-
Friday 8:00AM – 5:00PM (Online)
Saturday 3:00PM-8:00PM (In-person lab)
Sunday 8:00AM – 5:00PM (In-person lab)
Follow-Up Session: October 6th, 4:00PM-8:00PM (Online)
*full attendance is required to receive course certificate
-
Lecture, discussion, case studies and lab
Lab component involves internal palpation
An optional half-day clinical shadow or a 1 hour virtual consult within 3 months of course completion
-
This course examines, in an evidence-based approach, the presentation, pathophysiology, and physical therapy evaluation and interventions for adults of all gender expressions experiencing bladder and bowel dysfunction, incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.Theory, research, demonstration, and practical sessions including subjective/objective assessment and treatment of these conditions will be included. Examination of the pelvic floor via perineal observation, internal vaginal and rectal exam; treatment techniques specific to assessment findings; and the use of EMG biofeedback in small groups will be covered.
Class size is limited to ensure optimum learning, practice, and translation of skill. Instruction on how to screen for low estrogen, vulvar skin and vaginal pain conditions for proper referral and/or treatment will be included. A common sense, evidence-informed, and critical thinking approach will be implemented throughout the course. Participants will be challenged to problem-solve. The physiotherapist will leave the course with new conditions to treat and skills to use immediately on return to their office the next day! EMG biofeedback units will be available for each group of 2-3 physical therapists throughout the course for all lab sessions. Course participants will participate in the lab/practical session which will involve perineal, vaginal and/or rectal examination.
Our courses focus on active rather than passive techniques. Treatment techniques are supported by incontinence, prolapse and pain science peer-reviewed literature. Learn new techniques for your “tool box” that are not myofascial or trigger point related. There is an emphasis on client empowerment through education and active treatment.
Course participants also receive an optional 1/2 day clinical shadow opportunity OR a 1-hour scheduled phone or Zoom consult with course instructor within 3 months of course completion.
-
Understand pelvic floor anatomy
Understand the anatomy and physiology of typical bladder and bowel control mechanisms.
Understand the causes, different diagnoses, pathophysiology, prevalence, and clinical presentation of various conditions that affect bladder and bowel control.
Know how to recognize the clinical presentation of the above conditions.
Know when to administer a voiding and/or fibre diary and how to provide dietary and behavioural intervention as indicated from the completed diary.
Understand the causes, different diagnoses, pathophysiology, prevalence and clinical presentation of pelvic organ prolapse.
Know how to recognize the clinical presentation of pelvic organ prolapse.
Be able to perform a subjective and objective assessment of the above conditions, including examination of the pelvic floor via perineal observation, internal vaginal and rectal examination.
Be able to screen and refer for low estrogen, vulvar autoimmune diseases and other vaginal conditions, as well as an understanding of medical treatments for these conditions.
Understand and have exposure to actual pessaries and their use for incontinence and prolapse.
Understand and have exposure to penile clamps and inserts for the management of male stress urinary incontinence.
Be comfortable with the use of EMG biofeedback for both pelvic floor assessment and treatment.
Be able to provide evidence-informed treatments for above conditions based on research and clinical reasoning.
Be able to differentiate between pelvic floor proprioception/motor control and strength issues.
Be able to provide guidelines for general exercise and activities of daily living when pelvic floor dysfunction is present.
Have explored and understand concepts of appropriate co-contraction of the transversus abdominis and the pelvic floor.
Have explored and understand concepts of pelvic floor hypertonicity and increased tone in patients with no neurological deficit.
Understand the impact of these conditions on people’s lives in all aspects of biopsychosocial function.
Understand appropriate outcome measures.
**This course is open to Registered Physical Therapists, physicians, nurse practitioners, midwives, registered nurses, naturopaths and physical therapy students.