Many patients present with muscular tension, fascial restrictions, fibrosis, edema and other connective tissue problems that inhibit the structures necessary for normal speech, swallowing and voice. These tissue deficits will often interfere with our ability to utilize standard interventions and subsequently prevent optimal outcomes. Manual therapy is a method of using skilled touch to assess and provide specific movements of joints and soft tissue to improve tissue extensibility; increase range of motion; induce relaxation; mobilize or manipulate soft tissue and joints; modulate pain; and reduce soft tissue swelling, inflammation, or restriction.
There are many types of manual therapy techniques such as manual lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, massage, stretch, mobilization/manipulation, and passive range of motion. This intimate hands-on training will provide those working with speech, voice and swallowing disorders an introduction to some basic manual therapy techniques to analyze and address the tissue problems that may be interfering with normal sensory and movement patterns. This will in turn allow for a better designed intervention plan and result in overall improved outcomes. This course is a must for anyone treating NPC or other head and neck cancer patients.
You will experience manual therapy as a clinician and a patient. This course will provide training for hands-on touch to the head, face, jaw, neck, upper shoulders and upper chest. Please wear comfortable clothes that will allow you to confidently lie down and get up repeated times. Gym clothes or leggings are most appropriate. You must also wear a shirt that allows for skin contact of the shoulders and upper chest. A tank like or athletic top is best. You must feel comfortable with placing your hands on others in a therapeutic manner and likewise having others place their hands on you.
The benefits of touch are many, from soothing a hypersensitive nervous system, to improving sleep patterns, and boosting the immune system. You will not only learn how to provide such an important therapy to your patients but you will also receive an extra benefit from
experiencing the therapy first hand.
Date: 11 Mar 2023 (Sat) / 12 Mar 2023 (Sun) /15 Mar 2023 (Wed)
Time: 9:00am to 6:30pm (Tea Breaks and Lunch is provided)