn Medicine / Good Shepherd Penn Partners developing and mentoring in both the Pelvic Floor and Lymphedema rehabilitation program. While there, she oversaw the development and accreditation from the APTA for Women’s Health Residency Program. Nicole’s clinical specialties have allowed her opportunity to participate in multiple NIH funded multi-center research studies and publications. In 2015 Nicole joined Jefferson Health System in Philadelphia to focus on developing the Pelvic Rehabilitation program. With a focus on functional manual therapy, her clinical practice focuses on treating all genders for pelvic dysfunction, pregnancy/ postpartum/ bowel/ bladder and sexual dysfunction.
Nicole is dedicated to the multidisciplinary approach to managing patients with pelvic dysfunction. She is adjunct faculty at many academic programs including multiple Doctor of Physical Therapy programs, Jefferson Medical College, and Nursing school. She has been an invited speaker at international conferences on lymphedema management and pelvic rehabilitation. She provides pelvic rehabilitation services in Jamaica, WI through Medicine In Action medical mission. She is the co-founder of the Philadelphia Regional Pelvic PT Alliance which is a multidisciplinary organization focused on providing education and networking opportunities for Pelvic Therapists. When Niki is not working she enjoys travel, golf, and spending time with her husband and daughter.
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Instructors - Cathcart
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Instructor - Rietschel
Meghan Rietschel, PT, PRPC
Originally from the heart of Packer country in Eastern Wisconsin, Meghan graduated from The College of St Scholastica in Duluth, MN in 2000 with her Master of Arts in Physical Therapy and relocated to the Twin Cities area. Initially, an orthopedic therapist, Meghan wanted nothing to do with pelvic health, nor knew much about it! After the birth of her own children, she developed pelvic pain and was on a quest to find a path of healing for herself and realized what a profound impact her pelvic health therapist had on getting her life back! These experiences opened her up to a whole new passion and dedication she never imagined that would also have such an impact on the patients she serves. She has been an advocate for pelvic health for both women and men over the past several years.
Meghan has presented to several community groups, doctors’ groups, as well as other therapists on pelvic health treatment, differential diagnosis, and chronic pelvic pain. Additionally, she serves as a clinical instructor for DPT students.
Meghan believes in educating and empowering patients to get better, live a more active and healthier lifestyle, and to educate all on the importance of pelvic health.
Meghan currently practices, is a Clinic Supervisor and Clinical Specialist at The Institute for Athletic Medicine in Lino Lakes and Hugo, MN. She primarily treats women and men with chronic pelvic pain, incontinence, and constipation.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, 3 kids, 2 dogs, camping, hiking, watching the Green Bay Packers and is a member of her children’s soccer board!
This is a satellite offering of our course, Pelvic Floor Level 1. A satellite means that participants will be gathering in a given location and watching the instructor present remotely on the same screen. During labs, participants will pair up and practice labs with one another. This is the self-hosted option for the satellite course.
What does self-hosted mean? The self-hosted option is for those who live in very remote/inaccessible regions, who are practicing stricter social distancing, and are comfortable with self-lead, independent learning. Participants will need to sign up in groups of two or more in order to participate in labs. All participants must be therapists who are registered for this course who can give knowledgeable feedback to their partner during lab (no patients other unlicensed people).
Looking for more help and hands-on guidance during labs from vetted teaching assistants who are guiding participants meeting in groups of 10-16? Click here for a list of satellite locations where participants will be gathering at hosted locations with teaching assistants to assist the learning.
This continuing education course is comprised of 10 hours of prerecorded lectures followed by 14 hours of live, interactive remote learning which will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location and participate in labs together, with the instructor guiding remotely. It is expected that participants will only register for satellites in which they are within driving distance, and adhere to all state and local COVID guidelines, including wearing a mask at all times during the course.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to female pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination and SEMG biofeedback assessment. The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat.
Special Considerations:
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic, we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
The Herman & Wallace Institute welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Being born with a vagina and other female anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs.
Vaginal examination and internal myofascial manual therapy prior to 32 weeks gestation is not the common standard of medical practice. Participants who are pregnant who wish to participate fully in the entire course including in the lab must bring a clearance letter from their physician allowing them to participate in the labs is required. Participants who are pregnant also have the option of bringing their own lab model for examination, or they have the option of working in a group of three during lab times.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Assignments
In order to derive the most benefit from this course, we ask our participants to internalize the required reading materials and complete a diary assignment prior to attending. Please complete this assignment prior to the first day of the seminar. We ask that participants keep a personal bladder diary measuring and recording fluid intake and urine output for two days - one work day and one non-work day. Specific measurements (use a large measuring cup or urine collection “hat”) of urine output are needed for at least one day, and on the following day, one can estimate by counting seconds while voiding.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
This is a "self-hosted" option for attending a satellite lab course. Registrants who would like to pursue this option must:
Locate another therapist or small group of therapists who would like to register together as a unit. Individual registrations without a qualified and registered partner are not permitted.
Find a suitable location from which the pair/group can all view the zoom lectures together.
Practice hands-on lab techniques on the other therapists in their pair/group without a lab assistant or instructor physically present at their self-hosted location. The instructor will provide remote direction via zoom.
Students are required to attend a hosted satellite course option and are not permitted to register for self-hosted events.
Those who wish to take this course, but cannot meet the above requirements should register for a satellite location or in-person version of this course
What to have on hand for self-hosted labs
Your partner! You will need at least one person to work with during labs. This person must be a licensed professional who is also registered for the course. The printable portion of your manual from Teachable if you choose to print. * You are not required to print your full manual, please check for any sections specifically asking you to print prior to the event. Your Mask- Please wear a mask while participating in this course to keep your colleagues safe. A computer with a Wifi connection that your group will be using to view the course. The following supplies: Non Latex, Non-Powder Vinyl Gloves MEDIUM (box of 100) Hand Sanitizer (8 fl. Oz.) Lube for labs
Nicole L. Dugan, PT, DPT, MSOD, CLT-LANA, WCS
Nicole L. Dugan, PT, DPT, MSOD, CLT-LANA, WCS graduated from Temple University’s MPT and DPT program in 1997 and 2003, respectively. At the onset of her career, she obtained clinical specialty and is now a board certified Women’s Health Clinical Specialist through the APTA and Certified Lymphedema Therapist through Lymphedema Association of North America. She spent 18 years working at Penn Medicine / Good Shepherd Penn Partners developing and mentoring in both the Pelvic Floor and Lymphedema rehabilitation program. While there, she oversaw the development and accreditation from the APTA for Women’s Health Residency Program. Nicole’s clinical specialties have allowed her opportunity to participate in multiple NIH funded multi-center research studies and publications. In 2015 Nicole joined Jefferson Health System in Philadelphia to focus on developing the Pelvic Rehabilitation program. With a focus on functional manual therapy, her clinical practice focuses on treating all genders for pelvic dysfunction, pregnancy/ postpartum/ bowel/ bladder and sexual dysfunction.
Nicole is dedicated to the multidisciplinary approach to managing patients with pelvic dysfunction. She is adjunct faculty at many academic programs including multiple Doctor of Physical Therapy programs, Jefferson Medical College, and Nursing school. She has been an invited speaker at international conferences on lymphedema management and pelvic rehabilitation. She provides pelvic rehabilitation services in Jamaica, WI through Medicine In Action medical mission. She is the co-founder of the Philadelphia Regional Pelvic PT Alliance which is a multidisciplinary organization focused on providing education and networking opportunities for Pelvic Therapists. When Niki is not working she enjoys travel, golf, and spending time with her husband and daughter.
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This is a satellite offering of our course, Pelvic Floor Level 1. A satellite means that participants will be gathering in a given location and watching the instructor present remotely on the same screen. During labs, participants will pair up and practice labs with one another. This is the self-hosted option for the satellite course.
What does self-hosted mean? The self-hosted option is for those who live in very remote/inaccessible regions, who are practicing stricter social distancing, and are comfortable with self-lead, independent learning. Participants will need to sign up in groups of two or more in order to participate in labs. All participants must be therapists who are registered for this course who can give knowledgeable feedback to their partner during lab (no patients other unlicensed people).
Looking for more help and hands-on guidance during labs from vetted teaching assistants who are guiding participants meeting in groups of 10-16? Click here for a list of satellite locations where participants will be gathering at hosted locations with teaching assistants to assist the learning.
This continuing education course is comprised of 10 hours of prerecorded lectures followed by 14 hours of live, interactive remote learning which will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location and participate in labs together, with the instructor guiding remotely. It is expected that participants will only register for satellites in which they are within driving distance, and adhere to all state and local COVID guidelines, including wearing a mask at all times during the course.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to female pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination and SEMG biofeedback assessment. The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat.
Special Considerations:
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic, we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
The Herman & Wallace Institute welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Being born with a vagina and other female anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs.
Vaginal examination and internal myofascial manual therapy prior to 32 weeks gestation is not the common standard of medical practice. Participants who are pregnant who wish to participate fully in the entire course including in the lab must bring a clearance letter from their physician allowing them to participate in the labs is required. Participants who are pregnant also have the option of bringing their own lab model for examination, or they have the option of working in a group of three during lab times.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Assignments
In order to derive the most benefit from this course, we ask our participants to internalize the required reading materials and complete a diary assignment prior to attending. Please complete this assignment prior to the first day of the seminar. We ask that participants keep a personal bladder diary measuring and recording fluid intake and urine output for two days - one work day and one non-work day. Specific measurements (use a large measuring cup or urine collection “hat”) of urine output are needed for at least one day, and on the following day, one can estimate by counting seconds while voiding.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
This is a "self-hosted" option for attending a satellite lab course. Registrants who would like to pursue this option must:
Locate another therapist or small group of therapists who would like to register together as a unit. Individual registrations without a qualified and registered partner are not permitted.
Find a suitable location from which the pair/group can all view the zoom lectures together.
Practice hands-on lab techniques on the other therapists in their pair/group without a lab assistant or instructor physically present at their self-hosted location. The instructor will provide remote direction via zoom.
Students are required to attend a hosted satellite course option and are not permitted to register for self-hosted events.
Those who wish to take this course, but cannot meet the above requirements should register for a satellite location or in-person version of this course
What to have on hand for self-hosted labs
Your partner! You will need at least one person to work with during labs. This person must be a licensed professional who is also registered for the course. The printable portion of your manual from Teachable if you choose to print. * You are not required to print your full manual, please check for any sections specifically asking you to print prior to the event. Your Mask- Please wear a mask while participating in this course to keep your colleagues safe. A computer with a Wifi connection that your group will be using to view the course. The following supplies: Non Latex, Non-Powder Vinyl Gloves MEDIUM (box of 100) Hand Sanitizer (8 fl. Oz.) Lube for labs
Instructors - Cathcart
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Instructor - Rietschel
Meghan Rietschel, PT, PRPC
Originally from the heart of Packer country in Eastern Wisconsin, Meghan graduated from The College of St Scholastica in Duluth, MN in 2000 with her Master of Arts in Physical Therapy and relocated to the Twin Cities area. Initially, an orthopedic therapist, Meghan wanted nothing to do with pelvic health, nor knew much about it! After the birth of her own children, she developed pelvic pain and was on a quest to find a path of healing for herself and realized what a profound impact her pelvic health therapist had on getting her life back! These experiences opened her up to a whole new passion and dedication she never imagined that would also have such an impact on the patients she serves. She has been an advocate for pelvic health for both women and men over the past several years.
Meghan has presented to several community groups, doctors’ groups, as well as other therapists on pelvic health treatment, differential diagnosis, and chronic pelvic pain. Additionally, she serves as a clinical instructor for DPT students.
Meghan believes in educating and empowering patients to get better, live a more active and healthier lifestyle, and to educate all on the importance of pelvic health.
Meghan currently practices, is a Clinic Supervisor and Clinical Specialist at The Institute for Athletic Medicine in Lino Lakes and Hugo, MN. She primarily treats women and men with chronic pelvic pain, incontinence, and constipation.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, 3 kids, 2 dogs, camping, hiking, watching the Green Bay Packers and is a member of her children’s soccer board!
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Instructors - Cathcart
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Instructors - Reale
Jessica Reale, PT, DPT, WCS
Jessica is a board-certified specialist in Women’s Health (WCS) and is passionate about working with all people with pelvic floor disorders, especially those with chronic pelvic pain, urinary dysfunction and bowel dysfunction. She is a graduate of Gordon College with a B.S. in Kinesiology and of Duke University where she received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Jessica owns and treats patients at Southern Pelvic Health in Atlanta, GA, a specialty pelvic rehabilitation practice.
Jessica is passionate about pelvic health education, and works closely with Holly Tanner in writing and updating Pelvic Floor Level 1, 2A and 2B coursework. She also regularly guest lectures at local university DPT programs, and has presented at conferences, seminars, community groups, and various medical and physical therapy residency programs.
Jessica loves supporting other pelvic rehabilitation providers, and founded the Facebook group, Pelvic PT Newbies, as a place for safe questioning, learning and growth. She also established and runs a professional small group mentoring program several times each year. She also runs an educational blog on pelvic health topics through her website, and is active on social media @southernpelvichealth, spreading awareness of pelvic floor dysfunction and pelvic rehabilitation. Outside of work, Jessica enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 daughters, staying active, and traveling. .
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location:
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This is a satellite offering of our course, Pelvic Floor Level 1. A satellite means that participants will be gathering in a given location and watching the instructor present remotely on the same screen. During labs, participants will pair up and practice labs with one another. This is the self-hosted option for the satellite course.
What does self-hosted mean? The self-hosted option is for those who live in very remote/inaccessible regions, who are practicing stricter social distancing, and are comfortable with self-lead, independent learning. Participants will need to sign up in groups of two or more in order to participate in labs. All participants must be therapists who are registered for this course who can give knowledgeable feedback to their partner during lab (no patients other unlicensed people).
Looking for more help and hands-on guidance during labs from vetted teaching assistants who are guiding participants meeting in groups of 10-16? Click here for a list of satellite locations where participants will be gathering at hosted locations with teaching assistants to assist the learning.
This continuing education course is comprised of 10 hours of prerecorded lectures followed by 14 hours of live, interactive remote learning which will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location and participate in labs together, with the instructor guiding remotely. It is expected that participants will only register for satellites in which they are within driving distance, and adhere to all state and local COVID guidelines, including wearing a mask at all times during the course.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to female pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination and SEMG biofeedback assessment. The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat.
Special Considerations:
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic, we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
The Herman & Wallace Institute welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Being born with a vagina and other female anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs.
Vaginal examination and internal myofascial manual therapy prior to 32 weeks gestation is not the common standard of medical practice. Participants who are pregnant who wish to participate fully in the entire course including in the lab must bring a clearance letter from their physician allowing them to participate in the labs is required. Participants who are pregnant also have the option of bringing their own lab model for examination, or they have the option of working in a group of three during lab times.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Assignments
In order to derive the most benefit from this course, we ask our participants to internalize the required reading materials and complete a diary assignment prior to attending. Please complete this assignment prior to the first day of the seminar. We ask that participants keep a personal bladder diary measuring and recording fluid intake and urine output for two days - one work day and one non-work day. Specific measurements (use a large measuring cup or urine collection “hat”) of urine output are needed for at least one day, and on the following day, one can estimate by counting seconds while voiding.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
This is a "self-hosted" option for attending a satellite lab course. Registrants who would like to pursue this option must:
Locate another therapist or small group of therapists who would like to register together as a unit. Individual registrations without a qualified and registered partner are not permitted.
Find a suitable location from which the pair/group can all view the zoom lectures together.
Practice hands-on lab techniques on the other therapists in their pair/group without a lab assistant or instructor physically present at their self-hosted location. The instructor will provide remote direction via zoom.
Students are required to attend a hosted satellite course option and are not permitted to register for self-hosted events.
Those who wish to take this course, but cannot meet the above requirements should register for a satellite location or in-person version of this course
What to have on hand for self-hosted labs
Your partner! You will need at least one person to work with during labs. This person must be a licensed professional who is also registered for the course. The printable portion of your manual from Teachable if you choose to print. * You are not required to print your full manual, please check for any sections specifically asking you to print prior to the event. Your Mask- Please wear a mask while participating in this course to keep your colleagues safe. A computer with a Wifi connection that your group will be using to view the course. The following supplies: Non Latex, Non-Powder Vinyl Gloves MEDIUM (box of 100) Hand Sanitizer (8 fl. Oz.) Lube for labs
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This continuing education course consists of pre-recorded lectures followed by live, interactive remote learning that will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. Participants in this event will meet in person to watch the Zoom presentation in the same location. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the on-site lab assistants.
This course was designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic floor function, dysfunction and treatment interventions. This course is geared to the therapist who wants to synthesize the information and apply it to individual treatment programs for urinary incontinence or the musculoskeletal components of urogynecologic pain syndromes such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), vulvar pain, and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). This continuing education seminar teaches evaluation and treatment interventions by instructional assessment of the pelvic floor muscles with internal vaginal examination, and SEMG biofeedback assessment (please note that, for the time being, SEMG is being demonstrated in video lectures; for hands-on learning, consider attending Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction). The information is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Presentation of evidence-based evaluation and treatment techniques will be emphasized. Outcome measures and quality of life questionnaires will be presented for both urinary incontinence and pain syndromes. Daily lab time allows for supervised instruction of pelvic floor muscle evaluation with external palpation and internal vaginal examination of pelvic floor musculature. For each condition the therapist will learn to: recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities; use an evaluation/outcome tool; and perform a suggested protocol of treatment interventions. Clinical treatment interventions will include therapeutic exercise, external manual therapy, patient related education/behavioral instructions and electrotherapeutic modalities.
Prerequisites
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course and in order to earn a certificate of completion for this course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom All pre-recorded lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class.
Audience
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Vaginal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Labs will be conducted under the supervision of instructors and teaching assistants. There will be a ratio of at least one instructor/assistant for every ten participants.
Participation in Labs
H&W strives to foster an environment that is inclusive and welcomes all professionals who are appropriately licensed at our courses. Having any particular anatomy is not a prerequisite for attending or participating fully in our courses. No one participant will be required to partner with any other participant during labs. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exams may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 10 hours
1) Pelvic Floor Anatomy & Function (51 minutes) 2) Pelvic Floor Evaluation and Examination (1 hour 30 min) 3) Managing Movement (1 hour) 4) Urinary Incontinence (1 hour 30 min) 5) Introduction to Pelvic Pain (1 hour 10 min) 6) General Treatment of Pelvic Pain (1 hour) 7) Awareness of Trauma (1 hour) 8) Pelvic Organ Prolapse (1 hour 10 min) 9) Introduction to Biofeedback and Electrical Stimulation (46 min) 10) Additional Resources on Biofeedback and E-Stim from our Partners at CMT (Optional)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction, goals, objectives, questions
6:45 - Pelvic Floor (PF) Anatomy and Evaluation 7:30 - Lab 1: PF Exam Techniques Part 1: Observation, Identification, Muscle layers, ICS Scoring 8:45 - Break 9:00 - Pelvic Floor Evaluation (Continued) 9:30 - Lab 2: PF Exam Techniques Part 2: PF MMT, Laycock Exam, Pelvic Clock, Obturator Internus 10:30 - Lunch 11:30 - Urinary Incontinence Examination & Interventions Part II 1:00 - Break 1:15 - Lab 3: Bladder Diary Activity 2:00 - Questions 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 4 Prep, Lab 4: Screening of Breathing & Load Transfer Strategies, Abdominal Wall Dysfunction 7:30 - Break 7:45 - Lab 5: Pelvic Floor Examination and Prolapse Exam, External Palpation 9:00 - Specific Diagnoses in Female Pelvic Pain 10:30 - Lunch 11:00 - Managing Movement Part II: Pressures & Load Transfer 12:45 - Final Lab Preparation Presentation 1:00 - Lab 6: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 2:00 - Break 2:15 - Case Studies 2:45 - Questions (Resources, Billing, Marketing, Etc.), Wrap-up 3:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the muscle layers and specific muscles of the pelvic floor 2. List the pelvic floor muscle functions 3. Describe and perform pelvic floor muscle evaluation techniques utilizing observation, vaginal palpation, and SEMG biofeedback 4. List appropriate outcome measure tools for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain 5. List indications, precautions, contraindications, and universal precautions for pelvic floor examination and treatment 6. Identify specific pelvic pain conditions (vulvodynia, IC and CPP) and common physical therapy interventions 7. Identify the various types of urinary incontinence and behavioral treatment options available to the physical therapist 8. List two diagnoses that would benefit from applications of electrotherapy 9. Describe the applications of SEMG biofeedback for the pelvic floor 10. Develop evidence-based treatment plans and progressive clinical goals for female pelvic floor dysfunctions
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Pelvic Floor Level 2A - Atlanta, GA - October 24-25, 2020 (Rescheduled)
Due to concerns abotu COVID19, this course has been converted to a remote, satellite option.
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Description
Schedule
Objectives
Location/Lodging
Instructors
Discounts
Price: $695 ($725 within one month of the course) Experience Level: Intermediate Contact Hours: 22.5
This continuing education course is a three-day (8 hours of online content, followed by a 2-day in-person course) intermediate-level seminar designed as a next step in completing the clinicians’ ability to more comprehensively evaluate and treat the female and male pelvic floor. The participant will have the opportunity to learn about two common bowel dysfunctions, fecal incontinence and constipation, and how the pelvic rehabilitation provider can play a crucial role in overcoming these issues that affect quality of life so dramatically. In the US, adult estimates of fecal incontinence is over 8%, and greater than 15% in people over age 70. (Whitehead, 2010) According to the National Institutes of Health, constipation affects up to 15% of people, and is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints that affects 42 million people. (Constipation, 2013) Pelvic rehabilitation providers are able to teach patients how to significantly improve quality of life through simple behavioral techniques and approaches that optimize abdominopelvic health.
Participants will learn how to evaluate the patient who presents with bowel dysfunction including fecal incontinence and constipation, and also with defecation disorders such as paroxysmal puborectalis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and fecal urgency. Knowledge of pelvic anatomy expands into the gastrointestinal system with detailed instruction about the rectum and anal canal, anal sphincters, and with instruction in important physiologic principles such as the gastrocolic reflex, sampling response, and intrinsic defecation reflex. There are other conditions that can cause pain or bleeding such as hemorrhoids, fistulas, fissures, and proctalgia fugax; the clinician will learn how to apply skills of external and internal pelvic muscle assessment (via the anorectal canal) for these conditions.
Many pelvic rehabilitation providers attend this course to learn clinical skills for coccyx pain and for pudendal neuralgia, two conditions that are included on Day 2 of this continuing education course. As either condition can contribute to chronic pelvic pain, this course provides significant lab time so that participants will have the opportunity to practice any new skills. Day 3 of the course introduces the participant to pelvic rehabilitation of the male patient with an emphasis on topics of male pelvic anatomy, urinary incontinence, prostatectomy, and male pelvic pain. The content in this course prepares the therapist to work with male pelvic conditions by reinforcing what is common to the care of both men and women, as well as teaching that which is unique for the male patient. Current medical evaluation (with tests such as defecography, manometry), medical management (for anorectal pain and for colorectal conditions), and evidence-informed clinical interventions will be instructed.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat. It is expected that participants will only register for satellites in which they are within driving distance, and adhere to all state and local COVID guidelines, including wearing a mask at all times during the course.
Special Considerations:
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Rectal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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:
Pelvic Floor Level 1, through Herman & Wallace or Pelvic PT 1 through the APTA is required. Exceptions to this policy may be granted on a case-by-case basis, to inquire about such exceptions please contact us.
Required Readings:
1. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse Handout on Fecal Incontinence 2. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Article on Constipation 3. The International Pelvic Pain Society Article on Pudendal Nerve Entrapment (PNE) 4. The European Urology Association'sGuidelines on Chronic Pelvic Pain 5. Principles of Biofeedback from Professor Tim Watson's website electrotherapy.org
6. Gray's Anatomy for Students - Available at a 25% Discount for Herman & Wallace registrants with promo code 70484. Registrants who already own a copy of this or a corresponding textbook are not required to purchase an additional one.
Constipation. (2013) National Institutes of Health. Retrieved January 22, 2014 from http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/constipation Whitehead, W. E., Borrud, L., Gode, P. S., Meikle, S., Mueller, E. R., Tuteja, A.,...Ye, W. (2009). Fecal incontinence in US adults: epidemiology and risk factors. Gastroenterology, (137)2, 512-517
Recorded Lecture: Watch Before the In-Person Component of the Course
7:30 Registration 8:00 Introduction, Goals, Objectives 8:30 Colorectal Anatomy and Physiology Review, Anorectal Examination 9:15 LAB 1: Anorectal Evaluation: Sidelying Anorectal Examination & Muscle Mapping 10:15 Break 10:30 Fecal Incontinence, Case Study 11:15 Constipation, Case Study 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Pelvic Pain: Prostatitis, Scrotal Pain 2:00 Coccyx Dysfunction 3:00 Break 3:15 LAB 2: External Palpation & Intervention Posterior Pelvis 4:15 Prostatectomy Part I 5:15 Questions 5:30 Adjourn
Day Two:
7:45 Questions from Day 1, Post-test Day 1 8:00 Prostatectomy Part II 8:45 Pudendal 9:45 Break 10:00 LAB 3: Internal Interventions for Coccyx, Pudendal and Pelvic Pain 11:15 LAB 4: Inclusive Language 12:00 Lunch 12:45 Colorectal Conditions 2:00 Break 2:15 LAB 5: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 3:30 Questions 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Describe anatomy of the colorectal region. 2. Explain physiology of the gastrointestinal system including pathophysiology pertaining to bowel dysfunction. 3. Perform examination and evaluation of pelvic floor function related to anorectal structures. 4. Recognize types of fecal incontinence and develop plans of care for intervention including behavioral training and education. 5. Recognize and treat constipation, name the signs, symptoms, and interventions for hemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas, and other common colorectal conditions. 6. Identify specific pelvic floor muscles and key bony landmarks within the anorectal canal. 7. Perform external and internal rectal myofascial treatment techniques such as Thiele’s massage and trigger point release. 8. Perform patient education and behavioral training for constipation, fecal incontinence and pelvic pain syndromes. 9. Describe and teach three SEMG downtraining (relaxation) strategies for the overactive pelvic floor. 10. Describe and demonstrate coccyx evaluation and treatment using internal and external coccyx mobilizations. 11. Describe male urogenital and pelvic floor anatomy, identify signs and symptoms of prostatodynia 12. List key medical diagnostic procedures for colorectal conditions.
