Australia Chiropractic Continuing Education

• Discuss the specific pattern of contracted and weak muscles found with Shoulder Crossed Syndrome.
• Discern the effects on the spine, upper extremity and pelvis from the spastic and weak muscle pattern.
• Apply modalities and manual methods to treat weak and contracted muscles.
• Rehabilitate weak and atrophied muscles using stretching and exercise.
• Determine spinal, extraspinal and pelvic effects of the abnormal muscular patterns found with Shoulder Crossed Syndrome and apply treatment protocol.

• Discuss the specific pattern of fibrosis development around and within the glenohumeral joint found with Adhesive Capsulitis.
• Discern the effects of the fibrosis and adhesions on the glenohumeral joint and associated soft tissues.
• Understand the rules of treatment specific to Adhesive Capsulitis.
• Apply modalities and manual methods to treat fibrosis and adhesions in the soft tissue structures around and within the glenohumeral joint as well as associated contracted muscle tissue.
• Rehabilitate weak and atrophied muscles using stretching, exercise and modalities.

• Describe the relationship among SLAP tears, posterior shoulder tightness and scapula dyskinesis  
• Explain how to perform the modified dynamic labral shear test and summarize the clinical usefulness of this test
• Cite the clinical prediction rule (CPR) for favorable outcome in patients undergoing conservative management for SLAP lesions
• Paraphrase the efficacy of conservative treatment for patients with SLAP disorders.
• List one indication for performing an anterior to posterior mobilization of the humerus on the glenoid (posterior shoulder mobilization) 
• Identify one appropriate intervention (specific manual technique or exercise) for phase I, phase II and phase III   SLAP rehabilitation program.

• Describe the relationship among shoulder micro-instability, scapula dyskinesis and hyperlaxity  
• Explain how to perform the surprise test and summarize the clinical usefulness of this test
• Paraphrase the efficacy of conservative treatment for patients with atraumatic shoulder instability.
• Contrast the difference between a capsule reconstruction/ shift and a capsular repair.
• Cite 2 major precautions, and corresponding time frames following an anterior capsule reconstruction or repair (during the first 12 weeks)
• Identify one appropriate intervention (exercise) for phase I, phase II and phase III   post- rehabilitation program following capsular shift / reconstruction or repair

• Compare active cervical range of motion in patients with neck pain to those with whiplash or no neck pain
• Critically appraise and synthesize recommendations of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for the management of common conditions related to traffic collisions
• Investigated the possibility of posttraumatic cervical artery dissections (including those involving the vertebral artery) in patients who have sustained a whiplash injury in a motor vehicle collision
• Update findings from the Neck Pain Task Force regarding the effectiveness of manual therapies, passive physical modalities, and acupuncture for the management of whiplash and neck pain
• Determine which treatments or combinations of treatments are most effective for the management of neck pain- (NAD) and whiplash-associated disorders (WAD)

• Discuss the specific pattern of fibrosis development around and within the iliotibial band found with Iliotibial Band Syndrome at the Hip.
• Discern the effects of the fibrosis and adhesions on the iliotibial band, associated soft tissues and the functional biomechanics of the region.
• Understand the rules of treatment specific to Iliotibial Band Syndrome at the Hip.
• Apply modalities and manual methods to treat fibrosis and adhesions in the soft tissue structures around and within the iliofemoral joint as well as associated contracted muscle tissue.
• Rehabilitate weak and atrophied muscles using stretching, exercise and modalities.

• Discuss the specific pattern of fibrosis development around and within the plantar myofascia of the foot.
• Discern the effects of the fibrosis and adhesions on the plantar fascia, associated soft tissues and the functional biomechanics of the region.
• Understand the rules of treatment specific to Plantar Fasciitis of the Foot.
• Apply modalities and manual methods to treat fibrosis and adhesions in the soft tissue structures around and within the foot and ankle joint as well as associated contracted muscle tissue.
• Rehabilitate weak and atrophied muscles using stretching, exercise and modalities.

