This course will cover current best evidence in the physical therapy management of low back pain. Laboratory sessions will focus on the safe and effective delivery of thrust and non-thrust manipulation to the lumbar spine, thoracolumbar spine, and lower ribs.
Additional labs will cover an introduction to the McKenzie approach, management of lumbar radiculopathy, thoracolumbar junction dysfunctions, and progressive exercise concepts with particular emphasis on performance and incorporation of the deadlift. Mobility and motor control exercises will be included to complement the manual therapy techniques.
Lecture material will summarize the developing body of literature regarding the subgrouping of lumbar spine patients, differential diagnosis of lumbar conditions, neurophysiology of manipulation, sleep and pain, and lumbar spine examination based on clinical practice guidelines.