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FUNCTIONAL METHODS IN OSTEOPATHIC PALPATORY DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

A PROPOSAL FOR BASIC COMPREHENSIVE INSTRUCTION IN THE APPROACHES DEVELOPED BY WILLIAM L. JOHNSTON DO, FAAO

Course Description

Osteopathic physicians have always focused on structural components of health and disease to deliver optimum health care to their patients. They consider the relationship between body structure and function to be complementary and reciprocally interactive.

While various approaches to structural diagnosis and treatment have been favored, few have presented a biomechanical problem solving and treatment method that considers the function of the neuromusculoskeletal system as a whole…Traditionally, our theoretical framework is grossly refined to the segmental and the positional configuration of the joint and its surrounding tissues. The function of the system as a whole is thought to be enhanced by the proper diagnosis and treatment of these local disturbances.

But if we begin to think about these local disturbances as reflections of system-wide dysfunction or disturbed motor programs, then we can appreciate how different parts of the body are inter-related and working together to reinforce body-wide patterns of dysfunction. The functional approaches of William L. Johnston DO, embraced just this type of problem solving focus and palpatory development. The segmental disturbance reflects imbalances within the system as a whole that can be palpated in response to functional motion demands placed on the entire body. When treated in light of these functional inter-relationships, entire motor chains of primary and secondary disturbances, resolve in one treatment procedure.

In this series of two 20-hour courses, participants will learn palpatory testing procedures for identifying primary motor system disturbances and their resolution using Functional treatment methods. Both regional and segmental motion tests will be presented with the emphasis on active "responses" of the tissue to passive motion testing "demands". Body regions will each be presented in a different section of the course, each one uniquely considered in light of its functional and anatomical relation to the rest of the body. They include cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine, pelvis, costal cage and appendages. Treatment approaches taught will generally employ an indirect technique, bringing tissues into a state of dynamic balance and ease to affect an optimal treatment response.

Course instructor is Harry D. Friedman DO, FAAO, co-author of the book "Functional Methods, A Manual for Palpatory Skill Development in Osteopathic Examination and Manipulation of Motor Function", now in its second edition. Dr. Friedman is the co-founder of San Francisco International Manual Medicine Society (SFIMMS), and has published other books through SFIMMS Press. He also is engaged in ongoing research in functional diagnosis and treatment methods, specifically studying inter-examiner agreement. Table trainers will also be present to enhance the learning experience.


Course Details

Part I:

  • Sep 15 - 17, 2006 — $650
    Western University College of Osteopathic Medicine - Pomona, CA
    Fri 3pm - 7pm & Sat/Sun 8am - 5pm
    Cancelled

  • Apr 12-15, 2007 — $750
    Vail Marriott, Vail CO
    Thu-Sun 7:00am-11:30am

  • May 18 - 20, 2007 — $650
    Western University College of Osteopathic Medicine - Pomona, CA
    Fri 3pm - 7pm & Sat/Sun 8am - 5pm
    Changed from Part II to Part I

Enrollment open to MD's and DO's (CME will be provided). To register go to www.jamesealous.com or call Marnee Jealous Long at +1-813-649-6708.

NOTE: Previous introduction to Manual Medicine recommended

If you have any questions or would like additional information about SFIMMS or these courses, please email us (admin@sfimms.com).

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