Myofascial Release (MFR) manual therapy workshop in Dysphagia Management – Workshop C

Course Description

This interactive two-day workshop for rehabilitation teams will address evaluation and current treatment techniques appropriate for soft tissue and joint limitations that contribute to an abnormal swallow. The lecture reviews muscular and fascial anatomy tying kinesiology into a discussion that relates specific soft tissue mobilization techniques appropriate to improving all stages of the swallow; oropharyngeal, hypopharyngeal and pharyngesophageal. A thorough discussion will relate the impact of scar tissue formation and immobility on mechanical and neurological aspects of the functional swallow. Interpretation of common pathology and symptomatology on both bedside exam and MBS review are introduced. Additional course objectives include postural impairment, functional anatomy and biomechanics of the temporomandibular joint with an informative and focused laboratory component providing STs, PTs and OTs with basic practical skills in palpation, seating and positioning and soft tissue assessment and mobilization as it pertains to dysphagia in clinical practice. The majority of this course will be in functional, hands-on application with frequent case study discussion to identify impairments and exemplify the use of manual therapy through myofascial release techniques in both adult and pediatrics populations. The emphasis of this practical seminar is placed on the relationship of soft tissue and joint articulations whereby applying theory to practical intervention with manual therapy adds a whole new dimension to patient care.

Course Objectives

• At the completion of this course participants will be able to:
• Review the anatomy and physiology pertaining to myofascial specific to deglutition and discuss the kinesiology of a successful swallow
• Explain abnormal pathophysiology and myofascial restrictions as they relate to dysphagia; radiation fibrosis, surgical scarring, tracheostomy, etc.
• Describe consequences of muscular and soft tissue dysfunction and their effects on swallowing; spasticity, imbalance, etc.
• Discuss the indications, precautions and contraindications for myofascial mobilization in the context of dysphagia
• Identify postural dysfunction and complications as they relate to dysphagia
• Demonstrate evaluation and basic mobilization skills and modifications for intra- and extra-oral soft tissue, hyolaryngeal motion and postural dysfunction
• Identify and relate the significance of myofascial pain in trigger points to deglutition and apply specific manual techniques in approach to treatment
• Describe basic structure and dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint with specific application to trismus and mastication
• Identify a proper treatment approach utilizing manual techniques through multiple case study based on the significant findings in evaluation
• Discuss appropriate documentation and reimbursement issues

All course registrants must successfully complete the online Anatomy of Swallowing course prior to attending the live Myofascial Release course so it is fresh in your mind.