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Instructors - Cathcart
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Instructors - Reale
Jessica Reale, PT, DPT, WCS
Jessica is a board-certified specialist in Women’s Health (WCS) and is passionate about working with all people with pelvic floor disorders, especially those with chronic pelvic pain, urinary dysfunction and bowel dysfunction. She is a graduate of Gordon College with a B.S. in Kinesiology and of Duke University where she received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Jessica owns and treats patients at Southern Pelvic Health in Atlanta, GA, a specialty pelvic rehabilitation practice.
Jessica is passionate about pelvic health education, and works closely with Holly Tanner in writing and updating Pelvic Floor Level 1, 2A and 2B coursework. She also regularly guest lectures at local university DPT programs, and has presented at conferences, seminars, community groups, and various medical and physical therapy residency programs.
Jessica loves supporting other pelvic rehabilitation providers, and founded the Facebook group, Pelvic PT Newbies, as a place for safe questioning, learning and growth. She also established and runs a professional small group mentoring program several times each year. She also runs an educational blog on pelvic health topics through her website, and is active on social media @southernpelvichealth, spreading awareness of pelvic floor dysfunction and pelvic rehabilitation. Outside of work, Jessica enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 daughters, staying active, and traveling. .
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Pelvic Floor Level 2A - Atlanta, GA - September 25-27, 2020 (RESCHEDULED)
Due to COVID19, this couers has been rescheduled to the following dates: October 24-25, 2020
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Description
Schedule
Objectives
Location Lodging
Instructors
Discounts
Price: $695 ($725 within one month of the course) Experience Level: Intermediate Contact Hours: 22.5
This continuing education course is a three-day (8 hours of online content, followed by a 2-day in-person course) intermediate-level seminar designed as a next step in completing the clinicians’ ability to more comprehensively evaluate and treat the female and male pelvic floor. The participant will have the opportunity to learn about two common bowel dysfunctions, fecal incontinence and constipation, and how the pelvic rehabilitation provider can play a crucial role in overcoming these issues that affect quality of life so dramatically. In the US, adult estimates of fecal incontinence is over 8%, and greater than 15% in people over age 70. (Whitehead, 2010) According to the National Institutes of Health, constipation affects up to 15% of people, and is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints that affects 42 million people. (Constipation, 2013) Pelvic rehabilitation providers are able to teach patients how to significantly improve quality of life through simple behavioral techniques and approaches that optimize abdominopelvic health.
Participants will learn how to evaluate the patient who presents with bowel dysfunction including fecal incontinence and constipation, and also with defecation disorders such as paroxysmal puborectalis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and fecal urgency. Knowledge of pelvic anatomy expands into the gastrointestinal system with detailed instruction about the rectum and anal canal, anal sphincters, and with instruction in important physiologic principles such as the gastrocolic reflex, sampling response, and intrinsic defecation reflex. There are other conditions that can cause pain or bleeding such as hemorrhoids, fistulas, fissures, and proctalgia fugax; the clinician will learn how to apply skills of external and internal pelvic muscle assessment (via the anorectal canal) for these conditions.
Many pelvic rehabilitation providers attend this course to learn clinical skills for coccyx pain and for pudendal neuralgia, two conditions that are included on Day 2 of this continuing education course. As either condition can contribute to chronic pelvic pain, this course provides significant lab time so that participants will have the opportunity to practice any new skills. Day 3 of the course introduces the participant to pelvic rehabilitation of the male patient with an emphasis on topics of male pelvic anatomy, urinary incontinence, prostatectomy, and male pelvic pain. The content in this course prepares the therapist to work with male pelvic conditions by reinforcing what is common to the care of both men and women, as well as teaching that which is unique for the male patient. Current medical evaluation (with tests such as defecography, manometry), medical management (for anorectal pain and for colorectal conditions), and evidence-informed clinical interventions will be instructed.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat. It is expected that participants will only register for satellites in which they are within driving distance, and adhere to all state and local COVID guidelines, including wearing a mask at all times during the course.
Special Considerations:
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Rectal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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:
Pelvic Floor Level 1, through Herman & Wallace or Pelvic PT 1 through the APTA is required. Exceptions to this policy may be granted on a case-by-case basis, to inquire about such exceptions please contact us.
Required Readings:
1. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse Handout on Fecal Incontinence 2. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Article on Constipation 3. The International Pelvic Pain Society Article on Pudendal Nerve Entrapment (PNE) 4. The European Urology Association'sGuidelines on Chronic Pelvic Pain 5. Principles of Biofeedback from Professor Tim Watson's website electrotherapy.org
6. Gray's Anatomy for Students - Available at a 25% Discount for Herman & Wallace registrants with promo code 70484. Registrants who already own a copy of this or a corresponding textbook are not required to purchase an additional one.
Constipation. (2013) National Institutes of Health. Retrieved January 22, 2014 from http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/constipation Whitehead, W. E., Borrud, L., Gode, P. S., Meikle, S., Mueller, E. R., Tuteja, A.,...Ye, W. (2009). Fecal incontinence in US adults: epidemiology and risk factors. Gastroenterology, (137)2, 512-517
Recorded Lecture: Watch Before the In-Person Component of the Course
7:30 Registration 8:00 Introduction, Goals, Objectives 8:30 Colorectal Anatomy and Physiology Review, Anorectal Examination 9:15 LAB 1: Anorectal Evaluation: Sidelying Anorectal Examination & Muscle Mapping 10:15 Break 10:30 Fecal Incontinence, Case Study 11:15 Constipation, Case Study 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Pelvic Pain: Prostatitis, Scrotal Pain 2:00 Coccyx Dysfunction 3:00 Break 3:15 LAB 2: External Palpation & Intervention Posterior Pelvis 4:15 Prostatectomy Part I 5:15 Questions 5:30 Adjourn
Day Two:
7:45 Questions from Day 1, Post-test Day 1 8:00 Prostatectomy Part II 8:45 Pudendal 9:45 Break 10:00 LAB 3: Internal Interventions for Coccyx, Pudendal and Pelvic Pain 11:15 LAB 4: Inclusive Language 12:00 Lunch 12:45 Colorectal Conditions 2:00 Break 2:15 LAB 5: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 3:30 Questions 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Describe anatomy of the colorectal region. 2. Explain physiology of the gastrointestinal system including pathophysiology pertaining to bowel dysfunction. 3. Perform examination and evaluation of pelvic floor function related to anorectal structures. 4. Recognize types of fecal incontinence and develop plans of care for intervention including behavioral training and education. 5. Recognize and treat constipation, name the signs, symptoms, and interventions for hemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas, and other common colorectal conditions. 6. Identify specific pelvic floor muscles and key bony landmarks within the anorectal canal. 7. Perform external and internal rectal myofascial treatment techniques such as Thiele’s massage and trigger point release. 8. Perform patient education and behavioral training for constipation, fecal incontinence and pelvic pain syndromes. 9. Describe and teach three SEMG downtraining (relaxation) strategies for the overactive pelvic floor. 10. Describe and demonstrate coccyx evaluation and treatment using internal and external coccyx mobilizations. 11. Describe male urogenital and pelvic floor anatomy, identify signs and symptoms of prostatodynia 12. List key medical diagnostic procedures for colorectal conditions.
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Instructors - Cathcart
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Instructors - Reale
Jessica Reale, PT, DPT, WCS
Jessica is a board-certified specialist in Women’s Health (WCS) and is passionate about working with all people with pelvic floor disorders, especially those with chronic pelvic pain, urinary dysfunction and bowel dysfunction. She is a graduate of Gordon College with a B.S. in Kinesiology and of Duke University where she received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Jessica owns and treats patients at Southern Pelvic Health in Atlanta, GA, a specialty pelvic rehabilitation practice.
Jessica is passionate about pelvic health education, and works closely with Holly Tanner in writing and updating Pelvic Floor Level 1, 2A and 2B coursework. She also regularly guest lectures at local university DPT programs, and has presented at conferences, seminars, community groups, and various medical and physical therapy residency programs.
Jessica loves supporting other pelvic rehabilitation providers, and founded the Facebook group, Pelvic PT Newbies, as a place for safe questioning, learning and growth. She also established and runs a professional small group mentoring program several times each year. She also runs an educational blog on pelvic health topics through her website, and is active on social media @southernpelvichealth, spreading awareness of pelvic floor dysfunction and pelvic rehabilitation. Outside of work, Jessica enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 daughters, staying active, and traveling. .
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Price: $695 ($725 within one month of the course) Experience Level: Intermediate Contact Hours: 22.5
This continuing education course is a three-day (8 hours of online content, followed by a 2-day in-person course) intermediate-level seminar designed as a next step in completing the clinicians’ ability to more comprehensively evaluate and treat the female and male pelvic floor. The participant will have the opportunity to learn about two common bowel dysfunctions, fecal incontinence and constipation, and how the pelvic rehabilitation provider can play a crucial role in overcoming these issues that affect quality of life so dramatically. In the US, adult estimates of fecal incontinence is over 8%, and greater than 15% in people over age 70. (Whitehead, 2010) According to the National Institutes of Health, constipation affects up to 15% of people, and is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints that affects 42 million people. (Constipation, 2013) Pelvic rehabilitation providers are able to teach patients how to significantly improve quality of life through simple behavioral techniques and approaches that optimize abdominopelvic health.
Participants will learn how to evaluate the patient who presents with bowel dysfunction including fecal incontinence and constipation, and also with defecation disorders such as paroxysmal puborectalis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and fecal urgency. Knowledge of pelvic anatomy expands into the gastrointestinal system with detailed instruction about the rectum and anal canal, anal sphincters, and with instruction in important physiologic principles such as the gastrocolic reflex, sampling response, and intrinsic defecation reflex. There are other conditions that can cause pain or bleeding such as hemorrhoids, fistulas, fissures, and proctalgia fugax; the clinician will learn how to apply skills of external and internal pelvic muscle assessment (via the anorectal canal) for these conditions.
Many pelvic rehabilitation providers attend this course to learn clinical skills for coccyx pain and for pudendal neuralgia, two conditions that are included on Day 2 of this continuing education course. As either condition can contribute to chronic pelvic pain, this course provides significant lab time so that participants will have the opportunity to practice any new skills. Day 3 of the course introduces the participant to pelvic rehabilitation of the male patient with an emphasis on topics of male pelvic anatomy, urinary incontinence, prostatectomy, and male pelvic pain. The content in this course prepares the therapist to work with male pelvic conditions by reinforcing what is common to the care of both men and women, as well as teaching that which is unique for the male patient. Current medical evaluation (with tests such as defecography, manometry), medical management (for anorectal pain and for colorectal conditions), and evidence-informed clinical interventions will be instructed.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat. It is expected that participants will only register for satellites in which they are within driving distance, and adhere to all state and local COVID guidelines, including wearing a mask at all times during the course.
Special Considerations:
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Rectal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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:
Pelvic Floor Level 1, through Herman & Wallace or Pelvic PT 1 through the APTA is required. Exceptions to this policy may be granted on a case-by-case basis, to inquire about such exceptions please contact us.
Required Readings:
1. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse Handout on Fecal Incontinence 2. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Article on Constipation 3. The International Pelvic Pain Society Article on Pudendal Nerve Entrapment (PNE) 4. The European Urology Association'sGuidelines on Chronic Pelvic Pain 5. Principles of Biofeedback from Professor Tim Watson's website electrotherapy.org
6. Gray's Anatomy for Students - Available at a 25% Discount for Herman & Wallace registrants with promo code 70484. Registrants who already own a copy of this or a corresponding textbook are not required to purchase an additional one.
Constipation. (2013) National Institutes of Health. Retrieved January 22, 2014 from http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/constipation Whitehead, W. E., Borrud, L., Gode, P. S., Meikle, S., Mueller, E. R., Tuteja, A.,...Ye, W. (2009). Fecal incontinence in US adults: epidemiology and risk factors. Gastroenterology, (137)2, 512-517
Recorded Lecture: Watch Before the In-Person Component of the Course
7:30 Registration 8:00 Introduction, Goals, Objectives 8:30 Colorectal Anatomy and Physiology Review, Anorectal Examination 9:15 LAB 1: Anorectal Evaluation: Sidelying Anorectal Examination & Muscle Mapping 10:15 Break 10:30 Fecal Incontinence, Case Study 11:15 Constipation, Case Study 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Pelvic Pain: Prostatitis, Scrotal Pain 2:00 Coccyx Dysfunction 3:00 Break 3:15 LAB 2: External Palpation & Intervention Posterior Pelvis 4:15 Prostatectomy Part I 5:15 Questions 5:30 Adjourn
Day Two:
7:45 Questions from Day 1, Post-test Day 1 8:00 Prostatectomy Part II 8:45 Pudendal 9:45 Break 10:00 LAB 3: Internal Interventions for Coccyx, Pudendal and Pelvic Pain 11:15 LAB 4: Inclusive Language 12:00 Lunch 12:45 Colorectal Conditions 2:00 Break 2:15 LAB 5: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 3:30 Questions 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Describe anatomy of the colorectal region. 2. Explain physiology of the gastrointestinal system including pathophysiology pertaining to bowel dysfunction. 3. Perform examination and evaluation of pelvic floor function related to anorectal structures. 4. Recognize types of fecal incontinence and develop plans of care for intervention including behavioral training and education. 5. Recognize and treat constipation, name the signs, symptoms, and interventions for hemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas, and other common colorectal conditions. 6. Identify specific pelvic floor muscles and key bony landmarks within the anorectal canal. 7. Perform external and internal rectal myofascial treatment techniques such as Thiele’s massage and trigger point release. 8. Perform patient education and behavioral training for constipation, fecal incontinence and pelvic pain syndromes. 9. Describe and teach three SEMG downtraining (relaxation) strategies for the overactive pelvic floor. 10. Describe and demonstrate coccyx evaluation and treatment using internal and external coccyx mobilizations. 11. Describe male urogenital and pelvic floor anatomy, identify signs and symptoms of prostatodynia 12. List key medical diagnostic procedures for colorectal conditions.
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location:
Instructors - Cathcart
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Instructors - Reale
Jessica Reale, PT, DPT, WCS
Jessica is a board-certified specialist in Women’s Health (WCS) and is passionate about working with all people with pelvic floor disorders, especially those with chronic pelvic pain, urinary dysfunction and bowel dysfunction. She is a graduate of Gordon College with a B.S. in Kinesiology and of Duke University where she received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Jessica owns and treats patients at Southern Pelvic Health in Atlanta, GA, a specialty pelvic rehabilitation practice.
Jessica is passionate about pelvic health education, and works closely with Holly Tanner in writing and updating Pelvic Floor Level 1, 2A and 2B coursework. She also regularly guest lectures at local university DPT programs, and has presented at conferences, seminars, community groups, and various medical and physical therapy residency programs.
Jessica loves supporting other pelvic rehabilitation providers, and founded the Facebook group, Pelvic PT Newbies, as a place for safe questioning, learning and growth. She also established and runs a professional small group mentoring program several times each year. She also runs an educational blog on pelvic health topics through her website, and is active on social media @southernpelvichealth, spreading awareness of pelvic floor dysfunction and pelvic rehabilitation. Outside of work, Jessica enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 daughters, staying active, and traveling. .
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Pelvic Floor Function, Dysfunction and Treatment (Level 2A)
Course Description
This is a satellite offering of our course, Pelvic Floor Level 2A. This continuing education course consists of 9.3 hours of pre recorded lectures followed by 13.75 hours of live, interactive remote learning which will be completed by groups meeting at a specific satellite location OR self-hosted location. The instructor will be presenting to all satellites from a remote location via Zoom. During labs, participants will pair up and be guided by the local lab assistants at the satellite course location.
This continuing education course is an intermediate-level seminar designed as a next step in completing the clinicians’ ability to more comprehensively evaluate and treat the female and male pelvic floor. The participant will have the opportunity to learn about two common bowel dysfunctions, fecal incontinence and constipation, and how the pelvic rehabilitation provider can play a crucial role in overcoming these issues that affect the quality of life so dramatically. In the US, the estimate of adult fecal incontinence is over 8% and greater than 15% in people over age 70. (Whitehead, 2010) According to the National Institutes of Health, constipation affects up to 15% of people, and is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints that affects 42 million people. (Constipation, 2013) Pelvic rehabilitation providers are able to teach patients how to significantly improve quality of life through simple behavioral techniques and approaches that optimize abdominopelvic health.
Participants will learn how to evaluate the patient who presents with bowel dysfunction including fecal incontinence and constipation, and also with defecation disorders such as paroxysmal puborectalis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and fecal urgency. Knowledge of pelvic anatomy expands into the gastrointestinal system with detailed instruction about the rectum and anal canal, anal sphincters, and with instruction in important physiologic principles such as the gastrocolic reflex, sampling response, and intrinsic defecation reflex. There are other conditions that can cause pain or bleeding such as hemorrhoids, fistulas, fissures, and proctalgia fugax; the clinician will learn how to apply skills of external and internal pelvic muscle assessment (via the anorectal canal) for these conditions.
Pelvic Floor Level 2A - Little Rock, AR - April 26-28, 2019
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Description
Schedule
Objectives
Location/Lodging
Instructors
Discounts
Price: $695 ($725 within one month of the course) Experience Level: Intermediate Contact Hours: 22.5
This continuing education course is a three-day (8 hours of online content, followed by a 2-day in-person course) intermediate-level seminar designed as a next step in completing the clinicians’ ability to more comprehensively evaluate and treat the female and male pelvic floor. The participant will have the opportunity to learn about two common bowel dysfunctions, fecal incontinence and constipation, and how the pelvic rehabilitation provider can play a crucial role in overcoming these issues that affect quality of life so dramatically. In the US, adult estimates of fecal incontinence is over 8%, and greater than 15% in people over age 70. (Whitehead, 2010) According to the National Institutes of Health, constipation affects up to 15% of people, and is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints that affects 42 million people. (Constipation, 2013) Pelvic rehabilitation providers are able to teach patients how to significantly improve quality of life through simple behavioral techniques and approaches that optimize abdominopelvic health.
Participants will learn how to evaluate the patient who presents with bowel dysfunction including fecal incontinence and constipation, and also with defecation disorders such as paroxysmal puborectalis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and fecal urgency. Knowledge of pelvic anatomy expands into the gastrointestinal system with detailed instruction about the rectum and anal canal, anal sphincters, and with instruction in important physiologic principles such as the gastrocolic reflex, sampling response, and intrinsic defecation reflex. There are other conditions that can cause pain or bleeding such as hemorrhoids, fistulas, fissures, and proctalgia fugax; the clinician will learn how to apply skills of external and internal pelvic muscle assessment (via the anorectal canal) for these conditions.
Many pelvic rehabilitation providers attend this course to learn clinical skills for coccyx pain and for pudendal neuralgia, two conditions that are included on Day 2 of this continuing education course. As either condition can contribute to chronic pelvic pain, this course provides significant lab time so that participants will have the opportunity to practice any new skills. Day 3 of the course introduces the participant to pelvic rehabilitation of the male patient with an emphasis on topics of male pelvic anatomy, urinary incontinence, prostatectomy, and male pelvic pain. The content in this course prepares the therapist to work with male pelvic conditions by reinforcing what is common to the care of both men and women, as well as teaching that which is unique for the male patient. Current medical evaluation (with tests such as defecography, manometry), medical management (for anorectal pain and for colorectal conditions), and evidence-informed clinical interventions will be instructed.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat. It is expected that participants will only register for satellites in which they are within driving distance, and adhere to all state and local COVID guidelines, including wearing a mask at all times during the course.
Special Considerations:
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Rectal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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:
Pelvic Floor Level 1, through Herman & Wallace or Pelvic PT 1 through the APTA is required. Exceptions to this policy may be granted on a case-by-case basis, to inquire about such exceptions please contact us.
Required Readings:
1. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse Handout on Fecal Incontinence 2. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Article on Constipation 3. The International Pelvic Pain Society Article on Pudendal Nerve Entrapment (PNE) 4. The European Urology Association'sGuidelines on Chronic Pelvic Pain 5. Principles of Biofeedback from Professor Tim Watson's website electrotherapy.org
6. Gray's Anatomy for Students - Available at a 25% Discount for Herman & Wallace registrants with promo code 70484. Registrants who already own a copy of this or a corresponding textbook are not required to purchase an additional one.
Constipation. (2013) National Institutes of Health. Retrieved January 22, 2014 from http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/constipation Whitehead, W. E., Borrud, L., Gode, P. S., Meikle, S., Mueller, E. R., Tuteja, A.,...Ye, W. (2009). Fecal incontinence in US adults: epidemiology and risk factors. Gastroenterology, (137)2, 512-517
Recorded Lecture: Watch Before the In-Person Component of the Course
7:30 Registration 8:00 Introduction, Goals, Objectives 8:30 Colorectal Anatomy and Physiology Review, Anorectal Examination 9:15 LAB 1: Anorectal Evaluation: Sidelying Anorectal Examination & Muscle Mapping 10:15 Break 10:30 Fecal Incontinence, Case Study 11:15 Constipation, Case Study 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Pelvic Pain: Prostatitis, Scrotal Pain 2:00 Coccyx Dysfunction 3:00 Break 3:15 LAB 2: External Palpation & Intervention Posterior Pelvis 4:15 Prostatectomy Part I 5:15 Questions 5:30 Adjourn
Day Two:
7:45 Questions from Day 1, Post-test Day 1 8:00 Prostatectomy Part II 8:45 Pudendal 9:45 Break 10:00 LAB 3: Internal Interventions for Coccyx, Pudendal and Pelvic Pain 11:15 LAB 4: Inclusive Language 12:00 Lunch 12:45 Colorectal Conditions 2:00 Break 2:15 LAB 5: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 3:30 Questions 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Describe anatomy of the colorectal region. 2. Explain physiology of the gastrointestinal system including pathophysiology pertaining to bowel dysfunction. 3. Perform examination and evaluation of pelvic floor function related to anorectal structures. 4. Recognize types of fecal incontinence and develop plans of care for intervention including behavioral training and education. 5. Recognize and treat constipation, name the signs, symptoms, and interventions for hemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas, and other common colorectal conditions. 6. Identify specific pelvic floor muscles and key bony landmarks within the anorectal canal. 7. Perform external and internal rectal myofascial treatment techniques such as Thiele’s massage and trigger point release. 8. Perform patient education and behavioral training for constipation, fecal incontinence and pelvic pain syndromes. 9. Describe and teach three SEMG downtraining (relaxation) strategies for the overactive pelvic floor. 10. Describe and demonstrate coccyx evaluation and treatment using internal and external coccyx mobilizations. 11. Describe male urogenital and pelvic floor anatomy, identify signs and symptoms of prostatodynia 12. List key medical diagnostic procedures for colorectal conditions.
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Instructors - Nazari
Pany Nazari, PT, DPT, PRPC, BCB-PMD
Dr. Pany Nazari received her BS degree in 1994 from Howard University in Washington, D.C., and her doctorate degree in 2016 from Northeastern University in Boston, MA. For the first decade of her career she focused on mastering the assessment and treatment of a variety of orthopedic issues, with a focus on the spine, sacro-iliac joint, and pelvis. Since 2005, Pany has dedicated her educational and clinical concentration on pelvic floor rehabilitation. Her passion is to use various forms of biofeedback in conjunction with manual therapy along with a strong emphasis on patient education to facilitate optimal function for individuals. She is a fellow and is board certified
in the use of Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Disorders and holds certification as a Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner from the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute.
Pany truly believes that knowledge is power; as mentioned, she has a strong focus on education and increasing awareness of the importance of pelvic health among the community, physicians and other practitioners. Aside from teaching for Herman and Wallace Rehab Institute, she has recently been appointed as a clinical instructor for George Washington University in the Department of Physical Therapy and Health Care Science. She is also continuously expanding her own knowledge by attending various conferences and is a member of the International Pelvic Pain Society and National Vulvodynia Association.
Pany established a tremendously well respected pelvic rehab program at her local hospital from the ground up, where she worked for 18 years. She now works in a multidisciplinary wellness center in McLean, Virginia. Cooking while listening to music, reading, cross-training, and being with her family are some of Pany's other passions.
Instructors - Cathcart
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Price: $695 ($725 within one month of the course) Experience Level: Intermediate Contact Hours: 22.5
This continuing education course is a three-day (8 hours of online content, followed by a 2-day in-person course) intermediate-level seminar designed as a next step in completing the clinicians’ ability to more comprehensively evaluate and treat the female and male pelvic floor. The participant will have the opportunity to learn about two common bowel dysfunctions, fecal incontinence and constipation, and how the pelvic rehabilitation provider can play a crucial role in overcoming these issues that affect quality of life so dramatically. In the US, adult estimates of fecal incontinence is over 8%, and greater than 15% in people over age 70. (Whitehead, 2010) According to the National Institutes of Health, constipation affects up to 15% of people, and is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints that affects 42 million people. (Constipation, 2013) Pelvic rehabilitation providers are able to teach patients how to significantly improve quality of life through simple behavioral techniques and approaches that optimize abdominopelvic health.