• Justify examination of the cervico-thoracic spinal regions for dysfunction in lateral epicondylalgia patients
• Explain and identify posterolateral rotary instability (PLRI) of the elbow
• Optimize clinical assessment and diagnosis for the long head of biceps complex
• Explore the potential pathological commonalities amongst adhesive capsulitis, metabolic syndrome and low-grade inflammation
• Discuss current neuroanatomical and biochemical theories as they pertain to shoulder pain and its clinical management

• Assess the effectiveness of three nonsurgical interventions on symptoms, physical function, and physical activity in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.
• Compare the effectiveness of a structured, comprehensive conservative treatment program with a focus on self-management and improved walking ability (including lumbar manipulation, exercise and education) to a self-directed program in patients with neurogenic claudication due to lumbar spinal stenosis.
• Summarize the 2013 North American Spine Society (NASS) clinical guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis.
• Examine the literature pertaining to the diagnostic accuracy of available tests for lumbar spinal stenosis.
• Analyze the effectiveness of the 6-week Boot Camp Program for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

• Explain the biomechanics of the TMJ
• Describe the examination of the TMJ
• Describe the pathological conditions of the TMJ
• Demonstrate soft tissue treatments for pathological conditions of the TMJ
• Define functional relationships of the TMJ with associated regions

Introduction

• Distinguish the anatomical structures involved in TMJ dysfunction, including the temporomandibular joint, mandible, and associated muscles and the different types of jaw movements and their biomechanical implications.
• Interpret the normal biomechanics of the temporomandibular joint during various jaw movements.
• Identify the key ligaments and soft tissues supporting the temporomandibular joint and the factors that can lead to abnormal biomechanics and dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint.
• Explain the role of muscle imbalances and joint misalignments in TMJ dysfunction.
• Differentiate the relationship between the temporomandibular joint and adjacent anatomical structures.

Examination

• Appraise the various assessment tools used in evaluating TMJ dysfunction, such as patient history, physical examination, and imaging studies.
• Arrange a comprehensive physical examination of the temporomandibular joint, including range of motion assessment, palpation, loading, stressing, and compressing.
• Demonstrate the ability to perform a comprehensive evaluation of TMJ dysfunction and posture, including assessing range of motion, muscle strength, joint stability, and postural alignment.
• Discriminate the indications of differential diagnoses for TMJ dysfunction.
• Analyze the findings from a TMJ dysfunction and posture assessment to formulate an accurate clinical diagnosis.

Mobilization and Adjusting

• Develop a holistic approach to managing TMJ dysfunction, considering both conservative and interventional treatment options.
• Apply specific chiropractic techniques and adjustments aimed at restoring normal joint alignment and function of the temporomandibular joint and about occlusal splints and their use in managing TMJ dysfunction.
• Propose a role of therapeutic exercises and stretching in improving jaw mobility and strengthening supporting muscles and the importance of patient education and lifestyle modifications in the management of TMJ dysfunction.
• Develop a treatment plan for patients with TMJ dysfunction and posture issues, incorporating therapeutic exercises, manual therapy techniques, postural re-education, and other appropriate interventions.
• Evaluate the efficacy of potential benefits and risks associated with various treatment modalities for TMJ dysfunction and posture problems, considering evidence-based practices and patient-specific factors

• Explain the biomechanics of the ankle and foot.
• Administer thorough examination of the ankle and foot.
• Differentially diagnose the pathological conditions of the ankle and foot.
• Perform soft tissue treatments for the ankle and foot.
• Apply functional relationships of the ankle and foot to associated regions for thorough evaluation and treatment.

• Compare headache criteria and classifications from the World Health Organization, International Headache Society and Cleveland Clinic for chronic, acute and traumatic headaches. 
• Explain primary and secondary headaches for patient comprehension and communication of their condition with other healthcare practitioners. 
• Devise appropriate history, examination and treatment protocols for your adult and child headache patient.
• Utilize Headache categories and criteria to accurately diagnose your patient’s condition for migraines, cluster headaches, tension headaches, medication induced headaches, traumatic headaches and more. 
• Determine headache sequela that may be emergencies for adult and youth headache sufferers.

• Explain the biomechanics of the shoulder
• Describe the examination of the shoulder
• Describe the pathological conditions of the shoulder
• Demonstrate soft tissue treatments for pathological conditions of the shoulder
• Define functional relationships of the shoulder with associated regions 

• Interpret cranial bone, suture and meninges anatomy applicable to the practice of Craniopathy treatment.
• Relate the principles of Craniopathy and cranial faults to their effect on the brain regarding headaches and other conditions.
• Assess the temporomandibular joint, cranial faults and the cervical spine as they interrelate for effective headache treatment protocols.
• Examine cranial bones and sutures using Applied Kinesiology.
• Apply treatment protocols using Craniopathy for cranial bones and sutures, and manipulative therapeutics and manual methods for treating the TMJ and cervical spine.

