Pelvic PT Level 1

Course description:  This 3-day course provides physical therapists with practical knowledge and skill in the treatment of female urinary incontinence, with an introduction to the treatment of pelvic pain. Instruction in pelvic floor muscle function, anatomy, physiology, and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction will provide the clinician with skills for immediate clinical application and build the base for future courses. This course is the first in a series of three courses designed to give the practicing clinician a comprehensive knowledge base in pelvic physical therapy treatment. Course content is evidence based, and will promote the use of the most reliable tests and validated outcomes measures. Instruction in vaginal examination of the pelvic floor is a key component of this course. Participants will perform and experience intra-vaginal EMG biofeedback and electrical stimulation.

Pelvic PT Level 2

Course description:  This 3-day course is intended to advance the physical therapist's examination, evaluation and intervention skills. Lab sessions will focus on rectal examination skills, coccyx mobilization, abdominal wall assessment, and vaginal treatment of pelvic floor pain conditions. Participants will practice manual skills for internal and external treatment of the perineum and pelvic floor. Didactic topics will include bowel/colon anatomy and physiology, defecation disorders, and pelvic pain disorders (including IBS, vulvodynia, pudendal neuralgia, vaginismus, painful bladder syndromes, and endometriosis). All information is evidence based.

Pelvic PT Level 3

Course description:  This 3-day course will provide clinically relevant information and training for the evaluation and treatment of male urinary incontinence, life span specific considerations, and individuals with neurological involvement. Lab will focus on EMG relaxation training and integration of complete vaginal and rectal examination learned in previous coursework. Lecture will include the pathophysiology and physical therapy evaluation and treatment of male patients, pediatric and geriatric populations, and pelvic floor intervention with neurologic patients. Changes in the pelvic organs throughout the lifecycle and interdisciplinary treatment of pelvic dysfunction will be reviewed. Course content is evidence based, and will promote the use of the most reliable tests and validated outcomes measures.