Manual Therapy Interventions for the Physical Therapist Assistant – Cervicothoracic & Upper Quarter

Manual therapy is an integral part of a physical therapist assistant’s practice. This course will provide a fundamental foundation on manual therapy in addition to the current guidelines and recommendations for the PTA. Course content will explore different mobilization with movement, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, neurodynamic, and soft tissue techniques as they relate to the cervicothoracic region and the upper quarter. This lab course will be designed to maximize hands-on practice with short lectures and group discussion.

During the lab, participants will have expert supervision and guidance from Fellows of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists and other therapists with advanced training in manual therapy.

Course Objectives:

• Understand the mechanisms of manual therapy for the treatment of musculoskeletal dysfunction

• Understand current allowances of manual interventions for the PTA under CO statute

• Develop hands on skills for:

  • Mobilization with movement

  • Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation techniques

  • Neurodynamic mobilization

  • Soft tissue mobilization

• Advance your practice as the primary assistant in the delivery of physical therapy service