• Discuss the immediate effect of different sitting postures during a standardized computer task on perceived pain in healthy participants 
• Analyze the immediate and short-term effects of three common sitting postures (slouched, upright and supported sitting with a backrest) on pain, lumbar range of motion, proprioception and trunk muscle activity in asymptomatic subjects
• Summarize the evidence regarding the association between objectively measured sitting time and immediate increases in perceived low back pain 
• Compare the effectiveness of the Smart Work and Life (SWAL) intervention, with and without a height adjustable desk, on daily sitting time during and outside of work

• Determine spinal cord, nerve root and nerve root injuries of the upper extremity.
• Diagnose nerve impingement along the median, musculocutaneous, radial, ulnar, axillary, long thoracic, spinal accessory, suprascapular and greater occipital nerves.
• Detect Pronator Syndrome, Anterior Interosseous Syndrome, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Radial Tunnel Syndrome, Posterior Interosseous Nerve Syndrome, Distal Posterior Interosseous Nerve Syndrome and Guyon’s Tunnel Syndrome.
• Apply Manual Methods for treatment of upper extremity nerve compression/elongation and associated syndromes.
• Apply Modalities for treatment of upper extremity nerve compression/elongation and associated syndromes.

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Management of Common Conditions 269 through Management of Common Conditions 271

Hour 1

• Describe the relevance of clinical history as it relates to chronic stress and trauma.
• Recognize signs and symptoms of sympatheticotonia.
• Recognize signs and symptoms of possible CTE.
• Determine appropriate individualized examination procedures based on history answers.

Hour 2

• Refer for diagnosis and advanced testing for CTE.
• Describe layered components of restrictions including updated osseous, muscular, and fascial relational anatomy.
• Describe how to palpate muscle tension versus fascial adhesion versus fascial tension lines.
• Differentiate between osseous restriction, muscular tension, and fascial restriction as they relate to spinal motion restriction.
• Use palpatory findings to select technique application for adjustments that last longer by addressing mechanical root cause and encourage parasympathetic dominance at rest.

Hour 3

• Describe the difference between static misalignments and dynamic spinal restrictions (joints incapable of full range of motion).
• Differentiate with palpation both static and dynamic spinal restrictions.
• Describe neurological information gathered from palpation
• Palpate the patient with chronic pain, trauma history, and/or sympatheticotonia without triggering sympathetic bracing.

Hour 4

• Describe the Oxford Grading Scale for manual muscle testing.
• Describe interpretation of manual muscle testing findings, including differentials for clinical significance of findings other than normal.
• Demonstrate manual muscle testing of major postural muscles.
• Apply manual muscle testing as pre- and post-clinical intervention measures during adjustment visits and to track change during review examination.

Hour 1

• List the relevant indications to assess for imbalance in cross-crawl patterning.
• Describe testing procedures to determine specific cross-crawl pattern imbalances.
• Describe testing procedures to assess for signs of dysautonomia.
• Assess patients for cranial and spinal nerve involvement and refer as appropriate

Hour 2

• Perform seated functional range of motion testing with segmental and curve analysis.
• Perform standing functional range of motion testing with segmental and curve analysis.
• Describe considerations that required modification to common orthopedic tests
• List the orthopedic exam procedures specifically relevant to Fascial Kinetic Chain tension.

Hour 3

• Describe clinical considerations in terms of safety of providing care (knowing when to adjust and when NOT to adjust).
• Define what is “primary” (including considerations of “cause” as well as “least stressful point of access” to determine what to adjust or otherwise apply therapeutic input).
• Recognize patterns of and describe gestalt clinical interpretation for different conditions
• Describe patterns of peripheral nerve interference found through synthesis of clinical history and exam procedures.

Hour 4

• Summarize the concept of an initial Therapeutic Trial of care, including reasoning behind it and how to complete this extension of initial assessment in order to customize patient care.
• Describe considerations for technique selection (including where to start, how intensely to adjust, and how to adjust).
• Explain reasoning behind initial frequency of care, and how/when/why to modify this frequency.
• Describe the considerations for projecting response to care and prognosis.
• Summarize guidelines for patient home care recommendations, including considerations for movement and rest, ergonomics, nutrition, and referrals when appropriate.

