Course Description

This two day seminar is designed to provide physical therapists and physical therapist assistants with the information needed to develop a comprehensive evaluation and treatment program for the shoulder region.  This course begins with a review of neuromuscular movement pattern concepts, kinetic chain theories, and evidence to support early post-op application of these exercises.  An in-depth analysis of the functional and dysfunctional biomechanics of the scapula is thoroughly covered.

By engaging the participants in laboratory exercises, the fundamentals of scapular and shoulder dysfunction are exposed.  The participants are led through a systematic approach which includes a series of extensive manual activities to develop comprehensive management approaches to restoring optimal biomechanical shoulder function post-operatively based on evidence.

The Shoulder Protocol provides instructions that assist the clinician to confidently apply the new skills to their clinical setting.  Participants will understand the importance of identifying specific dysfunctions in a timely manner which will facilitate effective treatment outcomes and normal shoulder function.

Course Objectives:

Upon completion of this course the  participants will:

  • Understand shoulder biomechanics and the role of the scapula
  • Assess the shoulder complex and identify biomechanical dysfunction including medical screening appropriate to the shoulder
  • Understand when and how to apply movement pattern theories to shoulder rehabilitation programs to promote normal shoulder function
  • Apply a combination of manual techniques, specific release techniques, indirect mobilizations, PNF, and CKC activities safely and effectively post-op shoulder RTC repair
  • Demonstrate an active awareness of the integration of neurological and orthopedic principles as they apply to post-op shoulder rehab and a return to normal shoulder function
  • Understand the evidence-based movement pattern treatment approach to post-op RTC repair and other shoulder dysfunctions
  • Set up thorough and timely patient home exercise programs based on a functional movement pattern approach.

Course Outline

DAY ONE

7:30    Registration

8:00    Introduction Movement Pattern Approach
Neuromuscular concepts
Normalization of physiology and biomechanics
Kinetic Chain concept
Physiology of Movement Patterns

9:15  Role of the Scapula
Scapular Dyskinesis

10:30 BREAK

10:45 Kinetic Chain Principles

11:00  Examine the Evidence

12:20  Discussion/Questions

12:30  LUNCH (on your own)

1:30  Brief review of morning session

1:45  Biomechanical Shoulder/Scapular/Postural Examination
Medical Screening/Red Flags
Lecture/Lab

3:45  BREAK

4:00  Case Study

5:00 –5:15 Discussion/Questions

DAY TWO

8:00 Movement Pattern Approach / Video/Questions

8:45 Rehabilitation Protocol Lecture/Video/Lab
Manual techniques
Evidence-based Exercise

10:45 BREAK

11:00  Rehabilitation Protocol Lecture/Lab

12:30 LUNCH

1:30  Rehabilitation  Protocol Lecture/Lab

2:30 BREAK

2:45  Application to Various Shoulder Dysfunctions

3:30-3:45  Review and Questions

About The Instructor

Mary Stout, PT, DPT,  graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Therapy from Quinnipiac University in Hamden Connecticut in 1977.  She studied Anatomy and Work Physiology at Yale University and earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Shenandoah University in 2009.

Mary completed a Case Study on a Rotator Cuff protocol which she developed as a result of her extensive orthopedic  and neurologic background.  The Case Study received a ”Professional Writing Award” from  Shenandoah University School of Physical Therapy in recognition of outstanding initiative and achievement in the development of her individual ability to contribute to the Physical Therapy profession. Mary was recipient of the 2009 Physical Therapy Provider Network “National Ace Award” for her research and development of a post-operative shoulder rehabilitation protocol which has been granted a 2009 copyright.

While being named Clinical Associate to Boston University Sargeant College Physical Therapy Program, Mary Stout has made outstanding contributions towards the education of Physical Therapy students.  She has a never-ending desire for educating students in addition to her staff. Her efforts have resulted in the co-development of a standardized student clinical evaluation form in 1982 that was utilized by 12 east coast Physical Therapy schools. Mary has served as guest lecturer for numerous DPT and PTA programs in Pennsylvania and is an APTA credentialed clinical instructor. She currently teaches her protocol and approach to shoulder rehab to numerous PT and PTA programs and most recently presented an abbreviated presentation at the PPTA Northeast District Mini CSM in September 2014. Mary’s Shoulder Rehab combines an eclectic  movement pattern evidence-based approach of  indirect mobilizations, release techniques and CKC exercises using the scapula as a focal point.

As a member of a research team in 1982, Mary helped develop Physical Therapy scheduling software and in 1999, a therapeutic ultrasound coupling agent known as “T-Prep”, which is used by numerous physical therapy clinics and college athletic departments. Other cutting edge accomplishments include successful development of a T-Roll lumbar spinal cushion which carries its’ own U.S. patent and as part of a team, participated in research of various therapeutic procedures utilized by physical therapists.

Mary set up a 3 office private physical therapy practice in 1989  which specializes as a Shoulder Center and maintains a consistent referral base with local physicians due to the successful outcomes she obtains with her shoulder clients. These accomplishments have prepared Mary to present her information in a two day continuing education seminar to physical therapists and physical therapist assistants.