Participants will learn how to evaluate the patient who presents with bowel dysfunction including fecal incontinence and constipation, and also with defecation disorders such as paroxysmal puborectalis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and fecal urgency. Knowledge of pelvic anatomy expands into the gastrointestinal system with detailed instruction about the rectum and anal canal, anal sphincters, and with instruction in important physiologic principles such as the gastrocolic reflex, sampling response, and intrinsic defecation reflex. There are other conditions that can cause pain or bleeding such as hemorrhoids, fistulas, fissures, and proctalgia fugax; the clinician will learn how to apply skills of external and internal pelvic muscle assessment (via the anorectal canal) for these conditions.
Many pelvic rehabilitation providers attend this course to learn clinical skills for coccyx pain and for pudendal neuralgia, two conditions that are included on Day 2 of this continuing education course. As either condition can contribute to chronic pelvic pain, this course provides significant lab time so that participants will have the opportunity to practice any new skills. Day 3 of the course introduces the participant to pelvic rehabilitation of the male patient with an emphasis on topics of male pelvic anatomy, urinary incontinence, prostatectomy, and male pelvic pain. The content in this course prepares the therapist to work with male pelvic conditions by reinforcing what is common to the care of both men and women, as well as teaching that which is unique for the male patient. Current medical evaluation (with tests such as defecography, manometry), medical management (for anorectal pain and for colorectal conditions), and evidence-informed clinical interventions will be instructed.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat. It is expected that participants will only register for satellites in which they are within driving distance, and adhere to all state and local COVID guidelines, including wearing a mask at all times during the course.
Special Considerations:
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Rectal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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:
Pelvic Floor Level 1, through Herman & Wallace or Pelvic PT 1 through the APTA is required. Exceptions to this policy may be granted on a case-by-case basis, to inquire about such exceptions please contact us.
Required Readings:
1. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse Handout on Fecal Incontinence 2. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Article on Constipation 3. The International Pelvic Pain Society Article on Pudendal Nerve Entrapment (PNE) 4. The European Urology Association'sGuidelines on Chronic Pelvic Pain 5. Principles of Biofeedback from Professor Tim Watson's website electrotherapy.org
6. Gray's Anatomy for Students - Available at a 25% Discount for Herman & Wallace registrants with promo code 70484. Registrants who already own a copy of this or a corresponding textbook are not required to purchase an additional one.
Constipation. (2013) National Institutes of Health. Retrieved January 22, 2014 from http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/constipation Whitehead, W. E., Borrud, L., Gode, P. S., Meikle, S., Mueller, E. R., Tuteja, A.,...Ye, W. (2009). Fecal incontinence in US adults: epidemiology and risk factors. Gastroenterology, (137)2, 512-517
Recorded Lecture: Watch Before the In-Person Component of the Course
7:30 Registration 8:00 Introduction, Goals, Objectives 8:30 Colorectal Anatomy and Physiology Review, Anorectal Examination 9:15 LAB 1: Anorectal Evaluation: Sidelying Anorectal Examination & Muscle Mapping 10:15 Break 10:30 Fecal Incontinence, Case Study 11:15 Constipation, Case Study 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Pelvic Pain: Prostatitis, Scrotal Pain 2:00 Coccyx Dysfunction 3:00 Break 3:15 LAB 2: External Palpation & Intervention Posterior Pelvis 4:15 Prostatectomy Part I 5:15 Questions 5:30 Adjourn
Day Two:
7:45 Questions from Day 1, Post-test Day 1 8:00 Prostatectomy Part II 8:45 Pudendal 9:45 Break 10:00 LAB 3: Internal Interventions for Coccyx, Pudendal and Pelvic Pain 11:15 LAB 4: Inclusive Language 12:00 Lunch 12:45 Colorectal Conditions 2:00 Break 2:15 LAB 5: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 3:30 Questions 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Describe anatomy of the colorectal region. 2. Explain physiology of the gastrointestinal system including pathophysiology pertaining to bowel dysfunction. 3. Perform examination and evaluation of pelvic floor function related to anorectal structures. 4. Recognize types of fecal incontinence and develop plans of care for intervention including behavioral training and education. 5. Recognize and treat constipation, name the signs, symptoms, and interventions for hemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas, and other common colorectal conditions. 6. Identify specific pelvic floor muscles and key bony landmarks within the anorectal canal. 7. Perform external and internal rectal myofascial treatment techniques such as Thiele’s massage and trigger point release. 8. Perform patient education and behavioral training for constipation, fecal incontinence and pelvic pain syndromes. 9. Describe and teach three SEMG downtraining (relaxation) strategies for the overactive pelvic floor. 10. Describe and demonstrate coccyx evaluation and treatment using internal and external coccyx mobilizations. 11. Describe male urogenital and pelvic floor anatomy, identify signs and symptoms of prostatodynia 12. List key medical diagnostic procedures for colorectal conditions.
Holly Tanner was born and raised in Duluth, Minnesota, and has lived in Washington state for most of her adult life. At Herman & Wallace, Holly is a faculty member and the Director of Education. She owns a private practice that focuses on pelvic rehabilitation and on chronic myofascial pain. She graduated from the College of St. Scholastica in 1995 with a Masters of Arts degree in Physical Therapy and in 2013 she completed a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Prior experience includes working for Apple Physical Therapy where she developed and directed the Women's and Men's Health programs for the company’s many clinics. She is Board-certified in Orthopedics, Women's Health, and in Pelvic Rehabilitation. She teaches continuing education courses nationally, teaches in the transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy program for the College of St. Scholastics, and serves as a consultant for practice and program development. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and the American Massage Therapy Association.
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Price: $695 ($725 within one month of the course) Experience Level: Intermediate Contact Hours: 22.5
This continuing education course is a three-day (8 hours of online content, followed by a 2-day in-person course) intermediate-level seminar designed as a next step in completing the clinicians’ ability to more comprehensively evaluate and treat the female and male pelvic floor. The participant will have the opportunity to learn about two common bowel dysfunctions, fecal incontinence and constipation, and how the pelvic rehabilitation provider can play a crucial role in overcoming these issues that affect quality of life so dramatically. In the US, adult estimates of fecal incontinence is over 8%, and greater than 15% in people over age 70. (Whitehead, 2010) According to the National Institutes of Health, constipation affects up to 15% of people, and is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints that affects 42 million people. (Constipation, 2013) Pelvic rehabilitation providers are able to teach patients how to significantly improve quality of life through simple behavioral techniques and approaches that optimize abdominopelvic health.
Participants will learn how to evaluate the patient who presents with bowel dysfunction including fecal incontinence and constipation, and also with defecation disorders such as paroxysmal puborectalis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and fecal urgency. Knowledge of pelvic anatomy expands into the gastrointestinal system with detailed instruction about the rectum and anal canal, anal sphincters, and with instruction in important physiologic principles such as the gastrocolic reflex, sampling response, and intrinsic defecation reflex. There are other conditions that can cause pain or bleeding such as hemorrhoids, fistulas, fissures, and proctalgia fugax; the clinician will learn how to apply skills of external and internal pelvic muscle assessment (via the anorectal canal) for these conditions.
Many pelvic rehabilitation providers attend this course to learn clinical skills for coccyx pain and for pudendal neuralgia, two conditions that are included on Day 2 of this continuing education course. As either condition can contribute to chronic pelvic pain, this course provides significant lab time so that participants will have the opportunity to practice any new skills. Day 3 of the course introduces the participant to pelvic rehabilitation of the male patient with an emphasis on topics of male pelvic anatomy, urinary incontinence, prostatectomy, and male pelvic pain. The content in this course prepares the therapist to work with male pelvic conditions by reinforcing what is common to the care of both men and women, as well as teaching that which is unique for the male patient. Current medical evaluation (with tests such as defecography, manometry), medical management (for anorectal pain and for colorectal conditions), and evidence-informed clinical interventions will be instructed.
Please note, the Pelvic Floor series of courses typically fill up about 2-3 months before the scheduled course date. It is highly recommended that participants register well in advance to reserve their seats. If you need your employer to send a check for your registration payment, please click the Request Invoice button on the course event page to reserve your seat. It is expected that participants will only register for satellites in which they are within driving distance, and adhere to all state and local COVID guidelines, including wearing a mask at all times during the course.
Special Considerations:
As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Rectal pelvic floor muscle examinations will be taught in labs. Past participants have found that wearing comfortable clothing that is easy for changing (such as skirts or athletic shorts) is very useful for labs. Due to temperature variations from clinic to clinic we would recommend wearing comfortable layers.
PLEASE NOTE: This course includes internal assessment and exam techniques, which will be practiced in partnered pairs in lab time. H&W strives to foster an environment that is safe and supportive. Survivors of past trauma should be aware that performing or experiencing internal exam may be triggering, and that many, regardless of their histories, feel strong emotions when practicing these techniques. In order to foster an environment that is non-triggering and safe for all participants, we recommend all participants consider the emotional impact they may experience during the course, and consider consulting a trauma counselor or therapist prior to attending. Read more about What to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. Teachable is where you will find pre-recorded videos and other pre-requisite learning, manual files, your liability waiver you must sign in order to participate, and any links to Zoom (if the course is a remote option). After the course is over, Teachable is where you will find your post-test and evaluation form to tell us what you thought, as well as your certificate. It is required in Teachable that you complete all components in order. Pre-recorded videos that are required must be watched before going onto the next session.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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:
Pelvic Floor Level 1, through Herman & Wallace or Pelvic PT 1 through the APTA is required. Exceptions to this policy may be granted on a case-by-case basis, to inquire about such exceptions please contact us.
Required Readings:
1. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse Handout on Fecal Incontinence 2. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Article on Constipation 3. The International Pelvic Pain Society Article on Pudendal Nerve Entrapment (PNE) 4. The European Urology Association'sGuidelines on Chronic Pelvic Pain 5. Principles of Biofeedback from Professor Tim Watson's website electrotherapy.org
6. Gray's Anatomy for Students - Available at a 25% Discount for Herman & Wallace registrants with promo code 70484. Registrants who already own a copy of this or a corresponding textbook are not required to purchase an additional one.
Constipation. (2013) National Institutes of Health. Retrieved January 22, 2014 from http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/constipation Whitehead, W. E., Borrud, L., Gode, P. S., Meikle, S., Mueller, E. R., Tuteja, A.,...Ye, W. (2009). Fecal incontinence in US adults: epidemiology and risk factors. Gastroenterology, (137)2, 512-517
Recorded Lecture: Watch Before the In-Person Component of the Course
7:30 Registration 8:00 Introduction, Goals, Objectives 8:30 Colorectal Anatomy and Physiology Review, Anorectal Examination 9:15 LAB 1: Anorectal Evaluation: Sidelying Anorectal Examination & Muscle Mapping 10:15 Break 10:30 Fecal Incontinence, Case Study 11:15 Constipation, Case Study 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Pelvic Pain: Prostatitis, Scrotal Pain 2:00 Coccyx Dysfunction 3:00 Break 3:15 LAB 2: External Palpation & Intervention Posterior Pelvis 4:15 Prostatectomy Part I 5:15 Questions 5:30 Adjourn
Day Two:
7:45 Questions from Day 1, Post-test Day 1 8:00 Prostatectomy Part II 8:45 Pudendal 9:45 Break 10:00 LAB 3: Internal Interventions for Coccyx, Pudendal and Pelvic Pain 11:15 LAB 4: Inclusive Language 12:00 Lunch 12:45 Colorectal Conditions 2:00 Break 2:15 LAB 5: Final Pelvic Rehabilitation Examination, Evaluation, & Treatment 3:30 Questions 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Describe anatomy of the colorectal region. 2. Explain physiology of the gastrointestinal system including pathophysiology pertaining to bowel dysfunction. 3. Perform examination and evaluation of pelvic floor function related to anorectal structures. 4. Recognize types of fecal incontinence and develop plans of care for intervention including behavioral training and education. 5. Recognize and treat constipation, name the signs, symptoms, and interventions for hemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas, and other common colorectal conditions. 6. Identify specific pelvic floor muscles and key bony landmarks within the anorectal canal. 7. Perform external and internal rectal myofascial treatment techniques such as Thiele’s massage and trigger point release. 8. Perform patient education and behavioral training for constipation, fecal incontinence and pelvic pain syndromes. 9. Describe and teach three SEMG downtraining (relaxation) strategies for the overactive pelvic floor. 10. Describe and demonstrate coccyx evaluation and treatment using internal and external coccyx mobilizations. 11. Describe male urogenital and pelvic floor anatomy, identify signs and symptoms of prostatodynia 12. List key medical diagnostic procedures for colorectal conditions.
Stacey Futterman Tauriello, PT, MPT, WCS, BCB-PMD, PPRC, received her Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy from Nova Southeastern University in South Florida in 1996. After graduation she relocated to Chicago where she began specializing in women’s health issues including the treatment of incontinence, pelvic pain and prenatal/postpartum musculoskeletal issues. She returned to the east coast in 2003 and is now the owner of 5 Point Physical Therapy, a specialty physical therapy clinic for male and female pelvic dysfunction in New York City. Stacey, along side Dr. Deborah Coady, recently presented for International Pelvic Pain Society’s annual meeting in Chicago on their research of hip pathology and its relationship to pelvic pain. She has been featured on CBS New York and has presented for the APTA National Conference 2007 for the treatment of male pelvic pain.
Holly Tanner, PT, DPT, MA, OCS, WCS, PRPC, LMP, BCB-PMB, CCI was born and raised in Duluth, Minnesota. At Herman & Wallace, Holly is a faculty member and the Director of Education. She owns a private practice that focuses on pelvic rehabilitation and on chronic myofascial pain. She graduated from the College of St. Scholastica in 1995 with a Masters of Arts degree in Physical Therapy and in 2013 she completed a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. She is also a licensed massage practitioner, licensed in Washington since 2003. Prior experience includes working for Apple Physical Therapy where she developed and directed the Women's and Men's Health programs for the company’s many clinics. She is Board-certified in Orthopedics, Women's Health, and is also certified in Pelvic Rehabilitation and in Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction Biofeedback. Holly served as adjunct faculty at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, WA, and at the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, MN, for whom she continues to teach in the transitional DPT program. Along with H&W faculty member Stacey Futterman she co-authored the "Male Pelvic Floor Function, Dysfunction, and Treatment" course. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and the American Massage Therapy Association. Her physical therapy and massage practice, Flow Rehab, is located in the Fremont neighborhood of Seattle.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Pelvic Function Level 2B (PF2B) is an intermediate-level course which covers increased specificity of evaluation for urogynecologic conditions as well as an overview of medical management, and multi-disciplinary pelvic healthcare. This course is intended for the pelvic health clinician who treats patients with conditions including urinary incontinence, chronic pelvic pain (CPP), and pelvic organ prolapse. Participants will understand how diagnoses such as interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS), urinary tract infections, vaginismus, vulvar pain, dyspareunia, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis may be improved with pelvic rehabilitation. This course was designed as a progression of knowledge and skills learned in the foundational course of our Pelvic Function Series: Pelvic Function Level 1: Introduction to Pelvic Health. The information contained in this course is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Practical, trauma aware, hands-on labs will include an external abdominal and pelvic and internal vaginal approach. Labs will focus on pelvic structures in relationship to the vaginal canal and surrounding structures such as the lumbopelvic nerves, the uterus, urethra, bladder, and rectum. Interventions instructed will include patient management of trunk and pelvic pressure, relaxation training, breathing, and manual therapies for a variety of pelvic dysfunctions. The information contained in this course is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
For pelvic conditions, the clinician will learn to: -- Recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities for specific conditions -- Use an evaluation/outcome tool appropriate to the patient’s concerns -- Design a multi-modal plan of care for pelvic rehabilitation -- Perform clinical interventions based on the patient’s needs and goals
Clinical treatment interventions will include patient education, neuro re-education, therapeutic exercisemanual therapy, therapeutic activities, instruction in self-care, and recommendations for relevant modalities
Prerequisites Our course Pelvic Function Level 1 or Pelvic PT 1 through the APTA, is required. Exceptions to this policy may be granted on a case-by-case basis, to inquire about such exceptions please contact us.
Pre-Course Learning Requirements 10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. In Teachable, registrants will find recorded video lectures (all recorded video lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class), other pre-requisite learning materials, course manual files, mandatory liability waiver, and URLs for any Zoom meetings. We require registrants to complete teachable components in sequential order. Videos lectures are required and must be completed in-full before proceeding to the next Teachable section. At the conclusion of the course, registrants can access their post-test and course evaluation form to provide our curriculum team feedback on their experience, as well as download their certificate of completion - all via Teachable.
Audience This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Read more aboutWhat to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 7 hours
1) Pelvic Rehab Concepts, Anatomy, & Specific Palpation (37 min) 2) Trauma-informed Care (55 min) 3) Prolapse (41 min) 4) Medical and Multidisciplinary Management of Pelvic Pain (38 min) 5) Specific Conditions: Vulvar Pain, Dyspareunia, Vaginismus (45 min) 6) Specific Conditions: Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome, UTI (43 minutes) 7) Specific Conditions: Endometriosis, PCOS (61 min) 8) Neuromuscular Relaxation Training (39 min) 9) Abdominal Neuromyofascial Anatomy (39 min) 10) Breathing and Pressure Management (31 min)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction to abdominopelvic pain and urogynecologic conditions, goals & objectives
7:00 - Abdominopelvic pain and anatomical mapping 8:00 - Lab 1 Prep: Internal vaginal layer palpation and prolapse assessment 8:30 - Break 8:45 - LAB 1: Internal vaginal layer palpation and prolapse assessment 10:15 - Lab synthesis discussion 10:30 - Lunch/Meal Break 11:30 - Prolapse, recovery, and pessary referrals 12:15 - Lab 2 Prep: Breathing & Trunk Mobility, Stability 12:50 - LAB 2: Breathing & Trunk Mobility, Stability 1:30 - Break 1:45 - Vulvar skin conditions and topical medications 2:30 - Case Discussions Part I 3:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 3 Prep: Abdominal neuromyofascial techniques 7:15 - LAB 3: Abdominal neuromyofascial techniques 8:30 - Break 8:45 - Lab 5 Prep: Abdominopelvic and Internal Vaginal Interventions 9:30 - Lab 4: Relaxation techniques 10:30 - Lunch/Meal Break 11:15 - Lab 5: Abdominopelvic and Internal Vaginal Interventions 12:45 - Case Discussions Part II 1:45 - Course Synthesis Discussion 2:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of the urogynecologic systems with reference to specific vulvovaginal conditions, pelvic organ prolapse (POP), interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS), and urinary tract infections (UTIs), and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis
2. Perform detailed and specific pelvic anatomy mapping related to external and internal vulvovaginal conditions
3. Incorporate informed consent, trauma-informed care and an approach that is sensitive to culture and religious beliefs for evaluation and intervention skills.
4. Describe 3 theories of neuromuscular relaxation and how to perform guided relaxation techniques
5. Describe necessity of medical referral and screening as appropriate for vulvovaginal conditions, POP, IC/PBS, and UTIs, PCOS, and endometriosis
6. Describe common medical testing, common medical procedures, and multidisciplinary care for vulvovaginal conditions, POP, IC/PBS, and UTIs, PCOS, and endometriosis
7. Perform examination, evaluation, and develop plan of care appropriate for pelvic dysfunctions including vaginismus, vulvodynia, dyspareunia, POP, PCOS, IC/PBS, UTI, and endometriosis
8. Recognize signs, symptoms, and rehabilitation interventions for common colorectal conditions such as vaginismus, vulvodynia, dyspareunia, POP, PCOS, IC/PBS, UTI, and endometriosis
9. Identify patient selection criteria for pessary and identify the role of the rehabilitation provider in pessary fitting
10. Describe and demonstrate abdominal wall evaluation and treatment interventions of manual therapy, and specific therapeutic exercise for transversus abdominis, diastasis recti, nerve dysfunction, and myofascial pain
11. Perform internal vaginal myofascial and soft tissue treatment techniques to the pelvic floor and pelvic wall muscles
12. Recognize need for medical consultation for vulvar skin conditions including but not limited to vaginal atrophy, disease conditions, lesions, abnormal coloring and texture, genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location:
Pamela Downey, MSPT, DPT, WCS, BCB-PMD, PRPC
Pamela A. Downey, PT, DPT, WCS, BCB-PMD, PRPC, is a Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Women’s Health Physical Therapy and Board Certified in Biofeedback for Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction. Owner of Partnership in Therapy, a private practice in Coral Gables, Florida, she treats women and men with pelvic floor dysfunction, related urogynecological and colorectal issues, spine dysfunction, osteoporosis and complaints associated with pregnancy and the postpartum period. Her mission is to educate and integrate healthy lifestyles for patients on the road to wellness.
Dr. Downey has been honored to teach with the Herman and Wallace Institute since 2006. She is an Adjunct Professor in the Physical Therapy Program at the University Of Miami Miller School of Medicine in Coral Gables, Florida, and Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. A certified Polestar Pilates Educator, she utilizes Pilates and therapeutic exercise interventions specifically designed for patients with pre/post-natal, pelvic floor muscle and other lumbo-pelvic pain-related dysfunctions.
Dr. Downey received her Bachelor of Arts from Sarah Lawrence College and her Master of Science and Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Miami School Of Medicine. She is actively involved in professional activities of the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association, presently sitting as Coordinator of Research Submissions for annual meetings and as a manuscript reviewer for the Journal of Women’s Health. Dr. Downey has lectured nationally and internationally at professional conferences and is the author of multiple published research articles and a book chapter on chronic pelvic pain in the medical text, Women’s Health in Physical Therapy.
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Pelvic Floor Level 2B - Royal Oak, MI - June 26-28, 2020 (Rescheduled)
Update 05/22/2020: As a precaution against the spread of COVID-19, this course has been postponed. We are offering Urogynecologic topics for the pelvic rehab therapist in it's place. Please take a look and let us know if you would like to transfer your registration. We appreciate your understanding during this difficult time. Please practice good hygiene, and be safe!
Pelvic Function Level 2B (PF2B) is an intermediate-level course which covers increased specificity of evaluation for urogynecologic conditions as well as an overview of medical management, and multi-disciplinary pelvic healthcare. This course is intended for the pelvic health clinician who treats patients with conditions including urinary incontinence, chronic pelvic pain (CPP), and pelvic organ prolapse. Participants will understand how diagnoses such as interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS), urinary tract infections, vaginismus, vulvar pain, dyspareunia, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis may be improved with pelvic rehabilitation. This course was designed as a progression of knowledge and skills learned in the foundational course of our Pelvic Function Series: Pelvic Function Level 1: Introduction to Pelvic Health. The information contained in this course is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
Practical, trauma aware, hands-on labs will include an external abdominal and pelvic and internal vaginal approach. Labs will focus on pelvic structures in relationship to the vaginal canal and surrounding structures such as the lumbopelvic nerves, the uterus, urethra, bladder, and rectum. Interventions instructed will include patient management of trunk and pelvic pressure, relaxation training, breathing, and manual therapies for a variety of pelvic dysfunctions. The information contained in this course is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
For pelvic conditions, the clinician will learn to: -- Recognize the key signs and symptoms that lead to impairment, functional limitations and disabilities for specific conditions -- Use an evaluation/outcome tool appropriate to the patient’s concerns -- Design a multi-modal plan of care for pelvic rehabilitation -- Perform clinical interventions based on the patient’s needs and goals
Clinical treatment interventions will include patient education, neuro re-education, therapeutic exercisemanual therapy, therapeutic activities, instruction in self-care, and recommendations for relevant modalities
Prerequisites Our course Pelvic Function Level 1 or Pelvic PT 1 through the APTA, is required. Exceptions to this policy may be granted on a case-by-case basis, to inquire about such exceptions please contact us.
Pre-Course Learning Requirements 10-14 days before the course, participants will receive an invite to join Teachable, an online learning platform. In Teachable, registrants will find recorded video lectures (all recorded video lectures must be completed before attending the first day of class), other pre-requisite learning materials, course manual files, mandatory liability waiver, and URLs for any Zoom meetings. We require registrants to complete teachable components in sequential order. Videos lectures are required and must be completed in-full before proceeding to the next Teachable section. At the conclusion of the course, registrants can access their post-test and course evaluation form to provide our curriculum team feedback on their experience, as well as download their certificate of completion - all via Teachable.
Audience This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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.
