Manage the Frozen Shoulder with Myofascial Therapy

Course Description

Shoulder pain is prevalent in between 2.4% and 26% of the population, resulting in significant financial burden, pain and loss of quality of life.  According to the APTA’s Clinical Practice Guidelines, mobilization and exercise are important components of shoulder pain management.  Too often clinicians are ready to perform joint manipulation/mobilization with disregard for the soft tissue component of the stiff shoulder.  Myofascial restrictions may limit shoulder mobility and function and must be addressed as part of a plan of care.  When fascia becomes scarred from inflammation, injury, postural habits or disease, its tension adversely impacts functional mobility and physical activity.  Manual therapy may include myofascial work to release abnormal tension and restore mobility and function and identify fascial restrictions using motion testing and palpation. Applying specific manual and movement interventions to address mobility deficits, improve circulation, and decrease pain in people presenting with shoulder pain and mobility deficits can help achieve improved functional outcomes.

Course Objectives

At the end of this course, the participant will be able to:

1. Explain the anatomy and function of the fascia and how myofascial release (MFR) may be used to modify scar tissue restrictions which limit functional mobility.
2. Discuss the theory and evidence supporting myofascial and movement as part of a manual therapy intervention to improve mobility and function of the Shoulder.
3. Apply selected myofascial and movement techniques to the shoulder/cervical / scapular region to lengthen restricted tissue, reduce pain, and improve functional mobility.

• Prerequisites

  None

• Educational Level

  Intermediate

• Other

  Satisfactory completion of this course will require the participant to complete a 10 question post-test with a minimum passing score of 70%.