EIM’s Pelvic Health I course is designed to teach orthopaedic physical and occupational therapists how to effectively integrate the pelvic floor into treatment for clients with low back pain, hip pain, and pelvic girdle dysfunction, as well as selected interventions for patients during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Participants will learn how to screen for pelvic floor dysfunction and effectively integrate external techniques for the pelvic floor into their treatment plans for improved patient outcomes in an orthopaedic population. Techniques taught include manipulations, mobilizations, muscle energy techniques, soft tissue work, and retraining techniques which will enable practitioners to work with patients who have pelvic floor dysfunction using external techniques to maximize outcomes.

This course is being offered in person or as a virtual lab. Learn more about the virtual lab experience here.

Course Objectives/Outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge of the current epidemiology of pelvic floor dysfunction in those with low back pain, hip pain, pelvic pain, and pelvic floor dysfunction.
• Describe and understand the anatomy and physiology of the pelvic floor and pelvis.
• Screen for pelvic floor as a primary pathology or secondary component in clients with hip and low back pathologies.
• Appropriately incorporate the pelvic floor into history and physical exam during evaluations. Identify red flags that warrant a referral back to the physician.
• Demonstrate effective pelvic floor retraining techniques.
• Understand how the pelvis and pelvic floor integrate for movement.
• Demonstrate safe techniques for evaluating and treating the pregnant and postpartum populations.
• Understand the pathology and treatment of coccydynia using external techniques.

Applicability

• Pelvic Health Specialist Certification