Description

There is one area which is subject to debate within manual therapies and in osteopathy: the cervical spine.

Cervical manipulation is widely used and is subject to numerous clinical studies. However, controversy remains regarding its clinical relevance and its dangerousness.

The training refocuses the debate and provides a well-argued debate on a scientific basis, specifically with regard to clinical practice.

The training includes a theoretical and practical refresher course specifically adapted to the needs of clinicians.

Content and specificities

At the end of the training, the participant will:

• Have updated his/her knowledge on the biomechanics of the cervical spine ;

• Acquired and adapted the know-how in relation with this update ;

• Acquired the procedures of the clinical examination and its integration in the semiological table;

• Will have learned to deal with emergency situations.

Objectives and skills developed

Following a refresher on the knowledge in biomechanics and cinematics of the cervical spine C2-C7 et C0-C2, including basic notions such as the concept of the helical axis and the neutral zone, the training will focus on clinical examination and more specifically on the neurological and functional aspects.

The specific mobilisation and manipulation techniques will be integrated within a clinical context based on symptomatology and semiology. Moreover, the biomechanics of the vertebral artery and carotid will be illustrated by experimental results and literature. Particular importance will be put on acute situations and emergency situations.

Method and course material

During the practical training, participants will be accompanied by 3 Osteopaths with extensive experience in the teaching methodology of the mobilisation of the spine.

The theoretical sessions will be extensively illustrated by power point presentations and videos, including also animated three-dimensional reconstructions of the spine using TDM and IRM images during cervical mobilisation.

The practical sessions in alternation with theoretical sessions will not only include clinical examinations but also demonstrations of mobilisations and manipulations of the cervical spine followed by exercised applying the lessons learned with the assistance of the 3 trainers.

Practical information

Trainers: Y. Lepers, P. Klein and W. Salem.
Training dates: 23, 24 and 25 November 2017