Special Considerations As this continuing education course includes extensive lab work, all course attendees should come prepared to participate as both clinician and patient. Read more aboutWhat to Expect During Courses with Internal Lab Work.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 7 hours
1) Pelvic Rehab Concepts, Anatomy, & Specific Palpation (37 min) 2) Trauma-informed Care (55 min) 3) Prolapse (41 min) 4) Medical and Multidisciplinary Management of Pelvic Pain (38 min) 5) Specific Conditions: Vulvar Pain, Dyspareunia, Vaginismus (45 min) 6) Specific Conditions: Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome, UTI (43 minutes) 7) Specific Conditions: Endometriosis, PCOS (61 min) 8) Neuromuscular Relaxation Training (39 min) 9) Abdominal Neuromyofascial Anatomy (39 min) 10) Breathing and Pressure Management (31 min)
============================= Day One
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Introduction to abdominopelvic pain and urogynecologic conditions, goals & objectives
7:00 - Abdominopelvic pain and anatomical mapping 8:00 - Lab 1 Prep: Internal vaginal layer palpation and prolapse assessment 8:30 - Break 8:45 - LAB 1: Internal vaginal layer palpation and prolapse assessment 10:15 - Lab synthesis discussion 10:30 - Lunch/Meal Break 11:30 - Prolapse, recovery, and pessary referrals 12:15 - Lab 2 Prep: Breathing & Trunk Mobility, Stability 12:50 - LAB 2: Breathing & Trunk Mobility, Stability 1:30 - Break 1:45 - Vulvar skin conditions and topical medications 2:30 - Case Discussions Part I 3:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
6:00 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 6:30 am PST - Course begins / Questions from Day 1 6:45 - Lab 3 Prep: Abdominal neuromyofascial techniques 7:15 - LAB 3: Abdominal neuromyofascial techniques 8:30 - Break 8:45 - Lab 5 Prep: Abdominopelvic and Internal Vaginal Interventions 9:30 - Lab 4: Relaxation techniques 10:30 - Lunch/Meal Break 11:15 - Lab 5: Abdominopelvic and Internal Vaginal Interventions 12:45 - Case Discussions Part II 1:45 - Course Synthesis Discussion 2:00 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Identify anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of the urogynecologic systems with reference to specific vulvovaginal conditions, pelvic organ prolapse (POP), interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS), and urinary tract infections (UTIs), and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis
2. Perform detailed and specific pelvic anatomy mapping related to external and internal vulvovaginal conditions
3. Incorporate informed consent, trauma-informed care and an approach that is sensitive to culture and religious beliefs for evaluation and intervention skills.
4. Describe 3 theories of neuromuscular relaxation and how to perform guided relaxation techniques
5. Describe necessity of medical referral and screening as appropriate for vulvovaginal conditions, POP, IC/PBS, and UTIs, PCOS, and endometriosis
6. Describe common medical testing, common medical procedures, and multidisciplinary care for vulvovaginal conditions, POP, IC/PBS, and UTIs, PCOS, and endometriosis
7. Perform examination, evaluation, and develop plan of care appropriate for pelvic dysfunctions including vaginismus, vulvodynia, dyspareunia, POP, PCOS, IC/PBS, UTI, and endometriosis
8. Recognize signs, symptoms, and rehabilitation interventions for common colorectal conditions such as vaginismus, vulvodynia, dyspareunia, POP, PCOS, IC/PBS, UTI, and endometriosis
9. Identify patient selection criteria for pessary and identify the role of the rehabilitation provider in pessary fitting
10. Describe and demonstrate abdominal wall evaluation and treatment interventions of manual therapy, and specific therapeutic exercise for transversus abdominis, diastasis recti, nerve dysfunction, and myofascial pain
11. Perform internal vaginal myofascial and soft tissue treatment techniques to the pelvic floor and pelvic wall muscles
12. Recognize need for medical consultation for vulvar skin conditions including but not limited to vaginal atrophy, disease conditions, lesions, abnormal coloring and texture, genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location:Click here if map is not shown below.
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Jennafer "Jenna" Ross, MSPT, BCB-PMD, PRPC
After graduating from Ithaca College, Jenna began her career as a physical therapist at Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids, MI. Since 2002 she has focused her professional attention on treating women, men, and children with pelvic health disorders. She is energized through education and enjoys her position as adjunct faculty at Grand Valley University, speaking at community events, organizing a regional pelvic floor mentorship and study group, and didn’t necessarily enjoy but survived part-time home-schooling her two daughters. She has been faculty for Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute since 2009 and loves to inspire other rehab professionals treating pelvic floor dysfunction. She is the author of the chapter, “Manual Therapy for the Pelvic Floor” which was published in the book, “Healing in Urology.” Jenna was a contributing writer for the Pelvic Floor Capstone curriculum and also co-authored the continuing education course, “Boundaries, Self-Care and Meditation Part 1” and “Boundaries, Self-Care and Meditation Part 2” with Nari Clemons. She is certified in pelvic floor rehabilitation and biofeedback for pelvic floor disorders. Outside of teaching and treating patients, Jenna loves to spend time with family and friends, run, cook, travel, do yoga and snuggle with her doggo.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
This first course in our Pelvic Function Series, Pelvic Function Level 1 or PF1, is designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic health, pelvic dysfunction, and interventions for rehabilitation. We created PF1 for the pelvic health clinician who treats patients with conditions including urinary incontinence, chronic pelvic pain (CPP), and pelvic organ prolapse. Participants will understand how diagnoses such as interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS), pelvic neuralgias, vulvar pain, and dyspareunia may be improved with pelvic rehabilitation. Practical, supervised, hands-on labs will include an external perineal and anorectal approach and internal vaginal examination. The information contained in this course is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
This first course in our Pelvic Function Series, Pelvic Function Level 1 or PF1, is designed to provide a thorough introduction to pelvic health, pelvic dysfunction, and interventions for rehabilitation. We created PF1 for the pelvic health clinician who treats patients with conditions including urinary incontinence, chronic pelvic pain (CPP), and pelvic organ prolapse. Participants will understand how diagnoses such as interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS), pelvic neuralgias, vulvar pain, and dyspareunia may be improved with pelvic rehabilitation. Practical, supervised, hands-on labs will include an external perineal and anorectal approach and internal vaginal examination. The information contained in this course is immediately applicable to clinical practice.
This two-day remote continuing education course is intended for the practitioner who is already familiar with basic rehabilitation concepts in the pregnant and postpartum population, as provided through the Pregnancy Rehabilitation (in person or remote) and the Postpartum Rehabilitation (in person or remote) courses, and includes lab activities designed to enhance the practitioners’ skills for working with special perinatal populations, in addition to diving deeper into medical and psychosocial topics related to pregnancy and postpartum.
Prior to the remote live portion of the course, participants will be able to view pre-recorded lectures at their own pace on the online platform Teachable. In these videos, the following pregnancy- and postpartum-related topics will be covered: Dysfunctional labor and birth complications, as well as their impact on birthing outcomes and postpartum recovery. Consideration of birth locations (hospital, birthing center, and home) and birthing attendants will be reviewed, and how the rehabilitation professional may play a role in the labor and birth process. An overview of the effects of prior abuse experienced by the patient and how it effects pregnancy, birth, and parenting will be covered. Gynecologic surgeries and medical treatment related to reproductive health will be described, such as tubal ligation, post-birth hysterectomy, and surgical procedures to address fertility issues. High-risk pregnancy will be defined, with many common high-risk pregnancy diagnoses, their red flags, and implications for rehabilitation professionals being discussed. Basic resources and information about pregnancy and parenting with disabilities will also be covered.
During the live interactive portions of this course, we will open with management of the patient in a high-risk pregnancy, including activity restriction levels, considerations for examination and treatment, and effects of bed rest on the pregnant and postpartum patient. Lab activities will review safe performance of examination, treatment, and exercise for the patient on bed rest or activity restriction in pregnancy. Case scenarios will provide practice in performing differential diagnosis for high-risk pregnancy/medical conditions versus musculoskeletal problems. Discussion of cultural implications on labor, birth, and postpartum will provide the rehabilitation practitioner with awareness and further understanding of potential client needs. Fertility and reproductive challenges will be reviewed, with consideration for effects of various conditions, such as endometriosis or polycystic ovarian syndrome, on fertility and childbirth.
Lab activities will introduce abdominal myofascial techniques related to these conditions. Review of postpartum management in the acute care will be covered, as well as lab activities for helpful treatment techniques early postpartum. The course will conclude with discussion of exercise, fitness, and wellness during pregnancy, including discussion of the pregnant athlete. Resources for developing prenatal exercise plans and courses will be provided, as well as case discussion for working with patients who wish to exercise through pregnancy.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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:
Completion of the following courses, or courses with similar content: Pregnancy Rehabilitation (in person or remote) and Postpartum Rehabilitation (in person or remote). All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must also be watched before the Live Component of the course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
References Daoud, N., Urquia, M. L., O'Campo, P., Heaman, M., Janssen, P. A., Smylie, J., & Thiessen, K. (2012). Prevalence of Abuse and Violence Before, During, and After Pregnancy in a National Sample of Canadian Women. American Journal of Public Health (0), 1-9.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 3 hours
1) Dysfunctional Labor and Birthing Complications (39 min) 2) Birth Locations and Attendants (15 min) 3) Effects of Abuse on Pregnancy, Birth, and Parenting (28 min) 4) Gynecologic Surgeries and Medical Treatment (28 min) 5) High Risk Pregnancy and Complications (53 min) 6)Pregnancy, Labor, & Birth with Disabilities (19 min)
============================= Day One
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Introductions and Q&A/Review of Pre-Recorded Lectures
9:15 - Managing the Patient through High Risk Pregnancy 10:30 - LAB Examination and Treatment During High Risk Pregnancy 11:15 - BREAK 11:45 - Breakout Cases – High Risk Pregnancy Differential Diagnosis 12:45 - Cultural Implications and Beliefs in Labor, Birth, and Postpartum 1:30 - Breakout Groups – Cultural and Beliefs Impact Activity 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Q&A, Review of previous day
9:15 - Fertility and Reproductive Topics 10:15 - LAB Introduction to Abdominal Myofascial Techniques 10:45 - Acute Postpartum Therapy Strategies 11:30 - BREAK 12:00 - LAB Acute Postpartum Treatment Techniques 12:30 - Exercise & Fitness During Pregnancy 1:30 - BREAK OUT CASES – Exercise During Pregnancy 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Define dysfunctional labor and describe related birthing complications.
2. Describe fertility and various conditions that can affect a person’s fertility and reproduction.
3. Describe common gynecological surgeries and medical treatment related to reproduction and pregnancy.
4. Define high-risk pregnancy and related diagnoses.
5. Differentiate amongst different birth locations and attendants, and their effects on birthing outcomes.
6. Safely provide examination, evaluation, and intervention for the patient on a high-risk pregnancy activity restriction.
7. Provide differential diagnosis between high-risk pregnancy and musculoskeletal diagnoses.
8. Identify resources for pregnancy and parenting with disabilities.
9. Describe various cultural implications and beliefs related to labor, birth, and postpartum.
10. Safely provide examination, evaluation, and intervention for acutely postpartum patients.
11. Describe the effects of a patient’s prior abuse experience on pregnancy, birth, and parenting.
12. Safely prescribe or modify an exercise routine for a pregnant patient.
13. Identify contraindications and precautions for beginning or continuing an exercise routine during pregnancy.
Attending a remote course is easy and safe, and you can do it entirely from the security and comfort of your own home or clinic without having to find a lab partner.
Important thing to note:
- Our policy for applying for continuing education credit for remote courses differs from that of our in-person and satellite lab courses. Read the specific language of the policy here. Depending on the state in which you practice, you may need to submit your own application to your state board or approving body should you wish that it be approved for continuing education credit in your state.
- To attend a remote Herman & Wallace course, registrants will need Zoom video conferencing software. This is a requirement. One can create an account and download the software to their computer at https://zoom.us/
- We use the Pacific Time Zone for all of our remote course start and end times (this is not the case for in-person and satellite lab locations). Please make a note of this and set your calendar accordingly.
- A Zoom account is free to create. Before the meeting, we recommend having a practice Zoom session with a friend or colleague so you can test your microphone, video, and internet connection. You can participate in any remote course from the comfort of your home, but will need a stable internet connection in order to participate. We recommend downloading the software and practicing a call with a friend or colleague prior to your course with us. Zoom also offers video tutorials on their website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/206618765-Zoom-Video-Tutorials.
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
This unique continuing education course addresses topics pertaining to patients during the peripartum period that both the new and the experienced therapist can enjoy. The course begins with a review of labor and delivery, fetal positions and presentations, labor augmentation and induction, and physical therapy in labor. The 2-day course progresses through many areas of "special topics" including conditions that affect fertility such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, thyroidectomies, and a history of cancer. While Caring for Pregnant Patient and Caring for the Postpartum Patient covered many of the common musculoskeletal issues encountered in the peripartum period, this 3rd continuing education course in the Peripartum Series offers more information about connective tissues such as myofascial restrictions and nerve dysfunctions. Gynecologic surgeries and pelvic rehabilitation for the following are included: tubal ligation, vaginal rejuvination, female genital cosmetic surgery, symphysiotomy, and postpartum hysterectomy.
Therapists who are familiar with the evaluation and treatment of women in the peripartum period may find the instruction of caring for special patient populations helpful in clinical practice. Patients who have medical conditions such as spinal cord injury, cystic fibrosis, multiple sclerosis, and lupus face added challenges during pregnancy and postpartum; this continuing education course looks to the research to guide participants' critical thinking towards clinical practice. Components of cultural competence are instructed that include cultural awareness and sensitivity, competent communication between those of differing cultural backgrounds, and cultural beliefs in pregnancy and childbearing practices.
In peripartum, a significant number of women are victims of domestic violence, many times committed by an intimate partner. (Daoud et al., 2012) The US Department of Health and Human Services recommends that intimate partner violence screening should occur as a core part of women's health care; participants will learn about the negative maternal and fetal health impact of abuse and will learn screening and reporting methods as well. Participants will have the opportunity to share a brief exercise "assignment" that is completed prior to attending the course, with assignments also presented by colleagues. There is timed carved out in the schedule to ask the instructor about any peripartum question such as a patient case-related issue, program development, or general treatment of the peripartum patient.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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 recommended that the participant have experience and at least one course in pregnancy and post-partum issues prior to taking this “special topics” course.
Assignments:
Assignment and directions will be sent prior to attendance
References Daoud, N., Urquia, M. L., O'Campo, P., Heaman, M., Janssen, P. A., Smylie, J., & Thiessen, K. (2012). Prevalence of Abuse and Violence Before, During, and After Pregnancy in a National Sample of Canadian Women. American Journal of Public Health (0), 1-9.
Day Two: 8:00 Questions, pre-test 8:30 Marketing, billing 9:15 Issues of abuse in peripartum 10:15 Break 10:30 Specific diseases, disabilities in peripartum 11:45 LUNCH 12:30 Cultural sensitivity 1:30 Case Studies 2:15 BREAK 2:30 "Ask the Expert" 3:30 Questions, post-test 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Describe common medical conditions and recommended endocrine function medical tests during the postpartum period. 2. Define the role of physical therapy during labor and delivery. 3. Evaluate, palpate, and treat various nerve dysfunctions in the pelvis related to peripartum issues. 4. List 3 gynecologic surgeries and specific rehabilitation concepts for each. 5. Instruct in safe and effective pregnancy and postpartum exercise techniques using demonstration. 6. Recognize signs of abuse during pregnancy and postpartum and identify the proper means of reporting. 7. Apply connective tissue mobilization techniques to the abdomen and pelvis. 8. Explain common diseases and disabilities that affect a woman and list typical modifications required to support the female patient during pregnancy and postpartum. 9. Identify issues that may arise due to cultural sensitivity and be able to modify approach to therapy as needed to fit a woman’s belief system.
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
This unique continuing education course addresses topics pertaining to patients during the peripartum period that both the new and the experienced therapist can enjoy. The course begins with a review of labor and delivery, fetal positions and presentations, labor augmentation and induction, and physical therapy in labor. The 2-day course progresses through many areas of "special topics" including conditions that affect fertility such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, thyroidectomies, and a history of cancer. While Caring for Pregnant Patient and Caring for the Postpartum Patient covered many of the common musculoskeletal issues encountered in the peripartum period, this 3rd continuing education course in the Peripartum Series offers more information about connective tissues such as myofascial restrictions and nerve dysfunctions. Gynecologic surgeries and pelvic rehabilitation for the following are included: tubal ligation, vaginal rejuvination, female genital cosmetic surgery, symphysiotomy, and postpartum hysterectomy.
Therapists who are familiar with the evaluation and treatment of women in the peripartum period may find the instruction of caring for special patient populations helpful in clinical practice. Patients who have medical conditions such as spinal cord injury, cystic fibrosis, multiple sclerosis, and lupus face added challenges during pregnancy and postpartum; this continuing education course looks to the research to guide participants' critical thinking towards clinical practice. Components of cultural competence are instructed that include cultural awareness and sensitivity, competent communication between those of differing cultural backgrounds, and cultural beliefs in pregnancy and childbearing practices.
In peripartum, a significant number of women are victims of domestic violence, many times committed by an intimate partner. (Daoud et al., 2012) The US Department of Health and Human Services recommends that intimate partner violence screening should occur as a core part of women's health care; participants will learn about the negative maternal and fetal health impact of abuse and will learn screening and reporting methods as well. Participants will have the opportunity to share a brief exercise "assignment" that is completed prior to attending the course, with assignments also presented by colleagues. There is timed carved out in the schedule to ask the instructor about any peripartum question such as a patient case-related issue, program development, or general treatment of the peripartum patient.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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 recommended that the participant have experience and at least one course in pregnancy and post-partum issues prior to taking this “special topics” course.
Assignments:
Assignment and directions will be sent prior to attendance
References Daoud, N., Urquia, M. L., O'Campo, P., Heaman, M., Janssen, P. A., Smylie, J., & Thiessen, K. (2012). Prevalence of Abuse and Violence Before, During, and After Pregnancy in a National Sample of Canadian Women. American Journal of Public Health (0), 1-9.
Day Two: 8:00 Questions, pre-test 8:30 Marketing, billing 9:15 Issues of abuse in peripartum 10:15 Break 10:30 Specific diseases, disabilities in peripartum 11:45 LUNCH 12:30 Cultural sensitivity 1:30 Case Studies 2:15 BREAK 2:30 "Ask the Expert" 3:30 Questions, post-test 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Describe common medical conditions and recommended endocrine function medical tests during the postpartum period. 2. Define the role of physical therapy during labor and delivery. 3. Evaluate, palpate, and treat various nerve dysfunctions in the pelvis related to peripartum issues. 4. List 3 gynecologic surgeries and specific rehabilitation concepts for each. 5. Instruct in safe and effective pregnancy and postpartum exercise techniques using demonstration. 6. Recognize signs of abuse during pregnancy and postpartum and identify the proper means of reporting. 7. Apply connective tissue mobilization techniques to the abdomen and pelvis. 8. Explain common diseases and disabilities that affect a woman and list typical modifications required to support the female patient during pregnancy and postpartum. 9. Identify issues that may arise due to cultural sensitivity and be able to modify approach to therapy as needed to fit a woman’s belief system.
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location:Click here if map is not shown below.
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
The postpartum woman may be one of the most overlooked clients in health care. Knowing the specific rehabilitation needs to help with common problems and to prevent future problems is the goal of this 2-day beginner level course. For the orthopedic-based practitioner, this course will solidify awareness of common orthopedic needs for the postpartum client. For the non-orthopedic practitioner, this course will provide a foundation for working with the client experiencing common postpartum-related musculoskeletal conditions. The course will open with brief case scenarios that highlight the difference between examination/evaluation in the postpartum vs. non-postpartum population. Labor and birth,birth complication and injuries, postpartum stages and concerns, and Cesarean birth all set the stage for the postpartum client and will be reviewed. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic recovery and return to “normal” during postpartum will be provided, including early postpartum changes in the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
This course will cover examination considerations and modifications specific to postpartum, as well as specific questions to ask during history taking and methods for identifying red flags in postpartum. More comfortable positions during the examination/treatment and common posture/gait/balance changes during postpartum are covered. The participant at this course will understand necessary biomechanics training for daily activities, child care, and breastfeeding. As an expansion from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, participants will be taken through progression in diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) assessment and rehabilitation, including DRA exercises in lecture and lab. Additionally, addressing abdominal wall lengthening and Cesarean scars will be discussed and practiced in lab.
Overview of pelvic floor dysfunction in the postpartum after vaginal birth with external examination techniques will be expanded from the techniques taught during the pregnancy course. Basic bladder and bowel instructions/education for the postpartum client will be provided, along with guidance on when to refer to a pelvic physical therapist. As an advancement from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, progression in assessment and cueing of pelvic floor, transverse abdominis, and multifidus (deep core) muscle activity will be covered in lecture and lab. Lecture and lab will also address assessing and treating abdominal wall trigger points. Providing instruction and treatment in functional use of abdominal muscles with motor control and functional activities and progression of DRA/abdominal wall rehabilitation exercises will be incorporated into lecture and lab activities.
Basic orthopedic focus on common thoracic and cervical/head complaints in the postpartum will be explored during lecture and lab. This course will also briefly review breathing techniques covered during the pregnancy course. Additionally, discussion and lab practice of lumbar and pelvic girdle examination and treatment techniques in the postpartum will expand on topics covered during the pregnancy rehabilitation course. Review and lab practice will be provided for basic examination and treatment of lower and upper extremity birth and labor injuries.
Psychosocial considerations during postpartum will be explored: the “typical” postpartum patient; postpartum depression, anxiety, and psychosis; postpartum recovery after bedrest; collision of reality and expectations; and maternity leave and return to work decisions. Postpartum exercise, fitness, and wellness will ponder the topics of body image and return to fitness and starting exercise in the postpartum. The course concludes with discussion of marketing and billing needs for providing care for the postpartum population.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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: None
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Gutke, A., Ostgaard, H. C., & Oberg, B. (2006) Pelvic girdle pain and lumbar pain in pregnancy: a cohort study of the consequences in terms of health and functioning. Spine, 31(5), E149-E155. Ostgaard, H. C., Anderson, G. B. J., & Karlson, K. (1991). Prevalence of back pain in pregnancy: A review. Spine, 16(5), 549-552.
Day One: 7:30 Registration 8:00 Introduction, Goals, and Objectives 8:15 Overview of the Postpartum Client 9:00 Hormonal and System Changes and Recovery During Postpartum 9:45 Break 10:00 Abdominal Wall: Diastasis Rectus Abdominis and Post-Cesarean 11:00 LAB: Abdominal Wall Assessment and Scar Treatment 12:00 Lunch 1:00 General Examination Considerations for the Postpartum Client 1:30 General Treatment Considerations for the Postpartum Client 2:15 Pelvic Floor Postpartum 3:15 Break 3:30 LAB: Deep Core and DRA Rehabilitation Progression 4:45 Upper and Lower Quarter Concerns in the Postpartum 5:30 Day 1 Post Test and Wrap Up 6:00 Adjourn
Day Two: 8:00 Examination and Evaluation of Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle in the Postpartum 9:00 LAB: Lumbar Spine and Review of Pelvic Girdle Testing and Treatment 10:00 Break 10:15 Examination, Evaluation, and Treatment of Cervical and Thoracic Spine in the Postpartum Client 11:00 LAB: Cervical and Thoracic Spine Examination and Treatment in the Postpartum Client 11:45 Lunch 12:30 Psychosocial Considerations During Postpartum 1:30 Postpartum Exercise and Fitness 2.06 2:30 Interactive Case Studies 3:15 Marketing and Billing 3:45 Day 2 Post Test and Wrap Up 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Define common terminology of the labor and delivery and the postpartum period. 2. Describe the physiologic changes in the postpartum period that assist a woman's body in returning to pre-pregnancy state. 3. List the endocrine system changes, including the risk for thyroid dysfunction, that influence the female patient during the postpartum period. 4. Define the stages of labor, common complications of labor and delivery, and the postpartum red flags. 5. Describe common clinical presentations for perineal trauma and pelvic floor dysfunction. 6. List indications and potential complications of c-section deliveries, as well as principles of c-section recovery. 7. List 2 common conditions and recommended treatment for the spine and trunk, abdomen, pelvic floor, pelvic girdle, upper and lower extremities during the postpartum period. 8. Instruct the postpartum patient in safe return to fitness activities. 9. Describe the challenges that new mothers face and instruct in practical strategies for body mechanics, sleep hygiene, and time management for postpartum recovery. 10. Complete medical screening for conditions in postpartum that require referral.
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
The client who is postpartum may be one of the most overlooked clients in health care. Knowing the specific rehabilitation needs to help with common problems and to prevent future problems is the goal of this 2-day, beginner level course. For the orthopedic-based practitioner, this course will solidify awareness of common orthopedic needs for the postpartum client. For the non-orthopedic practitioner, this course will provide a foundation for working with the client experiencing common postpartum-related musculoskeletal conditions. The course take place live on a remote Zoom meeting, and will open with brief case scenarios that highlight the difference between examination/evaluation in the postpartum vs. non-postpartum population. There will also be prerecorded content which must be viewed prior to participating in the meeting. Labor and birth,birth complication and injuries, postpartum stages and concerns, and Cesarean birth all set the stage for the postpartum client and will be reviewed. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic recovery and return to “normal” during postpartum will be provided, including early postpartum changes in the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
This course will cover examination considerations and modifications specific to postpartum, as well as specific questions to ask during history taking and methods for identifying red flags in postpartum. More comfortable positions during the examination/treatment and common posture/gait/balance changes during postpartum are covered. The participant at this course will understand necessary biomechanics training for daily activities, child care, and breastfeeding. As an expansion from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, participants will be taken through progression in diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) assessment and rehabilitation, including DRA exercises in lecture and lab. Additionally, addressing abdominal wall lengthening and Cesarean scars will be discussed and practiced in lab.
Overview of pelvic floor dysfunction in the postpartum after vaginal birth with external examination techniques will be expanded from the techniques taught during the pregnancy course. Basic bladder and bowel instructions/education for the postpartum client will be provided, along with guidance on when to refer to a pelvic physical therapist. As an advancement from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, progression in assessment and cueing of pelvic floor, transverse abdominis, and multifidus (deep core) muscle activity will be covered in lecture and lab. Lecture and lab will also address assessing and treating abdominal wall trigger points. Providing instruction and treatment in functional use of abdominal muscles with motor control and functional activities and progression of DRA/abdominal wall rehabilitation exercises will be incorporated into lecture and lab activities.
