Muscle Energy Techniques for the Cervical Spine: Evaluation & Treatment – Terry Bemis

Course Description

Muscle Energy Techniques for the Cervical Spine: Evaluation & Treatment – Terry Bemis

Now Available: A Gentle and Safe Approach for Treating the Cervical Spine!

Muscle Energy Techniques (MET) are used to treat both adaptively shortened muscles and hypo-mobile joints and the pain associated with these conditions. The problem arises when these techniques are employed with simple gross motions and muscle contractions. This does not address specific segments and is ineffective. By contrast, therapists see much better outcomes when they focus on highly specific and detailed localization procedures to address cervical motion segments for improving neck ROM and reducing pain.

This recording begins with an overview of the key anatomical structures, bio-mechanics, precautions and the science and principles for muscle energy techniques for the cervical spine. Then it is on to the labs, as you get a chance to practice palpation, mobility testing, extension and flexion techniques, and joint evaluation and treatment. The course concludes with demonstrations of appropriate home exercises to support the manual procedures.

1. Identify and palpate important anatomical structures of the cervical spine
2. Explain the principles and precautions for Muscle Energy Techniques
3. Perform motion restriction assessments for the cervical spine segments
4. Demonstrate Muscle Energy Techniques for the entire cervical spine
5. Choose appropriate exercises for a home exercise program to support techniques

EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE VS. EVIDENCE-INFORMED PRACTICE
ANATOMY OF CERVICAL SPINE

• Structures to palpate
• Upper spine (Occiput, Atlas and Axis)
• Typical segments (C3-C7)

BIOMECHANICS OF CERVICAL SPINE

• OA Joint
• AA Joint
• Typical motion segments (C2/3 to C6-C7)

EVALUATION PROCESS

• History
• Red flags
• Physical Examination
• Special Tests

PALPATION AND SPECIAL TESTS LABORATORY
PRINCIPLES OF MUSCLE ENERGY TECHNIQUES (MET)

• Contraindications and precautions

MET LABORATORY 1

• Cervical Mobility Testing C2-C7
• Extension Technique C2-C7

MET LABORATORY 2

• Flexion Technique C2-C7
• AA Joint Evaluation and Treatment
• OA Joint Evaluation and Treatment

EXERCISES FOR HOME PROGRAM TO SUPPORT MET