Details
Purpose
To teach the current theories of biomechanics and the application of these biomechanics
in the assessment and treatment of the upper quadrant including the peripheral joints, costal region,
the cervical and thoracic spine. An emphasis will be placed on a clinical reasoning approach.
Objectives
At the completion of this course, the student will demonstrate competency in:
Use of biomechanical concepts and terminology including the osteokinematic,arthrokinematic, and neuromeningeal tension principles for the upper quadrant.
Applying this knowledge and clinical reasoning to assessment and in identifying
presentation, clinical implications and management of pathology in the upper quadrant.
Integrating into clinical reasoning processes current knowledge on the origin and
complications of benign mechanical and degenerative disorders of the upper quadrant.
Basic understanding of the influence of distal and proximal tissues (static and dynamic) on
normal and pathological musculoskeletal states.
Applying theoretical principles to practical application of soft tissue and articular assessment
/ treatment procedures in the upper quadrant with attention to the correct grade, direction
and duration of the technique and expected mechanical and physiological effects.
Integrating the principles and practical application of safe and effective high velocity
manipulative procedures to specific upper quadrant peripheral joints.
Performance of standardized subjective and objective assessment; in assessing, analyzing
and modifying dynamic and static postures; and in developing a home exercise program for
clients.
Principles of evidence based practice will be integrated into recording and analyzing data,
and using clinical prediction rules and outcome measures where appropriate to assist in
establishing a rationale for pathology and treatment.
Syllabus/Topics Covered
Anatomy and biomechanics (normal and abnormal) of the Upper Quadrant
Surface anatomy, active and passive uniplanar and combined physiological and accessory mobility and stability tests in the upper quadrant (cervical, craniovertebral, shoulder girdle, elbow, wrist, hand).
Relevant special tests of the upper quadrant joints, craniovertebral region (including introduction to vertebral artery testing, dizziness differentiation and cranial nerves), and neuromeningeal testing.
Clinical reasoning concepts applied to the analysis of total examination data in diagnosis, hypothesis, treatment rationale and secondary referral.
Theory and pathology of common musculoskeletal and non-biomechanical conditions, including indications and contra-indications to manual therapy treatment.
Treatment theory and procedures for acute and non-acute conditions identifying general concepts and rationale.
Treatment techniques including muscle energy techniques, manual traction, active and passive mobilization throughout range of motion, neuromeningeal mobilization, spinal care and manipulations (theory and practice in select peripheral joints).
Current issues and scientific inquiry with discussion on evidence based practice.
Instructor: Dr. Paolo Sanzo
Dr. Paolo Sanzo is an Associate Professor in the School of Kinesiology and at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine at Lakehead University and the Director and Physiotherapist at Active Potential Rehabilitation Services. He is also an instructor and chief examiner for the Orthopedic Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. Dr. Sanzo was the elected past Member Organization Delegate for Canada and was appointed to the executive of the International Federation of Orthopaedic Manipulative Physical Therapists in October 2017.
His research interests are in the area of rehabilitation and sports medicine. More specifically, his research integrates the clinical, biomechanical, and physiological aspects of human movement and gait analysis. It also includes the exploration of the medical and clinical uses and effects of extracorporeal shockwave therapy as it applies to failed tendon and bone healing responses; the clinical application and rationale for the use of therapeutic taping and bracing as an adjunct to rehabilitation and sport performance measures; the biomechanical analysis of concussion and clinical trials exploring various assessment and treatment techniques; manual therapy and length tension testing and the relationships between muscle and myofascial tissues in various musculoskeletal disorders; and the integration of medical technologies for both assessment and treatment purposes. He has published articles in several peer-reviewed journals, authored four books on length tension testing techniques in the upper and lower quadrants, and serves as a reviewer for several journal titles.
Dates & Times
In-person Weekends:
School of Rehabilitation Science, University of Saskatchewan
Friday, October 13th 5:00-9:00pm
Saturday, October 14th 8:00am-5:00pm
Sunday, October 15th 8:00am-3:30pm
Friday, December 1st 5:00-9:00pm
Saturday, December 2nd 8:00am-5:00pm
Sunday, December 3rd 8:00am-3:30pm
Friday, January 12th 5:00-9:00pm
Saturday, January 13th 8:00am-5:00pm
Sunday, January 14th 8:00am-3:30pm
Online Components:
Tuesday, October 3, 2023 6:30-9:00 pm
Tuesday, October 10, 2023 6:30-9:00 pm
Tuesday, October 24, 2023 6:30-9:00 pm
Tuesday, November 7, 2023 6:30-9:00 pm
Tuesday, November 21, 2023 6:30-9:00 pm
Tuesday, November 28, 2023 6:30-9:00 pm
Tuesday, December 5, 2023 6:30-9:00 pm
Tuesday, January 9, 2024 6:30-9:00 pm
*Online schedule subject to change