Basic orthopedic focus on common thoracic and cervical/head complaints in the postpartum will be explored during lecture. This course will also briefly review breathing techniques covered during the pregnancy course. Additionally, discussion and lab practice of lumbar and pelvic girdle examination and treatment techniques in the postpartum will expand on topics covered during the pregnancy rehabilitation course. Review and lab practice will be provided for basic examination and treatment of lower and upper extremity birth and labor injuries.
Psychosocial considerations during postpartum will be explored: the “typical” postpartum patient; postpartum depression, anxiety, and psychosis; postpartum recovery after bedrest; collision of reality and expectations; and maternity leave and return to work decisions. Postpartum exercise, fitness, and wellness will ponder the topics of body image and return to fitness and starting exercise in the postpartum. The course concludes with discussion of marketing and billing needs for providing care for the postpartum population.
Audience: This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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: All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Gutke, A., Ostgaard, H. C., & Oberg, B. (2006) Pelvic girdle pain and lumbar pain in pregnancy: a cohort study of the consequences in terms of health and functioning. Spine, 31(5), E149-E155. Ostgaard, H. C., Anderson, G. B. J., & Karlson, K. (1991). Prevalence of back pain in pregnancy: A review. Spine, 16(5), 549-552.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 3.5 hours
1) Overview of the Postpartum Client (40 min) 2) Hormonal and System Changes and Recovery During Postpartum (32 min) 3) Abdominal Wall Rehabilitation Post-Cesarean (38 min) 4) Pelvic Floor Postpartum (48 min) 5) Exam, Eval, and General Treatment Strategies for the Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle in the Postpartum (55 min)
============================= Day One
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Introductions and Review of Pre-Recorded Lectures
9:15 - General Examination and Treatment Considerations for the Postpartum Client 10:00 - Review of Key Concepts related to Postpartum Abdominal Wall 10:30 - Lab: Abdominal Wall Assessment and Scar Treatment (supplies needed: calipers, medical tape measure, felt tip pen, and at least 1 partial roll of kinesiology tape) 12:00 - Break 12:30 - Review of Key Concepts related to Postpartum Pelvic Floor and Deep Core Group Activities 1:00 - Break out Cases: Postpartum Abdominal and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction 1:45 - Lab: Postpartum DRA Rehabilitation Progression (optional supplies needed: large exercise ball and yoga mat) 2:15 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Q&A, Review of Previous Day 9:15 - Upper and Lower Quarter Concerns in the Postpartum 10:00 - Rib Cage Postpartum 10:30 - Lab: Rib Cage Postpartum (supplies needed: towel, sheet, belt, OR yoga strap; and at least 1 partial roll of kinesiology tape) 11:15 - Break Out Cases: Upper and Lower Quarter Concerns in Postpartum 11:45 - Break 12:15 - Psychosocial Considerations During Postpartum 1:15 - Postpartum Exercise and Fitness 2.06 2:15 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Define common terminology of the labor and delivery and the postpartum period. 2. Describe the physiologic changes in the postpartum period that assist a woman's body in returning to pre-pregnancy state. 3. List the endocrine system changes, including the risk for thyroid dysfunction, that influence the female patient during the postpartum period. 4. Define the stages of labor, common complications of labor and delivery, and the postpartum red flags. 5. Describe common clinical presentations for perineal trauma and pelvic floor dysfunction. 6. List indications and potential complications of c-section deliveries, as well as principles of c-section recovery. 7. List 2 common conditions and recommended treatment for the spine and trunk, abdomen, pelvic floor, pelvic girdle, upper and lower extremities during the postpartum period. 8. Instruct the postpartum patient in safe return to fitness activities. 9. Describe the challenges that new mothers face and instruct in practical strategies for body mechanics, sleep hygiene, and time management for postpartum recovery. 10. Complete medical screening for conditions in postpartum that require referral.
Attending a remote course is easy and safe, and you can do it entirely from the security and comfort of your own home or clinic without having to find a lab partner.
Important thing to note:
- Our policy for applying for continuing education credit for remote courses differs from that of our in-person and satellite lab courses. Read the specific language of the policy here. Depending on the state in which you practice, you may need to submit your own application to your state board or approving body should you wish that it be approved for continuing education credit in your state.
- To attend a remote Herman & Wallace course, registrants will need Zoom video conferencing software. This is a requirement. One can create an account and download the software to their computer at https://zoom.us/
- We use the Pacific Time Zone for all of our remote course start and end times (this is not the case for in-person and satellite lab locations). Please make a note of this and set your calendar accordingly.
- A Zoom account is free to create. Before the meeting, we recommend having a practice Zoom session with a friend or colleague so you can test your microphone, video, and internet connection. You can participate in any remote course from the comfort of your home, but will need a stable internet connection in order to participate. We recommend downloading the software and practicing a call with a friend or colleague prior to your course with us. Zoom also offers video tutorials on their website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/206618765-Zoom-Video-Tutorials.
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
The client who is postpartum may be one of the most overlooked clients in health care. Knowing the specific rehabilitation needs to help with common problems and to prevent future problems is the goal of this 2-day, beginner level course. For the orthopedic-based practitioner, this course will solidify awareness of common orthopedic needs for the postpartum client. For the non-orthopedic practitioner, this course will provide a foundation for working with the client experiencing common postpartum-related musculoskeletal conditions. The course takes place live on a remote Zoom meeting, and will open with brief case scenarios that highlight the difference between examination/evaluation in the postpartum vs. non-postpartum population. There will also be pre recorded content which must be viewed prior to participating in the meeting. Labor and birth, birth complications and injuries, postpartum stages and concerns, and Cesarean birth all set the stage for the postpartum client and will be reviewed. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic recovery and return to “normal” during postpartum will be provided, including early postpartum changes in the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
This course will cover examination considerations and modifications specific to postpartum, as well as specific questions to ask during history taking and methods for identifying red flags in postpartum. More comfortable positions during the examination/treatment and common posture/gait/balance changes during postpartum are covered. The participant at this course will understand necessary biomechanics training for daily activities, child care, and breastfeeding. As an expansion from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, participants will be taken through progression in diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) assessment and rehabilitation, including DRA exercises in lecture and lab. Additionally, addressing abdominal wall lengthening and Cesarean scars will be discussed and practiced in the lab.
The client who is postpartum may be one of the most overlooked clients in health care. Knowing the specific rehabilitation needs to help with common problems and to prevent future problems is the goal of this 2-day, beginner level course. For the orthopedic-based practitioner, this course will solidify awareness of common orthopedic needs for the postpartum client. For the non-orthopedic practitioner, this course will provide a foundation for working with the client experiencing common postpartum-related musculoskeletal conditions. The course take place live on a remote Zoom meeting, and will open with brief case scenarios that highlight the difference between examination/evaluation in the postpartum vs. non-postpartum population. There will also be prerecorded content which must be viewed prior to participating in the meeting. Labor and birth,birth complication and injuries, postpartum stages and concerns, and Cesarean birth all set the stage for the postpartum client and will be reviewed. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic recovery and return to “normal” during postpartum will be provided, including early postpartum changes in the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
This course will cover examination considerations and modifications specific to postpartum, as well as specific questions to ask during history taking and methods for identifying red flags in postpartum. More comfortable positions during the examination/treatment and common posture/gait/balance changes during postpartum are covered. The participant at this course will understand necessary biomechanics training for daily activities, child care, and breastfeeding. As an expansion from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, participants will be taken through progression in diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) assessment and rehabilitation, including DRA exercises in lecture and lab. Additionally, addressing abdominal wall lengthening and Cesarean scars will be discussed and practiced in lab.
Overview of pelvic floor dysfunction in the postpartum after vaginal birth with external examination techniques will be expanded from the techniques taught during the pregnancy course. Basic bladder and bowel instructions/education for the postpartum client will be provided, along with guidance on when to refer to a pelvic physical therapist. As an advancement from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, progression in assessment and cueing of pelvic floor, transverse abdominis, and multifidus (deep core) muscle activity will be covered in lecture and lab. Lecture and lab will also address assessing and treating abdominal wall trigger points. Providing instruction and treatment in functional use of abdominal muscles with motor control and functional activities and progression of DRA/abdominal wall rehabilitation exercises will be incorporated into lecture and lab activities.
Basic orthopedic focus on common thoracic and cervical/head complaints in the postpartum will be explored during lecture. This course will also briefly review breathing techniques covered during the pregnancy course. Additionally, discussion and lab practice of lumbar and pelvic girdle examination and treatment techniques in the postpartum will expand on topics covered during the pregnancy rehabilitation course. Review and lab practice will be provided for basic examination and treatment of lower and upper extremity birth and labor injuries.
Psychosocial considerations during postpartum will be explored: the “typical” postpartum patient; postpartum depression, anxiety, and psychosis; postpartum recovery after bedrest; collision of reality and expectations; and maternity leave and return to work decisions. Postpartum exercise, fitness, and wellness will ponder the topics of body image and return to fitness and starting exercise in the postpartum. The course concludes with discussion of marketing and billing needs for providing care for the postpartum population.
Audience: This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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: All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Gutke, A., Ostgaard, H. C., & Oberg, B. (2006) Pelvic girdle pain and lumbar pain in pregnancy: a cohort study of the consequences in terms of health and functioning. Spine, 31(5), E149-E155. Ostgaard, H. C., Anderson, G. B. J., & Karlson, K. (1991). Prevalence of back pain in pregnancy: A review. Spine, 16(5), 549-552.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 3.5 hours
1) Overview of the Postpartum Client (40 min) 2) Hormonal and System Changes and Recovery During Postpartum (32 min) 3) Abdominal Wall Rehabilitation Post-Cesarean (38 min) 4) Pelvic Floor Postpartum (48 min) 5) Exam, Eval, and General Treatment Strategies for the Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle in the Postpartum (55 min)
============================= Day One
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Introductions and Review of Pre-Recorded Lectures
9:15 - General Examination and Treatment Considerations for the Postpartum Client 10:00 - Review of Key Concepts related to Postpartum Abdominal Wall 10:30 - Lab: Abdominal Wall Assessment and Scar Treatment (supplies needed: calipers, medical tape measure, felt tip pen, and at least 1 partial roll of kinesiology tape) 12:00 - Break 12:30 - Review of Key Concepts related to Postpartum Pelvic Floor and Deep Core Group Activities 1:00 - Break out Cases: Postpartum Abdominal and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction 1:45 - Lab: Postpartum DRA Rehabilitation Progression (optional supplies needed: large exercise ball and yoga mat) 2:15 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Q&A, Review of Previous Day 9:15 - Upper and Lower Quarter Concerns in the Postpartum 10:00 - Rib Cage Postpartum 10:30 - Lab: Rib Cage Postpartum (supplies needed: towel, sheet, belt, OR yoga strap; and at least 1 partial roll of kinesiology tape) 11:15 - Break Out Cases: Upper and Lower Quarter Concerns in Postpartum 11:45 - Break 12:15 - Psychosocial Considerations During Postpartum 1:15 - Postpartum Exercise and Fitness 2.06 2:15 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Define common terminology of the labor and delivery and the postpartum period. 2. Describe the physiologic changes in the postpartum period that assist a woman's body in returning to pre-pregnancy state. 3. List the endocrine system changes, including the risk for thyroid dysfunction, that influence the female patient during the postpartum period. 4. Define the stages of labor, common complications of labor and delivery, and the postpartum red flags. 5. Describe common clinical presentations for perineal trauma and pelvic floor dysfunction. 6. List indications and potential complications of c-section deliveries, as well as principles of c-section recovery. 7. List 2 common conditions and recommended treatment for the spine and trunk, abdomen, pelvic floor, pelvic girdle, upper and lower extremities during the postpartum period. 8. Instruct the postpartum patient in safe return to fitness activities. 9. Describe the challenges that new mothers face and instruct in practical strategies for body mechanics, sleep hygiene, and time management for postpartum recovery. 10. Complete medical screening for conditions in postpartum that require referral.
Attending a remote course is easy and safe, and you can do it entirely from the security and comfort of your own home or clinic without having to find a lab partner.
Important thing to note:
- Our policy for applying for continuing education credit for remote courses differs from that of our in-person and satellite lab courses. Read the specific language of the policy here. Depending on the state in which you practice, you may need to submit your own application to your state board or approving body should you wish that it be approved for continuing education credit in your state.
- To attend a remote Herman & Wallace course, registrants will need Zoom video conferencing software. This is a requirement. One can create an account and download the software to their computer at https://zoom.us/
- We use the Pacific Time Zone for all of our remote course start and end times (this is not the case for in-person and satellite lab locations). Please make a note of this and set your calendar accordingly.
- A Zoom account is free to create. Before the meeting, we recommend having a practice Zoom session with a friend or colleague so you can test your microphone, video, and internet connection. You can participate in any remote course from the comfort of your home, but will need a stable internet connection in order to participate. We recommend downloading the software and practicing a call with a friend or colleague prior to your course with us. Zoom also offers video tutorials on their website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/206618765-Zoom-Video-Tutorials.
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
The client who is postpartum may be one of the most overlooked clients in health care. Knowing the specific rehabilitation needs to help with common problems and to prevent future problems is the goal of this 2-day, beginner level course. For the orthopedic-based practitioner, this course will solidify awareness of common orthopedic needs for the postpartum client. For the non-orthopedic practitioner, this course will provide a foundation for working with the client experiencing common postpartum-related musculoskeletal conditions. The course take place live on a remote Zoom meeting, and will open with brief case scenarios that highlight the difference between examination/evaluation in the postpartum vs. non-postpartum population. There will also be prerecorded content which must be viewed prior to participating in the meeting. Labor and birth,birth complication and injuries, postpartum stages and concerns, and Cesarean birth all set the stage for the postpartum client and will be reviewed. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic recovery and return to “normal” during postpartum will be provided, including early postpartum changes in the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
This course will cover examination considerations and modifications specific to postpartum, as well as specific questions to ask during history taking and methods for identifying red flags in postpartum. More comfortable positions during the examination/treatment and common posture/gait/balance changes during postpartum are covered. The participant at this course will understand necessary biomechanics training for daily activities, child care, and breastfeeding. As an expansion from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, participants will be taken through progression in diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) assessment and rehabilitation, including DRA exercises in lecture and lab. Additionally, addressing abdominal wall lengthening and Cesarean scars will be discussed and practiced in lab.
Overview of pelvic floor dysfunction in the postpartum after vaginal birth with external examination techniques will be expanded from the techniques taught during the pregnancy course. Basic bladder and bowel instructions/education for the postpartum client will be provided, along with guidance on when to refer to a pelvic physical therapist. As an advancement from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, progression in assessment and cueing of pelvic floor, transverse abdominis, and multifidus (deep core) muscle activity will be covered in lecture and lab. Lecture and lab will also address assessing and treating abdominal wall trigger points. Providing instruction and treatment in functional use of abdominal muscles with motor control and functional activities and progression of DRA/abdominal wall rehabilitation exercises will be incorporated into lecture and lab activities.
Basic orthopedic focus on common thoracic and cervical/head complaints in the postpartum will be explored during lecture. This course will also briefly review breathing techniques covered during the pregnancy course. Additionally, discussion and lab practice of lumbar and pelvic girdle examination and treatment techniques in the postpartum will expand on topics covered during the pregnancy rehabilitation course. Review and lab practice will be provided for basic examination and treatment of lower and upper extremity birth and labor injuries.
Psychosocial considerations during postpartum will be explored: the “typical” postpartum patient; postpartum depression, anxiety, and psychosis; postpartum recovery after bedrest; collision of reality and expectations; and maternity leave and return to work decisions. Postpartum exercise, fitness, and wellness will ponder the topics of body image and return to fitness and starting exercise in the postpartum. The course concludes with discussion of marketing and billing needs for providing care for the postpartum population.
Audience: This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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: All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Gutke, A., Ostgaard, H. C., & Oberg, B. (2006) Pelvic girdle pain and lumbar pain in pregnancy: a cohort study of the consequences in terms of health and functioning. Spine, 31(5), E149-E155. Ostgaard, H. C., Anderson, G. B. J., & Karlson, K. (1991). Prevalence of back pain in pregnancy: A review. Spine, 16(5), 549-552.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 3.5 hours
1) Overview of the Postpartum Client (40 min) 2) Hormonal and System Changes and Recovery During Postpartum (32 min) 3) Abdominal Wall Rehabilitation Post-Cesarean (38 min) 4) Pelvic Floor Postpartum (48 min) 5) Exam, Eval, and General Treatment Strategies for the Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle in the Postpartum (55 min)
============================= Day One
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Introductions and Review of Pre-Recorded Lectures
9:15 - General Examination and Treatment Considerations for the Postpartum Client 10:00 - Review of Key Concepts related to Postpartum Abdominal Wall 10:30 - Lab: Abdominal Wall Assessment and Scar Treatment (supplies needed: calipers, medical tape measure, felt tip pen, and at least 1 partial roll of kinesiology tape) 12:00 - Break 12:30 - Review of Key Concepts related to Postpartum Pelvic Floor and Deep Core Group Activities 1:00 - Break out Cases: Postpartum Abdominal and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction 1:45 - Lab: Postpartum DRA Rehabilitation Progression (optional supplies needed: large exercise ball and yoga mat) 2:15 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Q&A, Review of Previous Day 9:15 - Upper and Lower Quarter Concerns in the Postpartum 10:00 - Rib Cage Postpartum 10:30 - Lab: Rib Cage Postpartum (supplies needed: towel, sheet, belt, OR yoga strap; and at least 1 partial roll of kinesiology tape) 11:15 - Break Out Cases: Upper and Lower Quarter Concerns in Postpartum 11:45 - Break 12:15 - Psychosocial Considerations During Postpartum 1:15 - Postpartum Exercise and Fitness 2.06 2:15 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Define common terminology of the labor and delivery and the postpartum period. 2. Describe the physiologic changes in the postpartum period that assist a woman's body in returning to pre-pregnancy state. 3. List the endocrine system changes, including the risk for thyroid dysfunction, that influence the female patient during the postpartum period. 4. Define the stages of labor, common complications of labor and delivery, and the postpartum red flags. 5. Describe common clinical presentations for perineal trauma and pelvic floor dysfunction. 6. List indications and potential complications of c-section deliveries, as well as principles of c-section recovery. 7. List 2 common conditions and recommended treatment for the spine and trunk, abdomen, pelvic floor, pelvic girdle, upper and lower extremities during the postpartum period. 8. Instruct the postpartum patient in safe return to fitness activities. 9. Describe the challenges that new mothers face and instruct in practical strategies for body mechanics, sleep hygiene, and time management for postpartum recovery. 10. Complete medical screening for conditions in postpartum that require referral.
Attending a remote course is easy and safe, and you can do it entirely from the security and comfort of your own home or clinic without having to find a lab partner.
Important thing to note:
- Our policy for applying for continuing education credit for remote courses differs from that of our in-person and satellite lab courses. Read the specific language of the policy here. Depending on the state in which you practice, you may need to submit your own application to your state board or approving body should you wish that it be approved for continuing education credit in your state.
- To attend a remote Herman & Wallace course, registrants will need Zoom video conferencing software. This is a requirement. One can create an account and download the software to their computer at https://zoom.us/
- We use the Pacific Time Zone for all of our remote course start and end times (this is not the case for in-person and satellite lab locations). Please make a note of this and set your calendar accordingly.
- A Zoom account is free to create. Before the meeting, we recommend having a practice Zoom session with a friend or colleague so you can test your microphone, video, and internet connection. You can participate in any remote course from the comfort of your home, but will need a stable internet connection in order to participate. We recommend downloading the software and practicing a call with a friend or colleague prior to your course with us. Zoom also offers video tutorials on their website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/206618765-Zoom-Video-Tutorials.
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
The client who is postpartum may be one of the most overlooked clients in health care. Knowing the specific rehabilitation needs to help with common problems and to prevent future problems is the goal of this 2-day, beginner level course. For the orthopedic-based practitioner, this course will solidify awareness of common orthopedic needs for the postpartum client. For the non-orthopedic practitioner, this course will provide a foundation for working with the client experiencing common postpartum-related musculoskeletal conditions. The course takes place live on a remote Zoom meeting, and will open with brief case scenarios that highlight the difference between examination/evaluation in the postpartum vs. non-postpartum population. There will also be pre recorded content which must be viewed prior to participating in the meeting. Labor and birth, birth complications and injuries, postpartum stages and concerns, and Cesarean birth all set the stage for the postpartum client and will be reviewed. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic recovery and return to “normal” during postpartum will be provided, including early postpartum changes in the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
This course will cover examination considerations and modifications specific to postpartum, as well as specific questions to ask during history taking and methods for identifying red flags in postpartum. More comfortable positions during the examination/treatment and common posture/gait/balance changes during postpartum are covered. The participant at this course will understand necessary biomechanics training for daily activities, child care, and breastfeeding. As an expansion from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, participants will be taken through progression in diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) assessment and rehabilitation, including DRA exercises in lecture and lab. Additionally, addressing abdominal wall lengthening and Cesarean scars will be discussed and practiced in the lab.
The client who is postpartum may be one of the most overlooked clients in health care. Knowing the specific rehabilitation needs to help with common problems and to prevent future problems is the goal of this 2-day, beginner level course. For the orthopedic-based practitioner, this course will solidify awareness of common orthopedic needs for the postpartum client. For the non-orthopedic practitioner, this course will provide a foundation for working with the client experiencing common postpartum-related musculoskeletal conditions. The course take place live on a remote Zoom meeting, and will open with brief case scenarios that highlight the difference between examination/evaluation in the postpartum vs. non-postpartum population. There will also be prerecorded content which must be viewed prior to participating in the meeting. Labor and birth,birth complication and injuries, postpartum stages and concerns, and Cesarean birth all set the stage for the postpartum client and will be reviewed. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic recovery and return to “normal” during postpartum will be provided, including early postpartum changes in the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
This course will cover examination considerations and modifications specific to postpartum, as well as specific questions to ask during history taking and methods for identifying red flags in postpartum. More comfortable positions during the examination/treatment and common posture/gait/balance changes during postpartum are covered. The participant at this course will understand necessary biomechanics training for daily activities, child care, and breastfeeding. As an expansion from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, participants will be taken through progression in diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) assessment and rehabilitation, including DRA exercises in lecture and lab. Additionally, addressing abdominal wall lengthening and Cesarean scars will be discussed and practiced in lab.
Overview of pelvic floor dysfunction in the postpartum after vaginal birth with external examination techniques will be expanded from the techniques taught during the pregnancy course. Basic bladder and bowel instructions/education for the postpartum client will be provided, along with guidance on when to refer to a pelvic physical therapist. As an advancement from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, progression in assessment and cueing of pelvic floor, transverse abdominis, and multifidus (deep core) muscle activity will be covered in lecture and lab. Lecture and lab will also address assessing and treating abdominal wall trigger points. Providing instruction and treatment in functional use of abdominal muscles with motor control and functional activities and progression of DRA/abdominal wall rehabilitation exercises will be incorporated into lecture and lab activities.
Basic orthopedic focus on common thoracic and cervical/head complaints in the postpartum will be explored during lecture. This course will also briefly review breathing techniques covered during the pregnancy course. Additionally, discussion and lab practice of lumbar and pelvic girdle examination and treatment techniques in the postpartum will expand on topics covered during the pregnancy rehabilitation course. Review and lab practice will be provided for basic examination and treatment of lower and upper extremity birth and labor injuries.
Psychosocial considerations during postpartum will be explored: the “typical” postpartum patient; postpartum depression, anxiety, and psychosis; postpartum recovery after bedrest; collision of reality and expectations; and maternity leave and return to work decisions. Postpartum exercise, fitness, and wellness will ponder the topics of body image and return to fitness and starting exercise in the postpartum. The course concludes with discussion of marketing and billing needs for providing care for the postpartum population.
Audience: This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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: All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Gutke, A., Ostgaard, H. C., & Oberg, B. (2006) Pelvic girdle pain and lumbar pain in pregnancy: a cohort study of the consequences in terms of health and functioning. Spine, 31(5), E149-E155. Ostgaard, H. C., Anderson, G. B. J., & Karlson, K. (1991). Prevalence of back pain in pregnancy: A review. Spine, 16(5), 549-552.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 3.5 hours
1) Overview of the Postpartum Client (40 min) 2) Hormonal and System Changes and Recovery During Postpartum (32 min) 3) Abdominal Wall Rehabilitation Post-Cesarean (38 min) 4) Pelvic Floor Postpartum (48 min) 5) Exam, Eval, and General Treatment Strategies for the Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle in the Postpartum (55 min)
============================= Day One
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Introductions and Review of Pre-Recorded Lectures
9:15 - General Examination and Treatment Considerations for the Postpartum Client 10:00 - Review of Key Concepts related to Postpartum Abdominal Wall 10:30 - Lab: Abdominal Wall Assessment and Scar Treatment (supplies needed: calipers, medical tape measure, felt tip pen, and at least 1 partial roll of kinesiology tape) 12:00 - Break 12:30 - Review of Key Concepts related to Postpartum Pelvic Floor and Deep Core Group Activities 1:00 - Break out Cases: Postpartum Abdominal and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction 1:45 - Lab: Postpartum DRA Rehabilitation Progression (optional supplies needed: large exercise ball and yoga mat) 2:15 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Q&A, Review of Previous Day 9:15 - Upper and Lower Quarter Concerns in the Postpartum 10:00 - Rib Cage Postpartum 10:30 - Lab: Rib Cage Postpartum (supplies needed: towel, sheet, belt, OR yoga strap; and at least 1 partial roll of kinesiology tape) 11:15 - Break Out Cases: Upper and Lower Quarter Concerns in Postpartum 11:45 - Break 12:15 - Psychosocial Considerations During Postpartum 1:15 - Postpartum Exercise and Fitness 2.06 2:15 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Define common terminology of the labor and delivery and the postpartum period. 2. Describe the physiologic changes in the postpartum period that assist a woman's body in returning to pre-pregnancy state. 3. List the endocrine system changes, including the risk for thyroid dysfunction, that influence the female patient during the postpartum period. 4. Define the stages of labor, common complications of labor and delivery, and the postpartum red flags. 5. Describe common clinical presentations for perineal trauma and pelvic floor dysfunction. 6. List indications and potential complications of c-section deliveries, as well as principles of c-section recovery. 7. List 2 common conditions and recommended treatment for the spine and trunk, abdomen, pelvic floor, pelvic girdle, upper and lower extremities during the postpartum period. 8. Instruct the postpartum patient in safe return to fitness activities. 9. Describe the challenges that new mothers face and instruct in practical strategies for body mechanics, sleep hygiene, and time management for postpartum recovery. 10. Complete medical screening for conditions in postpartum that require referral.
