An Eclectic Manual Therapy Approach to the Thorax

Presented by Rehab Connections

Description

A mechanical problem needs a mechanical solution.

This 6-hour course will identify mechanical dysfunction specific to the thorax. Current evidenced based research regarding indications and contra-indications for manual therapy of the thorax shall be presented, however, the majority of the course will be spent in lab.

Instruction level: Basic

7.0 CE Contact Hours

Topics

• Differentiation of hypomobility and hypermobility. Which is more challenging to treat?
• At what level of the spine does the spinal cord move the least? Thus, indicating the treatment of mobilization/manipulation.
• What are the two safest regions in the body to manipulate?
• Anatomical review as it relates to the assessment and treatment of the thorax.
• Thoracic evaluation
• • Differential diagnosis of contractile vs. inert tissue
  • Review of neurological examination procedures
  • Identification of hypermobilities and hypomobilities
• Intervention
• • Treatment rationale
  • Manual interventions for regaining mobility
  • Overview of stabilization concepts for the thoracic spine

Objectives

At the completion of this course, you will be able to:

1. Perform a basic thoracic evaluation
2. Use passive intervertebral motion testing to identify hypermobility and hypomobility
3. Know the indications and contraindications to manual intervention and manipulation
4. Correctly correlate intervention with type of dysfunction
5. Perform basic mobilization/manipulation techniques

Presenters

Paul Thomas, PT, MTC, OCS

Paul is a graduate of the University of Kentucky with a degree in Physical Therapy and holds a certification in Manual Therapy through the University of St. Augustine/Stanley Paris program. Paul has integrated several manual-based schools of thought (Canadian–Functional Mobilization– Osteopathic). He is recognized as a clinical specialist in orthopaedic physical therapy from the ABPTS. He specializes in the management of spinal conditions and is an avid Tri-Athlete.

Ivan Huergo, MPT

Ivan is a graduate of Northwestern University Medical School with a Master’s of Physical Therapy and holds a certification in Manual Therapy through MTI. Also, certified in Muscle Activation Techniques (MAT—a new approach identifying and treating muscular imbalances), Ivan has integrated several manual approaches into a tissue specific framework differentiating joint– muscle–nerve pathology. Currently, Ivan is the only physical therapist in IL who holds a certification in both Manual Therapy and MAT. Ivan is the founder of APEX, a private practice in physical therapy and personal training bridging the gap between rehab and fitness. As an undergrad, he was a varsity wrestler at University of Oklahoma.

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Location

Location

Rehab Connections
Physical Therapy
and
Education and Training Center
14901 S. Founders Crossing, Homer Glen, IL 60491
Phone: (708) 301-9933

Registration: 8:00 am - 8:30 am
Course: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

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Click on date to register.

Lunch is on your own

Tuition: $199

Seating is limited. Please register early!

Rehab Connections reserves the right to modify the content and the scheduled speakers when circumstances are beyond our control.

Rehab Connections is an approved continuing education sponsor through the State of Illinois; PT License No: 216-000101

Cancellations:
Registration fee, less a $50 administration fee per session, is refunded if notice of cancellation is received more than 10 days in advance of the CE event. Cancellations made less than 10 days in advance of the CE event date forfeit the entire tuition fee. Tuition can be transferred to another individual or another CE event, one time only. No transfer, refund or credit will be given for cancellation 3 days or less before the CE event, or when handouts or other CE event materials are available electronically, including but not limited to emailed or downloadable pdf documents.
All unapplied transfers and credits will expire September 26, 2026.

Rehab Connections reserves the right to cancel the CE event up to one week prior to the CE event. Rehab Connections will not be responsible for any charges incurred by the registrant due to the cancellation of the CE event, other than the CE event tuition.

© 2025 Rehab Connections

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