• Describe pertinent differential diagnoses for facial pain 
• Breakdown the available interventions available for chronic pain secondary to temporomandibular disorders 
• Compare the effectiveness of two types of treatment – dry needling and upper cervical spinal manipulation versus interocclusal splint therapy, topical NSAIDs and TMJ mobilization for patients with temporomandibular disorder 
• Evaluate the comparative effectiveness of cervical versus combined cervico-craniomandibular manual therapy in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD)

• Develop a better understanding of the clinical course of low back pain across different pain durations and populations 
• Assess the literature linking hip biomechanics to low back pain 
• Outline prolonged standing pain developer characteristics and risk factors associated with standing-induced low back pain 
• Investigate the clinical and cost effectiveness of an individualized, progressive walking and education program for preventing recurrences of low back pain 
• Examine the effects of diagnostic labels for low back pain on patients’ perceived need for imaging and other aspects of their condition

• Update the 2013 Cochrane review and determine the current state of the literature on non-operative treatment for neurogenic claudication caused by lumbar spinal stenosis 
• Summarize a treatment algorithm for the management of lumbar spinal stenosis derived from and international expert Delphi consensus process 
• Identify the relevant clinical indicators and pertinent physical examination procedures that can assist in the identification of peripheral arterial diseases or lower limb blood flow limitations 
• Assess the value of adding spinal manipulation and electrical dry needling to standard physical therapy for lumbar spinal stenosis patients 
• Evaluate whether primary care patients with lumbar spinal stenosis symptoms benefit from programs designed for patients with non-specific low back pain

• Explain the origin of the vagus nerve, its anatomy, and its critical role in regulating bodily functions, including its connection to the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
• Describe common causes of headaches and explore how the vagus nerve contributes to the pathophysiology of headache conditions.
• Discuss the science behind vagus nerve stimulation, its impact on neurological pathways, and its therapeutic benefits for treating headaches, epilepsy, treatment-resistant depression, reduced anxiety, and improved mood.
• Assess the efficacy and limitations of vagus nerve stimulation as a non-invasive treatment for headache reduction, referencing current research and clinical findings.
• Review the range of vagus nerve stimulation devices, from surgically implanted medical devices to over-the-counter options, and discuss their appropriate uses and considerations.

• Identify the different types of headaches, their triggers, and how they affect the nervous system, particularly through the trigeminal nerve and thalamus
• Examine how temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction can contribute to headaches and how chiropractic care can effectively address this issue
• Discuss how stress, poor posture, food choices, and other lifestyle factors can contribute to headaches, and how adjustments in these areas can improve symptoms
• Assess the benefits of chiropractic adjustments in reducing headache frequency and severity by improving spinal alignment and nerve function
• Provide guidance on selecting a chiropractor who specializes in TMJ-related headaches and other misalignment issues to achieve optimal patient outcomes.

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Manipulation 103 through Manipulation 114

• Determine the effect of chiropractic on movement time
• Assess the effects of spinal manipulation and ultrasound on chronic low back pain
• Describe heart rate variability as a measurement tool
• Assess the effects of chiropractic on heart rate variability

• Determine the effect of thoracic spine manipulation on autonomic output to the heart
• Review criteria for the diagnosis of cervicogenic headaches
• Describe a clinical assessment for cervicogenic headaches
• Assess the effects of chiropractic and spinal manipulation on cervicogenic headaches

• Describe spinal manipulation use by time, place, and person, identify predictors of the use of spinal manipulation
• Review cost-effectiveness of SMT compared to other treatment options for people with spinal pain of any duration
• Describe the current literature on patient-centered outcomes following a specific type of commonly used SM, high-velocity low-amplitude (HVLA), in patients with LBP
• Review the putative mechanical features of the subluxation and three theories that form the foundation for much of chiropractic practice

• Provide an overview of research on the effects of spinal manipulation on sensory processing, motor output, functional performance and sensorimotor integration
• Examine performance based outcome measures used in an attempt to objectively measure the ramifications of spinal manipulation
• Update knowledge regarding several physical characteristics of an applied SMT, and review what is known about the signaling characteristics of sensory neurons innervating the vertebral column in response to spinal manipulation
• Review the physiological evidence that spinal manipulation can impact visceral function