Attending a remote course is easy and safe, and you can do it entirely from the security and comfort of your own home or clinic without having to find a lab partner.
Important thing to note:
- Our policy for applying for continuing education credit for remote courses differs from that of our in-person and satellite lab courses. Read the specific language of the policy here. Depending on the state in which you practice, you may need to submit your own application to your state board or approving body should you wish that it be approved for continuing education credit in your state.
- To attend a remote Herman & Wallace course, registrants will need Zoom video conferencing software. This is a requirement. One can create an account and download the software to their computer at https://zoom.us/
- We use the Pacific Time Zone for all of our remote course start and end times (this is not the case for in-person and satellite lab locations). Please make a note of this and set your calendar accordingly.
- A Zoom account is free to create. Before the meeting, we recommend having a practice Zoom session with a friend or colleague so you can test your microphone, video, and internet connection. You can participate in any remote course from the comfort of your home, but will need a stable internet connection in order to participate. We recommend downloading the software and practicing a call with a friend or colleague prior to your course with us. Zoom also offers video tutorials on their website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/206618765-Zoom-Video-Tutorials.
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
The postpartum woman may be one of the most overlooked clients in health care. Knowing the specific rehabilitation needs to help with common problems and to prevent future problems is the goal of this 2-day beginner level course. For the orthopedic-based practitioner, this course will solidify awareness of common orthopedic needs for the postpartum client. For the non-orthopedic practitioner, this course will provide a foundation for working with the client experiencing common postpartum-related musculoskeletal conditions. The course will open with brief case scenarios that highlight the difference between examination/evaluation in the postpartum vs. non-postpartum population. Labor and birth,birth complication and injuries, postpartum stages and concerns, and Cesarean birth all set the stage for the postpartum client and will be reviewed. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic recovery and return to “normal” during postpartum will be provided, including early postpartum changes in the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
This course will cover examination considerations and modifications specific to postpartum, as well as specific questions to ask during history taking and methods for identifying red flags in postpartum. More comfortable positions during the examination/treatment and common posture/gait/balance changes during postpartum are covered. The participant at this course will understand necessary biomechanics training for daily activities, child care, and breastfeeding. As an expansion from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, participants will be taken through progression in diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) assessment and rehabilitation, including DRA exercises in lecture and lab. Additionally, addressing abdominal wall lengthening and Cesarean scars will be discussed and practiced in lab.
Overview of pelvic floor dysfunction in the postpartum after vaginal birth with external examination techniques will be expanded from the techniques taught during the pregnancy course. Basic bladder and bowel instructions/education for the postpartum client will be provided, along with guidance on when to refer to a pelvic physical therapist. As an advancement from the pregnancy rehabilitation course, progression in assessment and cueing of pelvic floor, transverse abdominis, and multifidus (deep core) muscle activity will be covered in lecture and lab. Lecture and lab will also address assessing and treating abdominal wall trigger points. Providing instruction and treatment in functional use of abdominal muscles with motor control and functional activities and progression of DRA/abdominal wall rehabilitation exercises will be incorporated into lecture and lab activities.
Basic orthopedic focus on common thoracic and cervical/head complaints in the postpartum will be explored during lecture and lab. This course will also briefly review breathing techniques covered during the pregnancy course. Additionally, discussion and lab practice of lumbar and pelvic girdle examination and treatment techniques in the postpartum will expand on topics covered during the pregnancy rehabilitation course. Review and lab practice will be provided for basic examination and treatment of lower and upper extremity birth and labor injuries.
Psychosocial considerations during postpartum will be explored: the “typical” postpartum patient; postpartum depression, anxiety, and psychosis; postpartum recovery after bedrest; collision of reality and expectations; and maternity leave and return to work decisions. Postpartum exercise, fitness, and wellness will ponder the topics of body image and return to fitness and starting exercise in the postpartum. The course concludes with discussion of marketing and billing needs for providing care for the postpartum population.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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: None
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Gutke, A., Ostgaard, H. C., & Oberg, B. (2006) Pelvic girdle pain and lumbar pain in pregnancy: a cohort study of the consequences in terms of health and functioning. Spine, 31(5), E149-E155. Ostgaard, H. C., Anderson, G. B. J., & Karlson, K. (1991). Prevalence of back pain in pregnancy: A review. Spine, 16(5), 549-552.
Day One: 7:30 Registration 8:00 Introduction, Goals, and Objectives 8:15 Overview of the Postpartum Client 9:00 Hormonal and System Changes and Recovery During Postpartum 9:45 Break 10:00 Abdominal Wall: Diastasis Rectus Abdominis and Post-Cesarean 11:00 LAB: Abdominal Wall Assessment and Scar Treatment 12:00 Lunch 1:00 General Examination Considerations for the Postpartum Client 1:30 General Treatment Considerations for the Postpartum Client 2:15 Pelvic Floor Postpartum 3:15 Break 3:30 LAB: Deep Core and DRA Rehabilitation Progression 4:45 Upper and Lower Quarter Concerns in the Postpartum 5:30 Day 1 Post Test and Wrap Up 6:00 Adjourn
Day Two: 8:00 Examination and Evaluation of Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle in the Postpartum 9:00 LAB: Lumbar Spine and Review of Pelvic Girdle Testing and Treatment 10:00 Break 10:15 Examination, Evaluation, and Treatment of Cervical and Thoracic Spine in the Postpartum Client 11:00 LAB: Cervical and Thoracic Spine Examination and Treatment in the Postpartum Client 11:45 Lunch 12:30 Psychosocial Considerations During Postpartum 1:30 Postpartum Exercise and Fitness 2.06 2:30 Interactive Case Studies 3:15 Marketing and Billing 3:45 Day 2 Post Test and Wrap Up 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Define common terminology of the labor and delivery and the postpartum period. 2. Describe the physiologic changes in the postpartum period that assist a woman's body in returning to pre-pregnancy state. 3. List the endocrine system changes, including the risk for thyroid dysfunction, that influence the female patient during the postpartum period. 4. Define the stages of labor, common complications of labor and delivery, and the postpartum red flags. 5. Describe common clinical presentations for perineal trauma and pelvic floor dysfunction. 6. List indications and potential complications of c-section deliveries, as well as principles of c-section recovery. 7. List 2 common conditions and recommended treatment for the spine and trunk, abdomen, pelvic floor, pelvic girdle, upper and lower extremities during the postpartum period. 8. Instruct the postpartum patient in safe return to fitness activities. 9. Describe the challenges that new mothers face and instruct in practical strategies for body mechanics, sleep hygiene, and time management for postpartum recovery. 10. Complete medical screening for conditions in postpartum that require referral.
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
This two-day, remote continuing education course covers methods for performing assessment and treatment by both telehealth/online consultation and in-person visits for our pregnant clients. Knowing how to safely examine and treat the patient who is pregnant is the goal of this beginner-to-intermediate course.
Prior to the live, online portion of the course, participants will be able to view pre-recorded lectures at their own pace. In these videos, these pregnancy-related topics will be covered: terminology, fertilization, trimesters, medical testing/interventions, imaging, and medications. Differentiating between false labor, progressive labor, and other musculoskeletal pain will be covered. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic changes during pregnancy will be provided, included pregnancy effects on the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems. Additionally, during this self-paced viewing, examination, evaluation, and treatment of common pregnancy-related lumbopelvic conditions will be provided. An introduction to diastasis rectus abdominis, pelvic floor dysfunction, breathing, and deep core assessment/treatment will be provided.
Resource documents will also be provided for preview that will cover history taking with pregnant clients; obstetric red flags and medical screening; and positioning considerations with the pregnant client.
During online live interactive portions of this course, we will open with general examination considerations and modifications specific to pregnancy, including discussion of modalities and manual therapy techniques considered safe or precautioned during pregnancy. Further discussion of pelvic girdle examination, diagnosis, and treatment strategies will be provided, followed by “lab” time with assessment and treatment techniques for the lumbopelvic region. Review of key concepts related to core muscle and diastasis rectus abdominis will lead to “lab” time with assessment and treatment techniques. Progression of stabilization exercises during pregnancy will be practiced. Break out cases will allow time for both small and large group discussion for diagnosis and treatment progression for pregnant clients with lumbopelvic dysfunction or with diastasis rectus abdominis. Finally, to prepare the pregnant client for labor and birth, instruction in perineal stretching, hip and trunk flexibility activities, and TENS for labor will be discussed. “Lab” practice will include labor and birthing positions, with a focus on consideration for positional strategies for women with pre-existing musculoskeletal problems.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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:
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Boissonnault, J. S., & Blaschak, M. J. (1988). Incidence of diastasis recti abdominis during the childbearing year. Physical Therapy, 68(7), 1082-1086. Clapp, J. F. I. (2002). Exercising through your pregnancy. Omaha, Nebraska: Addicus Books, Inc. Krum, L., & Smith, S. (2005) Educating physical therapists in women's health: recommendations for professional (entry-level) and post-professional curricula. Journal of Physical Therapy Education. 19(2), 31-41. Spitznagle, T., Leong, F., & Van Dillen, L. (2007). Prevalence of diastasis recti abdominis in a urogynecological patient population. International Urogynecology Journal & Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, 18(3), 321-328.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 4 hours
1) Overview of the Pregnant Client (64 min) 2) Hormonal and System Changes During Pregnancy (73 min) 3) Lumbopelvic Examination: Review of Anatomy and Terminology (44 mins) 4) Introduction to Core Concepts, DRA, and PFM (60 mins)
============================= Day One
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Introductions and Q&A/Review of Pre-Recorded Lectures
9:15 - General Examination & Treatment Considerations and Modifications for the Pregnant Client 10:00 - Pelvic Girdle Examination and Diagnosis 10:30 - Lab: Self-Assessment of Lumbopelvic Region (Participants: please have a sturdy surface to lie on such as floor or sturdy coffee table, a hand towel, a belt/ yoga strap/ gait belt, a towel or sheet, and a couple of pillows) 11:30 - Break out case studies: Diagnosing Lumbopelvic Pain During Pregnancy 12:00 - Lunch 12:30 - Review of Key Concepts related to the Core, DRA, and PFM 1:00 - Lab: Deep Core and DRA (Participants: you may want to have a felt tip pen or marker and tape measure.) 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Q&A, Review of previous day 9:15 - Treatment Strategies and Techniques for Spine and Pelvic Girdle During Pregnancy 9:45 - Lab: Treatment Techniques for Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle (Participants: please have a tennis ball, a dowel rod/ broomstick/ fat marker/ round lipstick tube, a belt/ sheet/ towel, and one pillow or ball. A kickball, soccer ball, or volleyball will work well. If you can, you may also want to have 4-5 pillows and a 3-foot piece of TheraBand.) 10:45 - Lab: Progression of Lumbopelvic Stabilization During Pregnancy (Participants: if you are able, please have the following on hand: large exercise ball, footstool, bath towel, and two pieces of TheraBand about 4-5 feet in length) 11:15 - Break out cases 12:00 - Lunch 12:30 - Preparing for Labor & Birth 1:00 - Lab: Labor & Birth Preparation 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Describe basic terminology related to pregnancy, including fertilization, trimesters, and medical testing/interventions. 2. Perform medical screening for obstetric red flags that may require further referral. 3. Differentiate between progressive labor onset and Braxton-Hicks contractions. 4. Describe pregnancy-related hormonal effects throughout the body systems. 5. Differentiate pelvic girdle pain and pregnancy-related low back pain. 6. Safely perform lumbopelvic examination, diagnosis, and treatment with the pregnant client. 7. Differentiate the terms diastasis rectus abdominis and inter-recti distance. 8. Safely perform diastasis rectus abdominis examination, diagnosis, and treatment with the pregnant client. 9. Instruct a pregnant client through a progression of core muscle training. 10. Instruct a pregnant client in labor & birth preparation techniques, including perineal massage, use of TENS, and positioning to minimize impact on pre-existing musculoskeletal conditions.
Attending a remote course is easy and safe, and you can do it entirely from the security and comfort of your own home or clinic without having to find a lab partner.
Important thing to note:
- Our policy for applying for continuing education credit for remote courses differs from that of our in-person and satellite lab courses. Read the specific language of the policy here. Depending on the state in which you practice, you may need to submit your own application to your state board or approving body should you wish that it be approved for continuing education credit in your state.
- To attend a remote Herman & Wallace course, registrants will need Zoom video conferencing software. This is a requirement. One can create an account and download the software to their computer at https://zoom.us/
- We use the Pacific Time Zone for all of our remote course start and end times (this is not the case for in-person and satellite lab locations). Please make a note of this and set your calendar accordingly.
- A Zoom account is free to create. Before the meeting, we recommend having a practice Zoom session with a friend or colleague so you can test your microphone, video, and internet connection. You can participate in any remote course from the comfort of your home, but will need a stable internet connection in order to participate. We recommend downloading the software and practicing a call with a friend or colleague prior to your course with us. Zoom also offers video tutorials on their website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/206618765-Zoom-Video-Tutorials.
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
This two-day, remote continuing education course covers methods for performing assessment and treatment by both telehealth/online consultation and in-person visits for our pregnant clients. Knowing how to safely examine and treat the patient who is pregnant is the goal of this beginner-to-intermediate course.
Prior to the live, online portion of the course, participants will be able to view pre-recorded lectures at their own pace. In these videos, these pregnancy-related topics will be covered: terminology, fertilization, trimesters, medical testing/interventions, imaging, and medications. Differentiating between false labor, progressive labor, and other musculoskeletal pain will be covered. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic changes during pregnancy will be provided, included pregnancy effects on the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems. Additionally, during this self-paced viewing, examination, evaluation, and treatment of common pregnancy-related lumbopelvic conditions will be provided. An introduction to diastasis rectus abdominis, pelvic floor dysfunction, breathing, and deep core assessment/treatment will be provided.
Pregnancy Rehabilitation: Safely Managing Pelvic Girdle and Musculoskeletal Conditions
Course Description
This two-day, remote continuing education course covers methods for performing assessment and treatment by both telehealth/online consultation and in-person visits for our pregnant clients. Knowing how to safely examine and treat the patient who is pregnant is the goal of this beginner-to-intermediate course.
Prior to the live, online portion of the course, participants will be able to view pre-recorded lectures at their own pace. In these videos, these pregnancy-related topics will be covered: terminology, fertilization, trimesters, medical testing/interventions, imaging, and medications. Differentiating between false labor, progressive labor, and other musculoskeletal pain will be covered. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic changes during pregnancy will be provided, included pregnancy effects on the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems. Additionally, during this self-paced viewing, examination, evaluation, and treatment of common pregnancy-related lumbopelvic conditions will be provided. An introduction to diastasis rectus abdominis, pelvic floor dysfunction, breathing, and deep core assessment/treatment will be provided.
Pregnancy Rehabilitation: Safely Managing Pelvic Girdle and Musculoskeletal Conditions
Course Description
This two-day, remote continuing education course covers methods for performing assessment and treatment by both telehealth/online consultation and in-person visits for our pregnant clients. Knowing how to safely examine and treat the patient who is pregnant is the goal of this beginner-to-intermediate course.
Prior to the live, online portion of the course, participants will be able to view pre-recorded lectures at their own pace. In these videos, these pregnancy-related topics will be covered: terminology, fertilization, trimesters, medical testing/interventions, imaging, and medications. Differentiating between false labor, progressive labor, and other musculoskeletal pain will be covered. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic changes during pregnancy will be provided, included pregnancy effects on the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems. Additionally, during this self-paced viewing, examination, evaluation, and treatment of common pregnancy-related lumbopelvic conditions will be provided. An introduction to diastasis rectus abdominis, pelvic floor dysfunction, breathing, and deep core assessment/treatment will be provided.
Pregnancy Rehabilitation: Safely Managing Pelvic Girdle and Musculoskeletal Conditions
Course Description
This two-day, remote continuing education course covers methods for performing assessment and treatment by both telehealth/online consultation and in-person visits for our pregnant clients. Knowing how to safely examine and treat the patient who is pregnant is the goal of this beginner-to-intermediate course.
Prior to the live, online portion of the course, participants will be able to view pre-recorded lectures at their own pace. In these videos, these pregnancy-related topics will be covered: terminology, fertilization, trimesters, medical testing/interventions, imaging, and medications. Differentiating between false labor, progressive labor, and other musculoskeletal pain will be covered. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic changes during pregnancy will be provided, included pregnancy effects on the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems. Additionally, during this self-paced viewing, examination, evaluation, and treatment of common pregnancy-related lumbopelvic conditions will be provided. An introduction to diastasis rectus abdominis, pelvic floor dysfunction, breathing, and deep core assessment/treatment will be provided.
This two-day, remote continuing education course covers methods for performing assessment and treatment by both telehealth/online consultation and in-person visits for our pregnant clients. Knowing how to safely examine and treat the patient who is pregnant is the goal of this beginner-to-intermediate course.
Prior to the live, online portion of the course, participants will be able to view pre-recorded lectures at their own pace. In these videos, these pregnancy-related topics will be covered: terminology, fertilization, trimesters, medical testing/interventions, imaging, and medications. Differentiating between false labor, progressive labor, and other musculoskeletal pain will be covered. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic changes during pregnancy will be provided, included pregnancy effects on the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems. Additionally, during this self-paced viewing, examination, evaluation, and treatment of common pregnancy-related lumbopelvic conditions will be provided. An introduction to diastasis rectus abdominis, pelvic floor dysfunction, breathing, and deep core assessment/treatment will be provided.
Resource documents will also be provided for preview that will cover history taking with pregnant clients; obstetric red flags and medical screening; and positioning considerations with the pregnant client.
During online live interactive portions of this course, we will open with general examination considerations and modifications specific to pregnancy, including discussion of modalities and manual therapy techniques considered safe or precautioned during pregnancy. Further discussion of pelvic girdle examination, diagnosis, and treatment strategies will be provided, followed by “lab” time with assessment and treatment techniques for the lumbopelvic region. Review of key concepts related to core muscle and diastasis rectus abdominis will lead to “lab” time with assessment and treatment techniques. Progression of stabilization exercises during pregnancy will be practiced. Break out cases will allow time for both small and large group discussion for diagnosis and treatment progression for pregnant clients with lumbopelvic dysfunction or with diastasis rectus abdominis. Finally, to prepare the pregnant client for labor and birth, instruction in perineal stretching, hip and trunk flexibility activities, and TENS for labor will be discussed. “Lab” practice will include labor and birthing positions, with a focus on consideration for positional strategies for women with pre-existing musculoskeletal problems.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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:
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Boissonnault, J. S., & Blaschak, M. J. (1988). Incidence of diastasis recti abdominis during the childbearing year. Physical Therapy, 68(7), 1082-1086. Clapp, J. F. I. (2002). Exercising through your pregnancy. Omaha, Nebraska: Addicus Books, Inc. Krum, L., & Smith, S. (2005) Educating physical therapists in women's health: recommendations for professional (entry-level) and post-professional curricula. Journal of Physical Therapy Education. 19(2), 31-41. Spitznagle, T., Leong, F., & Van Dillen, L. (2007). Prevalence of diastasis recti abdominis in a urogynecological patient population. International Urogynecology Journal & Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, 18(3), 321-328.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 4 hours
1) Overview of the Pregnant Client (64 min) 2) Hormonal and System Changes During Pregnancy (73 min) 3) Lumbopelvic Examination: Review of Anatomy and Terminology (44 mins) 4) Introduction to Core Concepts, DRA, and PFM (60 mins)
============================= Day One
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Introductions and Q&A/Review of Pre-Recorded Lectures
9:15 - General Examination & Treatment Considerations and Modifications for the Pregnant Client 10:00 - Pelvic Girdle Examination and Diagnosis 10:30 - Lab: Self-Assessment of Lumbopelvic Region (Participants: please have a sturdy surface to lie on such as floor or sturdy coffee table, a hand towel, a belt/ yoga strap/ gait belt, a towel or sheet, and a couple of pillows) 11:30 - Break out case studies: Diagnosing Lumbopelvic Pain During Pregnancy 12:00 - Lunch 12:30 - Review of Key Concepts related to the Core, DRA, and PFM 1:00 - Lab: Deep Core and DRA (Participants: you may want to have a felt tip pen or marker and tape measure.) 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Q&A, Review of previous day 9:15 - Treatment Strategies and Techniques for Spine and Pelvic Girdle During Pregnancy 9:45 - Lab: Treatment Techniques for Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle (Participants: please have a tennis ball, a dowel rod/ broomstick/ fat marker/ round lipstick tube, a belt/ sheet/ towel, and one pillow or ball. A kickball, soccer ball, or volleyball will work well. If you can, you may also want to have 4-5 pillows and a 3-foot piece of TheraBand.) 10:45 - Lab: Progression of Lumbopelvic Stabilization During Pregnancy (Participants: if you are able, please have the following on hand: large exercise ball, footstool, bath towel, and two pieces of TheraBand about 4-5 feet in length) 11:15 - Break out cases 12:00 - Lunch 12:30 - Preparing for Labor & Birth 1:00 - Lab: Labor & Birth Preparation 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Describe basic terminology related to pregnancy, including fertilization, trimesters, and medical testing/interventions. 2. Perform medical screening for obstetric red flags that may require further referral. 3. Differentiate between progressive labor onset and Braxton-Hicks contractions. 4. Describe pregnancy-related hormonal effects throughout the body systems. 5. Differentiate pelvic girdle pain and pregnancy-related low back pain. 6. Safely perform lumbopelvic examination, diagnosis, and treatment with the pregnant client. 7. Differentiate the terms diastasis rectus abdominis and inter-recti distance. 8. Safely perform diastasis rectus abdominis examination, diagnosis, and treatment with the pregnant client. 9. Instruct a pregnant client through a progression of core muscle training. 10. Instruct a pregnant client in labor & birth preparation techniques, including perineal massage, use of TENS, and positioning to minimize impact on pre-existing musculoskeletal conditions.
Attending a remote course is easy and safe, and you can do it entirely from the security and comfort of your own home or clinic without having to find a lab partner.
Important thing to note:
- Our policy for applying for continuing education credit for remote courses differs from that of our in-person and satellite lab courses. Read the specific language of the policy here. Depending on the state in which you practice, you may need to submit your own application to your state board or approving body should you wish that it be approved for continuing education credit in your state.
- To attend a remote Herman & Wallace course, registrants will need Zoom video conferencing software. This is a requirement. One can create an account and download the software to their computer at https://zoom.us/
- We use the Pacific Time Zone for all of our remote course start and end times (this is not the case for in-person and satellite lab locations). Please make a note of this and set your calendar accordingly.
- A Zoom account is free to create. Before the meeting, we recommend having a practice Zoom session with a friend or colleague so you can test your microphone, video, and internet connection. You can participate in any remote course from the comfort of your home, but will need a stable internet connection in order to participate. We recommend downloading the software and practicing a call with a friend or colleague prior to your course with us. Zoom also offers video tutorials on their website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/206618765-Zoom-Video-Tutorials.
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
This two-day, remote continuing education course covers methods for performing assessment and treatment by both telehealth/online consultation and in-person visits for our pregnant clients. Knowing how to safely examine and treat the patient who is pregnant is the goal of this beginner-to-intermediate course.
Prior to the live, online portion of the course, participants will be able to view pre-recorded lectures at their own pace. In these videos, these pregnancy-related topics will be covered: terminology, fertilization, trimesters, medical testing/interventions, imaging, and medications. Differentiating between false labor, progressive labor, and other musculoskeletal pain will be covered. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic changes during pregnancy will be provided, included pregnancy effects on the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems. Additionally, during this self-paced viewing, examination, evaluation, and treatment of common pregnancy-related lumbopelvic conditions will be provided. An introduction to diastasis rectus abdominis, pelvic floor dysfunction, breathing, and deep core assessment/treatment will be provided.
This two-day, remote continuing education course covers methods for performing assessment and treatment by both telehealth/online consultation and in-person visits for our pregnant clients. Knowing how to safely examine and treat the patient who is pregnant is the goal of this beginner-to-intermediate course.
Prior to the live, online portion of the course, participants will be able to view pre-recorded lectures at their own pace. In these videos, these pregnancy-related topics will be covered: terminology, fertilization, trimesters, medical testing/interventions, imaging, and medications. Differentiating between false labor, progressive labor, and other musculoskeletal pain will be covered. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic changes during pregnancy will be provided, included pregnancy effects on the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems. Additionally, during this self-paced viewing, examination, evaluation, and treatment of common pregnancy-related lumbopelvic conditions will be provided. An introduction to diastasis rectus abdominis, pelvic floor dysfunction, breathing, and deep core assessment/treatment will be provided.
