Introduction to Evidence-Based Manual Therapy

Presented by Chad Cook and Amy McDevitt

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Video Runtime: 67 Minutes, Learning Assessments: 44 Minutes

This course focuses on the essential foundational information necessary to clearly communicate principles of orthopedic manual therapy, including relevant history, mechanisms of manual therapy, myths and accepted definitions, and descriptions of techniques to assure effective use and communication with colleagues, patients, and payers. Misinformation and a lack of specificity surrounding manual therapy creates confusion and unnecessary heterogeneity in clinical practice. This course will provide the learner with the necessary information and tools to successfully apply content in subsequent courses to clinical practice effectively.

Meet your instructors

Chad Cook

Dr. Cook is a professor at Duke University with a Category A appointment in the Duke Clinical Research Institute and an adjunct appointment in the Department of Population Health Sciences. He is a clinical researcher, physical therapist, and profession advocate with a long history of clinical care excellence and service and…

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Amy McDevitt

Amy McDevitt is an accomplished professional in the field of physical therapy. She earned a bachelor of science degree in biology from Fairfield University in 1996 as well as a master of physical therapy degree in 2000 and a tDPT degree in 2004, both from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. Demonstrating a…

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Chapters & learning objectives

Introduction to the Manual Therapy Course Series

1. Introduction to the Manual Therapy Course Series

The goal of this chapter is to frame the expectations for the course series. The authors will outline their backgrounds, training, philosophy of management, and expectations for the learners of this course series.

History of Manual Therapy

2. History of Manual Therapy

The goal of this chapter is to show the evolution of manual therapy as a treatment philosophy and to explore how science/evidence has reshaped many of the concepts and the understanding of what happens in an OMT approach.

An Operational Definition of Orthopedic Manual Therapy

3. An Operational Definition of Orthopedic Manual Therapy

The goal of this chapter is to demonstrate the problems that are present with OMT terminology. The speaker will outline how we will define OMT throughout the course series and will include supplemental learning material that provides each learner with the common definitions for OMT procedures.

Manual Therapy Myths

4. Manual Therapy Myths

The goal of this chapter is to outline the most prevalent myths associated with manual therapy that are still perpetuated today. The speaker will address myths associated with examination and intervention principles and mechanisms.

Manual Therapy Interventions

5. Manual Therapy Interventions

The goal of this chapter is to provide the types of interventions we will use within the course series and discuss how these are applied in patient care. A demonstration of these techniques will occur.

Naming of Manual Therapy Techniques

6. Naming of Manual Therapy Techniques

The goal of this chapter is to introduce the learner to the naming conventions associated with manual therapy techniques to properly communicate and document procedures. Learners will understand typical techniques and how modifications in these techniques are used to alter the treatment response.

Grading of Manual Therapy Techniques

7. Grading of Manual Therapy Techniques

The goal of this chapter is to discuss the two most common frameworks for applying force-based mobilization and manipulation. Learners will understand the theory behind the grading systems but will also recognize their value in documentation and communication among practitioners.