Resource documents will also be provided for preview that will cover history taking with pregnant clients; obstetric red flags and medical screening; and positioning considerations with the pregnant client.
During online live interactive portions of this course, we will open with general examination considerations and modifications specific to pregnancy, including discussion of modalities and manual therapy techniques considered safe or precautioned during pregnancy. Further discussion of pelvic girdle examination, diagnosis, and treatment strategies will be provided, followed by “lab” time with assessment and treatment techniques for the lumbopelvic region. Review of key concepts related to core muscle and diastasis rectus abdominis will lead to “lab” time with assessment and treatment techniques. Progression of stabilization exercises during pregnancy will be practiced. Break out cases will allow time for both small and large group discussion for diagnosis and treatment progression for pregnant clients with lumbopelvic dysfunction or with diastasis rectus abdominis. Finally, to prepare the pregnant client for labor and birth, instruction in perineal stretching, hip and trunk flexibility activities, and TENS for labor will be discussed. “Lab” practice will include labor and birthing positions, with a focus on consideration for positional strategies for women with pre-existing musculoskeletal problems.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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:
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Boissonnault, J. S., & Blaschak, M. J. (1988). Incidence of diastasis recti abdominis during the childbearing year. Physical Therapy, 68(7), 1082-1086. Clapp, J. F. I. (2002). Exercising through your pregnancy. Omaha, Nebraska: Addicus Books, Inc. Krum, L., & Smith, S. (2005) Educating physical therapists in women's health: recommendations for professional (entry-level) and post-professional curricula. Journal of Physical Therapy Education. 19(2), 31-41. Spitznagle, T., Leong, F., & Van Dillen, L. (2007). Prevalence of diastasis recti abdominis in a urogynecological patient population. International Urogynecology Journal & Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, 18(3), 321-328.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 4 hours
1) Overview of the Pregnant Client (64 min) 2) Hormonal and System Changes During Pregnancy (73 min) 3) Lumbopelvic Examination: Review of Anatomy and Terminology (44 mins) 4) Introduction to Core Concepts, DRA, and PFM (60 mins)
============================= Day One
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Introductions and Q&A/Review of Pre-Recorded Lectures
9:15 - General Examination & Treatment Considerations and Modifications for the Pregnant Client 10:00 - Pelvic Girdle Examination and Diagnosis 10:30 - Lab: Self-Assessment of Lumbopelvic Region (Participants: please have a sturdy surface to lie on such as floor or sturdy coffee table, a hand towel, a belt/ yoga strap/ gait belt, a towel or sheet, and a couple of pillows) 11:30 - Break out case studies: Diagnosing Lumbopelvic Pain During Pregnancy 12:00 - Lunch 12:30 - Review of Key Concepts related to the Core, DRA, and PFM 1:00 - Lab: Deep Core and DRA (Participants: you may want to have a felt tip pen or marker and tape measure.) 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Q&A, Review of previous day 9:15 - Treatment Strategies and Techniques for Spine and Pelvic Girdle During Pregnancy 9:45 - Lab: Treatment Techniques for Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle (Participants: please have a tennis ball, a dowel rod/ broomstick/ fat marker/ round lipstick tube, a belt/ sheet/ towel, and one pillow or ball. A kickball, soccer ball, or volleyball will work well. If you can, you may also want to have 4-5 pillows and a 3-foot piece of TheraBand.) 10:45 - Lab: Progression of Lumbopelvic Stabilization During Pregnancy (Participants: if you are able, please have the following on hand: large exercise ball, footstool, bath towel, and two pieces of TheraBand about 4-5 feet in length) 11:15 - Break out cases 12:00 - Lunch 12:30 - Preparing for Labor & Birth 1:00 - Lab: Labor & Birth Preparation 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Describe basic terminology related to pregnancy, including fertilization, trimesters, and medical testing/interventions. 2. Perform medical screening for obstetric red flags that may require further referral. 3. Differentiate between progressive labor onset and Braxton-Hicks contractions. 4. Describe pregnancy-related hormonal effects throughout the body systems. 5. Differentiate pelvic girdle pain and pregnancy-related low back pain. 6. Safely perform lumbopelvic examination, diagnosis, and treatment with the pregnant client. 7. Differentiate the terms diastasis rectus abdominis and inter-recti distance. 8. Safely perform diastasis rectus abdominis examination, diagnosis, and treatment with the pregnant client. 9. Instruct a pregnant client through a progression of core muscle training. 10. Instruct a pregnant client in labor & birth preparation techniques, including perineal massage, use of TENS, and positioning to minimize impact on pre-existing musculoskeletal conditions.
Attending a remote course is easy and safe, and you can do it entirely from the security and comfort of your own home or clinic without having to find a lab partner.
Important thing to note:
- Our policy for applying for continuing education credit for remote courses differs from that of our in-person and satellite lab courses. Read the specific language of the policy here. Depending on the state in which you practice, you may need to submit your own application to your state board or approving body should you wish that it be approved for continuing education credit in your state.
- To attend a remote Herman & Wallace course, registrants will need Zoom video conferencing software. This is a requirement. One can create an account and download the software to their computer at https://zoom.us/
- We use the Pacific Time Zone for all of our remote course start and end times (this is not the case for in-person and satellite lab locations). Please make a note of this and set your calendar accordingly.
- A Zoom account is free to create. Before the meeting, we recommend having a practice Zoom session with a friend or colleague so you can test your microphone, video, and internet connection. You can participate in any remote course from the comfort of your home, but will need a stable internet connection in order to participate. We recommend downloading the software and practicing a call with a friend or colleague prior to your course with us. Zoom also offers video tutorials on their website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/206618765-Zoom-Video-Tutorials.
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
This two-day, remote continuing education course covers methods for performing assessment and treatment by both telehealth/online consultation and in-person visits for our pregnant clients. Knowing how to safely examine and treat the patient who is pregnant is the goal of this beginner-to-intermediate course.
Prior to the live, online portion of the course, participants will be able to view pre-recorded lectures at their own pace. In these videos, these pregnancy-related topics will be covered: terminology, fertilization, trimesters, medical testing/interventions, imaging, and medications. Differentiating between false labor, progressive labor, and other musculoskeletal pain will be covered. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic changes during pregnancy will be provided, included pregnancy effects on the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems. Additionally, during this self-paced viewing, examination, evaluation, and treatment of common pregnancy-related lumbopelvic conditions will be provided. An introduction to diastasis rectus abdominis, pelvic floor dysfunction, breathing, and deep core assessment/treatment will be provided.
Resource documents will also be provided for preview that will cover history taking with pregnant clients; obstetric red flags and medical screening; and positioning considerations with the pregnant client.
During online live interactive portions of this course, we will open with general examination considerations and modifications specific to pregnancy, including discussion of modalities and manual therapy techniques considered safe or precautioned during pregnancy. Further discussion of pelvic girdle examination, diagnosis, and treatment strategies will be provided, followed by “lab” time with assessment and treatment techniques for the lumbopelvic region. Review of key concepts related to core muscle and diastasis rectus abdominis will lead to “lab” time with assessment and treatment techniques. Progression of stabilization exercises during pregnancy will be practiced. Break out cases will allow time for both small and large group discussion for diagnosis and treatment progression for pregnant clients with lumbopelvic dysfunction or with diastasis rectus abdominis. Finally, to prepare the pregnant client for labor and birth, instruction in perineal stretching, hip and trunk flexibility activities, and TENS for labor will be discussed. “Lab” practice will include labor and birthing positions, with a focus on consideration for positional strategies for women with pre-existing musculoskeletal problems.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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:
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Boissonnault, J. S., & Blaschak, M. J. (1988). Incidence of diastasis recti abdominis during the childbearing year. Physical Therapy, 68(7), 1082-1086. Clapp, J. F. I. (2002). Exercising through your pregnancy. Omaha, Nebraska: Addicus Books, Inc. Krum, L., & Smith, S. (2005) Educating physical therapists in women's health: recommendations for professional (entry-level) and post-professional curricula. Journal of Physical Therapy Education. 19(2), 31-41. Spitznagle, T., Leong, F., & Van Dillen, L. (2007). Prevalence of diastasis recti abdominis in a urogynecological patient population. International Urogynecology Journal & Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, 18(3), 321-328.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 4 hours
1) Overview of the Pregnant Client (64 min) 2) Hormonal and System Changes During Pregnancy (73 min) 3) Lumbopelvic Examination: Review of Anatomy and Terminology (44 mins) 4) Introduction to Core Concepts, DRA, and PFM (60 mins)
============================= Day One
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Introductions and Q&A/Review of Pre-Recorded Lectures
9:15 - General Examination & Treatment Considerations and Modifications for the Pregnant Client 10:00 - Pelvic Girdle Examination and Diagnosis 10:30 - Lab: Self-Assessment of Lumbopelvic Region (Participants: please have a sturdy surface to lie on such as floor or sturdy coffee table, a hand towel, a belt/ yoga strap/ gait belt, a towel or sheet, and a couple of pillows) 11:30 - Break out case studies: Diagnosing Lumbopelvic Pain During Pregnancy 12:00 - Lunch 12:30 - Review of Key Concepts related to the Core, DRA, and PFM 1:00 - Lab: Deep Core and DRA (Participants: you may want to have a felt tip pen or marker and tape measure.) 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Q&A, Review of previous day 9:15 - Treatment Strategies and Techniques for Spine and Pelvic Girdle During Pregnancy 9:45 - Lab: Treatment Techniques for Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle (Participants: please have a tennis ball, a dowel rod/ broomstick/ fat marker/ round lipstick tube, a belt/ sheet/ towel, and one pillow or ball. A kickball, soccer ball, or volleyball will work well. If you can, you may also want to have 4-5 pillows and a 3-foot piece of TheraBand.) 10:45 - Lab: Progression of Lumbopelvic Stabilization During Pregnancy (Participants: if you are able, please have the following on hand: large exercise ball, footstool, bath towel, and two pieces of TheraBand about 4-5 feet in length) 11:15 - Break out cases 12:00 - Lunch 12:30 - Preparing for Labor & Birth 1:00 - Lab: Labor & Birth Preparation 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Describe basic terminology related to pregnancy, including fertilization, trimesters, and medical testing/interventions. 2. Perform medical screening for obstetric red flags that may require further referral. 3. Differentiate between progressive labor onset and Braxton-Hicks contractions. 4. Describe pregnancy-related hormonal effects throughout the body systems. 5. Differentiate pelvic girdle pain and pregnancy-related low back pain. 6. Safely perform lumbopelvic examination, diagnosis, and treatment with the pregnant client. 7. Differentiate the terms diastasis rectus abdominis and inter-recti distance. 8. Safely perform diastasis rectus abdominis examination, diagnosis, and treatment with the pregnant client. 9. Instruct a pregnant client through a progression of core muscle training. 10. Instruct a pregnant client in labor & birth preparation techniques, including perineal massage, use of TENS, and positioning to minimize impact on pre-existing musculoskeletal conditions.
Attending a remote course is easy and safe, and you can do it entirely from the security and comfort of your own home or clinic without having to find a lab partner.
Important thing to note:
- Our policy for applying for continuing education credit for remote courses differs from that of our in-person and satellite lab courses. Read the specific language of the policy here. Depending on the state in which you practice, you may need to submit your own application to your state board or approving body should you wish that it be approved for continuing education credit in your state.
- To attend a remote Herman & Wallace course, registrants will need Zoom video conferencing software. This is a requirement. One can create an account and download the software to their computer at https://zoom.us/
- We use the Pacific Time Zone for all of our remote course start and end times (this is not the case for in-person and satellite lab locations). Please make a note of this and set your calendar accordingly.
- A Zoom account is free to create. Before the meeting, we recommend having a practice Zoom session with a friend or colleague so you can test your microphone, video, and internet connection. You can participate in any remote course from the comfort of your home, but will need a stable internet connection in order to participate. We recommend downloading the software and practicing a call with a friend or colleague prior to your course with us. Zoom also offers video tutorials on their website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/206618765-Zoom-Video-Tutorials.
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
This two-day, remote continuing education course covers methods for performing assessment and treatment by both telehealth/online consultation and in-person visits for our pregnant clients. Knowing how to safely examine and treat the patient who is pregnant is the goal of this beginner-to-intermediate course.
Prior to the live, online portion of the course, participants will be able to view pre-recorded lectures at their own pace. In these videos, these pregnancy-related topics will be covered: terminology, fertilization, trimesters, medical testing/interventions, imaging, and medications. Differentiating between false labor, progressive labor, and other musculoskeletal pain will be covered. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic changes during pregnancy will be provided, included pregnancy effects on the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems. Additionally, during this self-paced viewing, examination, evaluation, and treatment of common pregnancy-related lumbopelvic conditions will be provided. An introduction to diastasis rectus abdominis, pelvic floor dysfunction, breathing, and deep core assessment/treatment will be provided.
Resource documents will also be provided for preview that will cover history taking with pregnant clients; obstetric red flags and medical screening; and positioning considerations with the pregnant client.
During online live interactive portions of this course, we will open with general examination considerations and modifications specific to pregnancy, including discussion of modalities and manual therapy techniques considered safe or precautioned during pregnancy. Further discussion of pelvic girdle examination, diagnosis, and treatment strategies will be provided, followed by “lab” time with assessment and treatment techniques for the lumbopelvic region. Review of key concepts related to core muscle and diastasis rectus abdominis will lead to “lab” time with assessment and treatment techniques. Progression of stabilization exercises during pregnancy will be practiced. Break out cases will allow time for both small and large group discussion for diagnosis and treatment progression for pregnant clients with lumbopelvic dysfunction or with diastasis rectus abdominis. Finally, to prepare the pregnant client for labor and birth, instruction in perineal stretching, hip and trunk flexibility activities, and TENS for labor will be discussed. “Lab” practice will include labor and birthing positions, with a focus on consideration for positional strategies for women with pre-existing musculoskeletal problems.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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:
All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must be watched before the Live Component of the course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Boissonnault, J. S., & Blaschak, M. J. (1988). Incidence of diastasis recti abdominis during the childbearing year. Physical Therapy, 68(7), 1082-1086. Clapp, J. F. I. (2002). Exercising through your pregnancy. Omaha, Nebraska: Addicus Books, Inc. Krum, L., & Smith, S. (2005) Educating physical therapists in women's health: recommendations for professional (entry-level) and post-professional curricula. Journal of Physical Therapy Education. 19(2), 31-41. Spitznagle, T., Leong, F., & Van Dillen, L. (2007). Prevalence of diastasis recti abdominis in a urogynecological patient population. International Urogynecology Journal & Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, 18(3), 321-328.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 4 hours
1) Overview of the Pregnant Client (64 min) 2) Hormonal and System Changes During Pregnancy (73 min) 3) Lumbopelvic Examination: Review of Anatomy and Terminology (44 mins) 4) Introduction to Core Concepts, DRA, and PFM (60 mins)
============================= Day One
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Introductions and Q&A/Review of Pre-Recorded Lectures
9:15 - General Examination & Treatment Considerations and Modifications for the Pregnant Client 10:00 - Pelvic Girdle Examination and Diagnosis 10:30 - Lab: Self-Assessment of Lumbopelvic Region (Participants: please have a sturdy surface to lie on such as floor or sturdy coffee table, a hand towel, a belt/ yoga strap/ gait belt, a towel or sheet, and a couple of pillows) 11:30 - Break out case studies: Diagnosing Lumbopelvic Pain During Pregnancy 12:00 - Lunch 12:30 - Review of Key Concepts related to the Core, DRA, and PFM 1:00 - Lab: Deep Core and DRA (Participants: you may want to have a felt tip pen or marker and tape measure.) 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Q&A, Review of previous day 9:15 - Treatment Strategies and Techniques for Spine and Pelvic Girdle During Pregnancy 9:45 - Lab: Treatment Techniques for Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle (Participants: please have a tennis ball, a dowel rod/ broomstick/ fat marker/ round lipstick tube, a belt/ sheet/ towel, and one pillow or ball. A kickball, soccer ball, or volleyball will work well. If you can, you may also want to have 4-5 pillows and a 3-foot piece of TheraBand.) 10:45 - Lab: Progression of Lumbopelvic Stabilization During Pregnancy (Participants: if you are able, please have the following on hand: large exercise ball, footstool, bath towel, and two pieces of TheraBand about 4-5 feet in length) 11:15 - Break out cases 12:00 - Lunch 12:30 - Preparing for Labor & Birth 1:00 - Lab: Labor & Birth Preparation 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Describe basic terminology related to pregnancy, including fertilization, trimesters, and medical testing/interventions. 2. Perform medical screening for obstetric red flags that may require further referral. 3. Differentiate between progressive labor onset and Braxton-Hicks contractions. 4. Describe pregnancy-related hormonal effects throughout the body systems. 5. Differentiate pelvic girdle pain and pregnancy-related low back pain. 6. Safely perform lumbopelvic examination, diagnosis, and treatment with the pregnant client. 7. Differentiate the terms diastasis rectus abdominis and inter-recti distance. 8. Safely perform diastasis rectus abdominis examination, diagnosis, and treatment with the pregnant client. 9. Instruct a pregnant client through a progression of core muscle training. 10. Instruct a pregnant client in labor & birth preparation techniques, including perineal massage, use of TENS, and positioning to minimize impact on pre-existing musculoskeletal conditions.
Attending a remote course is easy and safe, and you can do it entirely from the security and comfort of your own home or clinic without having to find a lab partner.
Important thing to note:
- Our policy for applying for continuing education credit for remote courses differs from that of our in-person and satellite lab courses. Read the specific language of the policy here. Depending on the state in which you practice, you may need to submit your own application to your state board or approving body should you wish that it be approved for continuing education credit in your state.
- To attend a remote Herman & Wallace course, registrants will need Zoom video conferencing software. This is a requirement. One can create an account and download the software to their computer at https://zoom.us/
- We use the Pacific Time Zone for all of our remote course start and end times (this is not the case for in-person and satellite lab locations). Please make a note of this and set your calendar accordingly.
- A Zoom account is free to create. Before the meeting, we recommend having a practice Zoom session with a friend or colleague so you can test your microphone, video, and internet connection. You can participate in any remote course from the comfort of your home, but will need a stable internet connection in order to participate. We recommend downloading the software and practicing a call with a friend or colleague prior to your course with us. Zoom also offers video tutorials on their website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/206618765-Zoom-Video-Tutorials.
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Knowing how to safely examine and treat the patient who is pregnant is the goal of this 2-day beginner-level course. For the orthopedic-based practitioner, this course will solidify safe practice with pregnant clientele. For the non-orthopedic practitioner, this course will provide a foundation for working with the client experiencing common pregnancy-related conditions. The course will open with brief case scenarios that highlight the difference between examination/evaluation in the pregnant vs. non-pregnant population. Review will be provided of pregnancy-related terminology: fertilization, trimesters, medical testing/interventions, imaging, and medications. The participant who completes this course will be able to differentiate between false labor and progressive labor and describe fetal positions and stages of labor and birth. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic changes during pregnancy will be provided, included pregnancy effects on the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
Examination considerations and modifications specific to pregnancy will be provided, as well as specific questions to ask during history taking and strategies for identifying red flags in pregnancy. Safe positions during the examination/treatment, common posture/gait/balance changes during pregnancy, and common biomechanics and sleep positioningtraining are described. The participant will learn what modalities and manual therapy techniques are safe or precautioned during pregnancy. Examination, evaluation, and treatment of common pregnancy complaints will be reviewed during lecture and lab for the lumbar, pelvic, and hip region. An introduction in lecture and lab to diastasis rectus abdominis, pelvic floor dysfunction, breathing, and deep core assessment/treatment will be provided (covered in more detail during the postpartum course). All pelvic floor techniques will be instructed externally (no internal examination/treatment at this course).
To prepare the pregnant client for labor and birth, this course will offer instruction on perineal stretching, hip and trunk flexibility activities, TENS for labor,partner massage, and stress reduction techniques during labor. Doula and labor support and childbirth class options will be described. Practice during lab of positional consideration with sEMG biofeedback will help the participant guide patients in labor and birthing positions, including consideration for positional strategies for women with pre-existing musculoskeletal problems.
An introduction to high risk pregnancy and activity restriction levels (such as “bed rest”) is provided. On the other hand, instructing patients in fitness and exercise during pregnancy is also discussed in relation to American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) guidelines, with ideas for specific types of exercise modification during pregnancy. The course concludes with discussion of marketing and billing needs for providing care for the pregnant population.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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: None
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Boissonnault, J. S., & Blaschak, M. J. (1988). Incidence of diastasis recti abdominis during the childbearing year. Physical Therapy, 68(7), 1082-1086. Clapp, J. F. I. (2002). Exercising through your pregnancy. Omaha, Nebraska: Addicus Books, Inc. Krum, L., & Smith, S. (2005) Educating physical therapists in women's health: recommendations for professional (entry-level) and post-professional curricula. Journal of Physical Therapy Education. 19(2), 31-41. Spitznagle, T., Leong, F., & Van Dillen, L. (2007). Prevalence of diastasis recti abdominis in a urogynecological patient population. International Urogynecology Journal & Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, 18(3), 321-328.
Day One: 7:30 Registration 8:00 Introduction, goals, and objectives 8:15 Overview of the Pregnant Client 9:15 Hormonal and System Changes During Pregnancy 10:30 Break 10:45 General Examination Considerations and Modifications for the Pregnant Client 11:30 General Treatment Considerations and Modifications for the Pregnant Client 12:15 Lunch 1:15 Examination and Evaluation for Lumbar and Pelvic Girdle Pain During Pregnancy 2:15 LAB: Examination and Special Testing for Lumbar and Pelvic Girdle Pain During Pregnancy 3:15 Break 3:30 Introduction to Core Concepts, Diastasis Rectus Abdominis, and Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction 4:30 LAB: Introduction to the Core, Diastasis Rectus Abdominis, Breathing, and Deep Core Assessment and Treatment 5:30 Day 1 Post Test and Wrap Up 6:00 Adjourn
Day Two: 8:00 Treatment Strategies and Techniques for Spine and Pelvic Girdle During Pregnancy 9:00 LAB:Treatment Techniques for Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle 10:00 Break 10:15 Preparing for Labor and Birth 11:15 LAB: Birthing Position Strategies for Women with Musculoskeletal Problems 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Introduction to High Risk Pregnancy 2:00 Fitness and Exercise During Pregnancy 3:00 Marketing and Billing 3:30 Day 2 Post Test and Wrap Up 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Understand common definitions and medical testing used in obstetrics. 2. Avoid all contraindications for evaluation and treatment of the pregnant patient. 3. List 3 major hormones and how each affects the musculoskeletal system during pregnancy. 4. Describe the pregnancy-related physiologic changes in the cardiorespiratory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary, reproductive, immune and musculoskeletal systems during pregnancy. 5. List 2 common conditions that occur in pregnancy for the spine and trunk, abdomen, pelvic floor, pelvic girdle, upper and lower extremities. 6. Instruct in safe exercises and activities for the low-risk and high-risk patient. 7. Educate the patient in methods to prepare physically for birth. 8. Complete medical screening for referral for the pregnant patient. 9. Apply and utilize surface EMG with external sensors for pelvic floor muscles. 10. Market a program of physical therapy care for the pregnant patient.
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
Pregnant and Postpartum Rehabilitation Special Topics
Course Description
This two-day remote continuing education course is intended for the practitioner who is already familiar with basic rehabilitation concepts in the pregnant and postpartum population, as provided through the Pregnancy Rehabilitation (in person or remote) and the Postpartum Rehabilitation (in person or remote) courses, and includes lab activities designed to enhance the practitioners’ skills for working with special perinatal populations, in addition to diving deeper into medical and psychosocial topics related to pregnancy and postpartum. Prior to the remote live portion of the course, participants will be able to view pre-recorded lectures at their own pace on the online platform Teachable. In these videos, the following pregnancy- and postpartum-related topics will be covered: Dysfunctional labor and birth complications, as well as their impact on birthing outcomes and postpartum recovery. Consideration of birth locations (hospital, birthing center, and home) and birthing attendants will be reviewed, and how the rehabilitation professional may play a role in the labor and birth process. An overview of the effects of prior abuse experienced by the patient and how it affects pregnancy, birth, and parenting will be covered. Gynecologic surgeries and medical treatment related to reproductive health will be described, such as tubal ligation, post-birth hysterectomy, and surgical procedures to address fertility issues. High-risk pregnancy will be defined, with many common high-risk pregnancy diagnoses, their red flags, and implications for rehabilitation professionals being discussed. Basic resources and information about pregnancy and parenting with disabilities will also be covered.
Pregnant and Postpartum Rehabilitation Special Topics
Course Description
This two-day remote continuing education course is intended for the practitioner who is already familiar with basic rehabilitation concepts in the pregnant and postpartum population, as provided through the Pregnancy Rehabilitation (in person or remote) and the Postpartum Rehabilitation (in person or remote) courses, and includes lab activities designed to enhance the practitioners’ skills for working with special perinatal populations, in addition to diving deeper into medical and psychosocial topics related to pregnancy and postpartum.
Prior to the remote live portion of the course, participants will be able to view pre-recorded lectures at their own pace on the online platform Teachable. In these videos, the following pregnancy- and postpartum-related topics will be covered: Dysfunctional labor and birth complications, as well as their impact on birthing outcomes and postpartum recovery. Consideration of birth locations (hospital, birthing center, and home) and birthing attendants will be reviewed, and how the rehabilitation professional may play a role in the labor and birth process. An overview of the effects of prior abuse experienced by the patient and how it affects pregnancy, birth, and parenting will be covered. Gynecologic surgeries and medical treatment related to reproductive health will be described, such as tubal ligation, post-birth hysterectomy, and surgical procedures to address fertility issues. High-risk pregnancy will be defined, with many common high-risk pregnancy diagnoses, their red flags, and implications for rehabilitation professionals being discussed. Basic resources and information about pregnancy and parenting with disabilities will also be covered.
This two-day remote continuing education course is intended for the practitioner who is already familiar with basic rehabilitation concepts in the pregnant and postpartum population, as provided through the Pregnancy Rehabilitation (in person or remote) and the Postpartum Rehabilitation (in person or remote) courses, and includes lab activities designed to enhance the practitioners’ skills for working with special perinatal populations, in addition to diving deeper into medical and psychosocial topics related to pregnancy and postpartum.
Prior to the remote live portion of the course, participants will be able to view pre-recorded lectures at their own pace on the online platform Teachable. In these videos, the following pregnancy- and postpartum-related topics will be covered: Dysfunctional labor and birth complications, as well as their impact on birthing outcomes and postpartum recovery. Consideration of birth locations (hospital, birthing center, and home) and birthing attendants will be reviewed, and how the rehabilitation professional may play a role in the labor and birth process. An overview of the effects of prior abuse experienced by the patient and how it effects pregnancy, birth, and parenting will be covered. Gynecologic surgeries and medical treatment related to reproductive health will be described, such as tubal ligation, post-birth hysterectomy, and surgical procedures to address fertility issues. High-risk pregnancy will be defined, with many common high-risk pregnancy diagnoses, their red flags, and implications for rehabilitation professionals being discussed. Basic resources and information about pregnancy and parenting with disabilities will also be covered.
During the live interactive portions of this course, we will open with management of the patient in a high-risk pregnancy, including activity restriction levels, considerations for examination and treatment, and effects of bed rest on the pregnant and postpartum patient. Lab activities will review safe performance of examination, treatment, and exercise for the patient on bed rest or activity restriction in pregnancy. Case scenarios will provide practice in performing differential diagnosis for high-risk pregnancy/medical conditions versus musculoskeletal problems. Discussion of cultural implications on labor, birth, and postpartum will provide the rehabilitation practitioner with awareness and further understanding of potential client needs. Fertility and reproductive challenges will be reviewed, with consideration for effects of various conditions, such as endometriosis or polycystic ovarian syndrome, on fertility and childbirth.
Lab activities will introduce abdominal myofascial techniques related to these conditions. Review of postpartum management in the acute care will be covered, as well as lab activities for helpful treatment techniques early postpartum. The course will conclude with discussion of exercise, fitness, and wellness during pregnancy, including discussion of the pregnant athlete. Resources for developing prenatal exercise plans and courses will be provided, as well as case discussion for working with patients who wish to exercise through pregnancy.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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:
Completion of the following courses, or courses with similar content: Pregnancy Rehabilitation (in person or remote) and Postpartum Rehabilitation (in person or remote). All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must also be watched before the Live Component of the course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
References Daoud, N., Urquia, M. L., O'Campo, P., Heaman, M., Janssen, P. A., Smylie, J., & Thiessen, K. (2012). Prevalence of Abuse and Violence Before, During, and After Pregnancy in a National Sample of Canadian Women. American Journal of Public Health (0), 1-9.
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Define dysfunctional labor and describe related birthing complications.
2. Describe fertility and various conditions that can affect a person’s fertility and reproduction.
3. Describe common gynecological surgeries and medical treatment related to reproduction and pregnancy.
4. Define high-risk pregnancy and related diagnoses.
5. Differentiate amongst different birth locations and attendants, and their effects on birthing outcomes.
6. Safely provide examination, evaluation, and intervention for the patient on a high-risk pregnancy activity restriction.
7. Provide differential diagnosis between high-risk pregnancy and musculoskeletal diagnoses.
8. Identify resources for pregnancy and parenting with disabilities.
9. Describe various cultural implications and beliefs related to labor, birth, and postpartum.
10. Safely provide examination, evaluation, and intervention for acutely postpartum patients.
11. Describe the effects of a patient’s prior abuse experience on pregnancy, birth, and parenting.
12. Safely prescribe or modify an exercise routine for a pregnant patient.
13. Identify contraindications and precautions for beginning or continuing an exercise routine during pregnancy.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 3 hours
1) Dysfunctional Labor and Birthing Complications (39 min) 2) Birth Locations and Attendants (15 min) 3) Effects of Abuse on Pregnancy, Birth, and Parenting (28 min) 4) Gynecologic Surgeries and Medical Treatment (28 min) 5) High Risk Pregnancy and Complications (53 min) 6)Pregnancy, Labor, & Birth with Disabilities (19 min)
============================= Day One
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Introductions and Q&A/Review of Pre-Recorded Lectures
9:15 - Managing the Patient through High Risk Pregnancy 10:30 - LAB Examination and Treatment During High Risk Pregnancy 11:15 - BREAK 11:45 - Breakout Cases – High Risk Pregnancy Differential Diagnosis 12:45 - Cultural Implications and Beliefs in Labor, Birth, and Postpartum 1:30 - Breakout Groups – Cultural and Beliefs Impact Activity 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Q&A, Review of previous day
9:15 - Fertility and Reproductive Topics 10:15 - LAB Introduction to Abdominal Myofascial Techniques 10:45 - Acute Postpartum Therapy Strategies 11:30 - BREAK 12:00 - LAB Acute Postpartum Treatment Techniques 12:30 - Exercise & Fitness During Pregnancy 1:30 - BREAK OUT CASES – Exercise During Pregnancy 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
Attending a remote course is easy and safe, and you can do it entirely from the security and comfort of your own home or clinic without having to find a lab partner.
Important thing to note:
- Our policy for applying for continuing education credit for remote courses differs from that of our in-person and satellite lab courses. Read the specific language of the policy here. Depending on the state in which you practice, you may need to submit your own application to your state board or approving body should you wish that it be approved for continuing education credit in your state.
- To attend a remote Herman & Wallace course, registrants will need Zoom video conferencing software. This is a requirement. One can create an account and download the software to their computer at https://zoom.us/
- We use the Pacific Time Zone for all of our remote course start and end times (this is not the case for in-person and satellite lab locations). Please make a note of this and set your calendar accordingly.
- A Zoom account is free to create. Before the meeting, we recommend having a practice Zoom session with a friend or colleague so you can test your microphone, video, and internet connection. You can participate in any remote course from the comfort of your home, but will need a stable internet connection in order to participate. We recommend downloading the software and practicing a call with a friend or colleague prior to your course with us. Zoom also offers video tutorials on their website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/206618765-Zoom-Video-Tutorials.
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
This two-day remote continuing education course is intended for the practitioner who is already familiar with basic rehabilitation concepts in the pregnant and postpartum population, as provided through the Pregnancy Rehabilitation (in person or remote) and the Postpartum Rehabilitation (in person or remote) courses, and includes lab activities designed to enhance the practitioners’ skills for working with special perinatal populations, in addition to diving deeper into medical and psychosocial topics related to pregnancy and postpartum.
Prior to the remote live portion of the course, participants will be able to view pre-recorded lectures at their own pace on the online platform Teachable. In these videos, the following pregnancy- and postpartum-related topics will be covered: Dysfunctional labor and birth complications, as well as their impact on birthing outcomes and postpartum recovery. Consideration of birth locations (hospital, birthing center, and home) and birthing attendants will be reviewed, and how the rehabilitation professional may play a role in the labor and birth process. An overview of the effects of prior abuse experienced by the patient and how it effects pregnancy, birth, and parenting will be covered. Gynecologic surgeries and medical treatment related to reproductive health will be described, such as tubal ligation, post-birth hysterectomy, and surgical procedures to address fertility issues. High-risk pregnancy will be defined, with many common high-risk pregnancy diagnoses, their red flags, and implications for rehabilitation professionals being discussed. Basic resources and information about pregnancy and parenting with disabilities will also be covered.
During the live interactive portions of this course, we will open with management of the patient in a high-risk pregnancy, including activity restriction levels, considerations for examination and treatment, and effects of bed rest on the pregnant and postpartum patient. Lab activities will review safe performance of examination, treatment, and exercise for the patient on bed rest or activity restriction in pregnancy. Case scenarios will provide practice in performing differential diagnosis for high-risk pregnancy/medical conditions versus musculoskeletal problems. Discussion of cultural implications on labor, birth, and postpartum will provide the rehabilitation practitioner with awareness and further understanding of potential client needs. Fertility and reproductive challenges will be reviewed, with consideration for effects of various conditions, such as endometriosis or polycystic ovarian syndrome, on fertility and childbirth.
Lab activities will introduce abdominal myofascial techniques related to these conditions. Review of postpartum management in the acute care will be covered, as well as lab activities for helpful treatment techniques early postpartum. The course will conclude with discussion of exercise, fitness, and wellness during pregnancy, including discussion of the pregnant athlete. Resources for developing prenatal exercise plans and courses will be provided, as well as case discussion for working with patients who wish to exercise through pregnancy.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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:
Completion of the following courses, or courses with similar content: Pregnancy Rehabilitation (in person or remote) and Postpartum Rehabilitation (in person or remote). All pre-recorded lectures in Teachable for this course must also be watched before the Live Component of the course. See the Schedule tab for the current list of pre-recorded videos
References Daoud, N., Urquia, M. L., O'Campo, P., Heaman, M., Janssen, P. A., Smylie, J., & Thiessen, K. (2012). Prevalence of Abuse and Violence Before, During, and After Pregnancy in a National Sample of Canadian Women. American Journal of Public Health (0), 1-9.
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to:
1. Define dysfunctional labor and describe related birthing complications.
2. Describe fertility and various conditions that can affect a person’s fertility and reproduction.
3. Describe common gynecological surgeries and medical treatment related to reproduction and pregnancy.
4. Define high-risk pregnancy and related diagnoses.
5. Differentiate amongst different birth locations and attendants, and their effects on birthing outcomes.
6. Safely provide examination, evaluation, and intervention for the patient on a high-risk pregnancy activity restriction.
7. Provide differential diagnosis between high-risk pregnancy and musculoskeletal diagnoses.
8. Identify resources for pregnancy and parenting with disabilities.
9. Describe various cultural implications and beliefs related to labor, birth, and postpartum.
10. Safely provide examination, evaluation, and intervention for acutely postpartum patients.
11. Describe the effects of a patient’s prior abuse experience on pregnancy, birth, and parenting.
12. Safely prescribe or modify an exercise routine for a pregnant patient.
13. Identify contraindications and precautions for beginning or continuing an exercise routine during pregnancy.
============================= Before Day One
=============================
These video lectures in Teachable must be viewed in-full prior to the course Total video lecture time: 3 hours
1) Dysfunctional Labor and Birthing Complications (39 min) 2) Birth Locations and Attendants (15 min) 3) Effects of Abuse on Pregnancy, Birth, and Parenting (28 min) 4) Gynecologic Surgeries and Medical Treatment (28 min) 5) High Risk Pregnancy and Complications (53 min) 6)Pregnancy, Labor, & Birth with Disabilities (19 min)
============================= Day One
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Introductions and Q&A/Review of Pre-Recorded Lectures
9:15 - Managing the Patient through High Risk Pregnancy 10:30 - LAB Examination and Treatment During High Risk Pregnancy 11:15 - BREAK 11:45 - Breakout Cases – High Risk Pregnancy Differential Diagnosis 12:45 - Cultural Implications and Beliefs in Labor, Birth, and Postpartum 1:30 - Breakout Groups – Cultural and Beliefs Impact Activity 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
============================= Day Two
=============================
8:30 am PST - Zoom opens 30 mins before course for registration and setup 9:00 am PST - Course begins / Q&A, Review of previous day
9:15 - Fertility and Reproductive Topics 10:15 - LAB Introduction to Abdominal Myofascial Techniques 10:45 - Acute Postpartum Therapy Strategies 11:30 - BREAK 12:00 - LAB Acute Postpartum Treatment Techniques 12:30 - Exercise & Fitness During Pregnancy 1:30 - BREAK OUT CASES – Exercise During Pregnancy 2:00 - Recap of Key Concepts and Q&A 2:30 - Adjourn
Attending a remote course is easy and safe, and you can do it entirely from the security and comfort of your own home or clinic without having to find a lab partner.
Important thing to note:
- Our policy for applying for continuing education credit for remote courses differs from that of our in-person and satellite lab courses. Read the specific language of the policy here. Depending on the state in which you practice, you may need to submit your own application to your state board or approving body should you wish that it be approved for continuing education credit in your state.
- To attend a remote Herman & Wallace course, registrants will need Zoom video conferencing software. This is a requirement. One can create an account and download the software to their computer at https://zoom.us/
- We use the Pacific Time Zone for all of our remote course start and end times (this is not the case for in-person and satellite lab locations). Please make a note of this and set your calendar accordingly.
- A Zoom account is free to create. Before the meeting, we recommend having a practice Zoom session with a friend or colleague so you can test your microphone, video, and internet connection. You can participate in any remote course from the comfort of your home, but will need a stable internet connection in order to participate. We recommend downloading the software and practicing a call with a friend or colleague prior to your course with us. Zoom also offers video tutorials on their website at https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/206618765-Zoom-Video-Tutorials.
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
Update 3/12/2020: As a precaution against the spread of COVID-19, this course has been postponed. Once we have a new date confirmed, we will update our website and make the event available for registration. We appreciate your understanding during this difficult time. Please practice good hygiene, and be safe!
Knowing how to safely examine and treat the patient who is pregnant is the goal of this 2-day beginner-level course. For the orthopedic-based practitioner, this course will solidify safe practice with pregnant clientele. For the non-orthopedic practitioner, this course will provide a foundation for working with the client experiencing common pregnancy-related conditions. The course will open with brief case scenarios that highlight the difference between examination/evaluation in the pregnant vs. non-pregnant population. Review will be provided of pregnancy-related terminology: fertilization, trimesters, medical testing/interventions, imaging, and medications. The participant who completes this course will be able to differentiate between false labor and progressive labor and describe fetal positions and stages of labor and birth. Understanding typical hormonal and systemic changes during pregnancy will be provided, included pregnancy effects on the endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune, neurologic/sensory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary/renal, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
Examination considerations and modifications specific to pregnancy will be provided, as well as specific questions to ask during history taking and strategies for identifying red flags in pregnancy. Safe positions during the examination/treatment, common posture/gait/balance changes during pregnancy, and common biomechanics and sleep positioningtraining are described. The participant will learn what modalities and manual therapy techniques are safe or precautioned during pregnancy. Examination, evaluation, and treatment of common pregnancy complaints will be reviewed during lecture and lab for the lumbar, pelvic, and hip region. An introduction in lecture and lab to diastasis rectus abdominis, pelvic floor dysfunction, breathing, and deep core assessment/treatment will be provided (covered in more detail during the postpartum course). All pelvic floor techniques will be instructed externally (no internal examination/treatment at this course).
To prepare the pregnant client for labor and birth, this course will offer instruction on perineal stretching, hip and trunk flexibility activities, TENS for labor,partner massage, and stress reduction techniques during labor. Doula and labor support and childbirth class options will be described. Practice during lab of positional consideration with sEMG biofeedback will help the participant guide patients in labor and birthing positions, including consideration for positional strategies for women with pre-existing musculoskeletal problems.
An introduction to high risk pregnancy and activity restriction levels (such as “bed rest”) is provided. On the other hand, instructing patients in fitness and exercise during pregnancy is also discussed in relation to American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) guidelines, with ideas for specific types of exercise modification during pregnancy. The course concludes with discussion of marketing and billing needs for providing care for the pregnant population.
Audience:
This continuing education seminar is targeted to physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapist assistants, registered nurses, nurse midwives, 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: None
Are you interested in expanding your practice to treat prenatal patients? Herman & Wallace has put together a Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor marketing presentation to help you underscore the importance of prenatal physical therapy.
References
Boissonnault, J. S., & Blaschak, M. J. (1988). Incidence of diastasis recti abdominis during the childbearing year. Physical Therapy, 68(7), 1082-1086. Clapp, J. F. I. (2002). Exercising through your pregnancy. Omaha, Nebraska: Addicus Books, Inc. Krum, L., & Smith, S. (2005) Educating physical therapists in women's health: recommendations for professional (entry-level) and post-professional curricula. Journal of Physical Therapy Education. 19(2), 31-41. Spitznagle, T., Leong, F., & Van Dillen, L. (2007). Prevalence of diastasis recti abdominis in a urogynecological patient population. International Urogynecology Journal & Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, 18(3), 321-328.
Day One: 7:30 Registration 8:00 Introduction, goals, and objectives 8:15 Overview of the Pregnant Client 9:15 Hormonal and System Changes During Pregnancy 10:30 Break 10:45 General Examination Considerations and Modifications for the Pregnant Client 11:30 General Treatment Considerations and Modifications for the Pregnant Client 12:15 Lunch 1:15 Examination and Evaluation for Lumbar and Pelvic Girdle Pain During Pregnancy 2:15 LAB: Examination and Special Testing for Lumbar and Pelvic Girdle Pain During Pregnancy 3:15 Break 3:30 Introduction to Core Concepts, Diastasis Rectus Abdominis, and Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction 4:30 LAB: Introduction to the Core, Diastasis Rectus Abdominis, Breathing, and Deep Core Assessment and Treatment 5:30 Day 1 Post Test and Wrap Up 6:00 Adjourn
Day Two: 8:00 Treatment Strategies and Techniques for Spine and Pelvic Girdle During Pregnancy 9:00 LAB:Treatment Techniques for Lumbar Spine and Pelvic Girdle 10:00 Break 10:15 Preparing for Labor and Birth 11:15 LAB: Birthing Position Strategies for Women with Musculoskeletal Problems 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Introduction to High Risk Pregnancy 2:00 Fitness and Exercise During Pregnancy 3:00 Marketing and Billing 3:30 Day 2 Post Test and Wrap Up 4:00 Adjourn
Upon completion of this continuing education seminar, participants will be able to: 1. Understand common definitions and medical testing used in obstetrics. 2. Avoid all contraindications for evaluation and treatment of the pregnant patient. 3. List 3 major hormones and how each affects the musculoskeletal system during pregnancy. 4. Describe the pregnancy-related physiologic changes in the cardiorespiratory, integumentary, gastrointestinal, urinary, reproductive, immune and musculoskeletal systems during pregnancy. 5. List 2 common conditions that occur in pregnancy for the spine and trunk, abdomen, pelvic floor, pelvic girdle, upper and lower extremities. 6. Instruct in safe exercises and activities for the low-risk and high-risk patient. 7. Educate the patient in methods to prepare physically for birth. 8. Complete medical screening for referral for the pregnant patient. 9. Apply and utilize surface EMG with external sensors for pelvic floor muscles. 10. Market a program of physical therapy care for the pregnant patient.
Directions from Recommended Lodging to Course Location: (click here if no map appears below)
Darla Cathcart, PT, DPT, PhD, WCS, CLT
Darla graduated from Louisiana State University (Shreveport, LA) with her physical therapy degree, performed residency training in Women’s Health PT at Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. Her dissertation research focused on using non-invasive brain stimulation to augment behavioral interventions for women with lifelong vaginismus, and her ongoing line of research focuses on painful intercourse and post-Cesarean rehabilitation.
Darla’s certifications and training include Women’s Health Certified Specialist (WCS, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties). Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic). Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy & Postpartum Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB). Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
Darla began her women’s health physical therapy career in her first job while working with pregnant women with musculoskeletal problems in a private outpatient therapy clinic in Shreveport, LA (with a focus on spine rehab). While there, she developed and hosted an exercise class for pregnant women. She would go on to develop a mom and baby postpartum exercise class while in her Duke residency in Durham, NC. She went on to develop the pelvic, pregnancy, and post-breast cancer/lymphedema PT program at Christus-Schumpert Health System in Shreveport, LA. During this time, she participated in educating women in the labor and birth preparatory classes hosted by the hospital; she also taught the women’s health course for physical therapy students at LSU-Shreveport. Darla went on to serve as a full-time faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR, where she taught women’s health topics, documentation, therapeutic exercise, professional development, and human physiology. She recently owned a private PT practice that is dedicated to pelvic (bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain) and pregnancy/postpartum conditions in Conway, AR. Darla now is a full-time faculty member in the entry-level Physical Therapy program at Graceland University.
Darla currently serves as the President for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has several peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed scientific publications. Amongst some of these, she co-authored “Clinical Summary: Urinary Incontinence” for PTNow.org in April 2015. She authored the chapter titled “The Female Hip and Pelvis” in Orthopedic Management of the Hip and Pelvis (S Cheatham, M Kolber, Elsevier, 2015). She chaired the committee for and participated heavily in the development of the Certificate of Achievement in Pregnancy/Postpartum (CAPP-OB) course series for the Section on Women’s Health of the American Physical Therapy Association. Darla has spoken and instructed many courses in local, national, and international settings on a variety of pelvic, pregnancy/postpartum, and other women’s health physical therapy topics. Darla has served as the Director of Education (2011-2014) and as Vice President (2015-2016) for the Section on Women’s Health, American Physical Therapy Association. She also served a technical expert panel member on Treatments for Fecal Incontinence, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2014-2015. She also volunteered as a Women’s Health Certified Specialist Exam Standardization Task Force member in May 2013. Darla received several awards from the Section on Women’s Health: CAPP-OB Instructor of the Year (2017); Course Site Hostess of the Year (2018); and Volunteer of the Year (2015). She also received Clinical Instructor of the Year while serving as a clinical instructor a pelvic health physical therapy student from Elon University in 2011.
On a personal note, Darla has teenaged twin boys. She is a lifelong runner and exerciser who loves dark chocolate, craft beer, and her four dogs.
Attention: We are unable to offer "retro-active" discounts (i.e. applying a discount to a transaction after the transaction takes place), so if you are interested in exploring discount options and you are unsure if your transactions is eligible for a discount, please contact us to inquire.
Multi-Course Discount
This 10% discount is available for a single registrant who wishes to enroll in 3 or more courses, and pay in one transaction. Registrants wishing to enroll in 5 or more courses should contact us for a customized quote. We can also apply this discount if 2 therapists from a single clinic/hospital enroll in 3 or more courses (ie Registrant A enrolls in Course X and Course Y, Registrant B enrolls in Course X, and Registrants A and B both work at Clinic Z). This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts. Registration and payment must be received at the same time in one credit card payment, one check or one envelop with multiple checks. This type of registration cannot be completed online, if you are wishing to receive the Multi-Course discount please call or email us directly for assistance.
Course discounts for the Pelvic Floor Series are capped at 10% no matter the group size or number of registrations
Group Discount
This discount is available for a group of three or more registrants, who all work at the same clinic/hospital, enroll in a single course, and pay in a single transaction or mail in multiple checks in a single envelope. This discount cannot be used in combination with any other discounts.
Groups of 3-5 receive a 10% discount off the combined price of their group's registrations.
Course discounts for the PF series are being capped at 10% no matter on group size or number of registrations - but will be staying the same for specialty courses.
Student Discount
This 10% discount is available to current students who have yet to earn a license to practice at the time of course registration. Students are welcome to attend satellite and remote courses with H&W once they have reached their third year and/or completed a hands-on clinical in their second year. You may register while in your 2nd year for a course that is taking place by the time you have become a third-year student. However, students are not allowed to register or attend a self-hosted course.
To get this discount when checking out online, use the code STUDENT2023 for courses scheduled for 2023. (Note, this code is only valid for non-licensed students. The H&W admin team will verify that registrants signed up with this code are, indeed, current students prior to their attendance of the course).
Referral Credit/Discount
Any therapist who has already taken a Herman & Wallace course will earn a $50.00 "referral credit" if:
1. A therapist who has never taken a Herman & Wallace course successfully registers for his or her first course(s); AND 2. In the registration process, the first-time registrant gives the name and clinic/hospital of the therapist who referred them to Herman & Wallace.
A therapist who has earned a $50.00 "referral credit" may use this credit toward any course that is eligible for a "referral discount".
Guest Blogger Credit/Discount
Any therapist who completes a qualifying guest blog post on the Herman & Wallace blog will earn a $50.00 "guest blogger credit". This credit may be applied toward any course.
Image owned and provided by Herman & Wallace, INC.
Course Title
Vaginismus and Vulvovaginal Dyspareunia Examination and Treatment
Course Description
In this course, pelvic health rehabilitation providers will learn about the different types of vaginismus and vulvovaginal dyspareunia. The remote live portion of the course will also focus on rehabilitation treatments, including walking the participant through functional use of vaginal trainers (commonly known as dilators), and methods for progressing their use.
Holly Tanner was born and raised in Duluth, Minnesota, and has lived in Washington state for most of her adult life. At Herman & Wallace, Holly is a faculty member and the Director of Education. She owns a private practice that focuses on pelvic rehabilitation and on chronic myofascial pain. She graduated from the College of St. Scholastica in 1995 with a Masters of Arts degree in Physical Therapy and in 2013 she completed a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Prior experience includes working for Apple Physical Therapy where she developed and directed the Women's and Men's Health programs for the company’s many clinics. She is Board-certified in Orthopedics, Women's Health, and in Pelvic Rehabilitation. She teaches continuing education courses nationally, teaches in the transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy program for the College of St. Scholastics, and serves as a consultant for practice and program development. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and the American Massage Therapy Association.
