OVERVIEW

Upper Limb (OT / Hand Therapist / Physio) Dry Needling Course (1.5 Days)

An intro/intermediate course for evaluation and treatment of neuromyofascial pain and dysfunction present in both the acute and chronic orthopedic population. This course is suitable for any 4 year degree practitioner who has a special interest in upper limb injuries.

Instruction will include evaluation and application of dry needling of neuromyofascial trigger points for musculature which is considered appropriate at the introductory level of training.

This course consists of a combination of online theory (and theory test) as well as a 2 day practical component which includes a regional anatomy review, needle demonstration followed by a large amount of hands-on supervised practical sessions.

There is also a (non-intimidating) practical test to ensure adequate transfer of knowledge to all course participants.

Trigger point dry needling (TDN) will be presented as a tool to evaluate and treat the neuromuscular system. Both the Gunn and Travell & Simons’ techniques will be discussed and demonstrated. Supporting research will be presented and discussed. Treatment safety will be evaluated throughout the course.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Course Outcomes

Define trigger points, motor banding, and neurological presentations of neuromuscular dysfunction
Review literature supporting efficacy and treatment rationale of TDN
Instruct application of TDN for orthopedic and neuromuscular conditions
Review anatomy of regions to be taught in the Upper Limb course
Discuss safety
Discuss indications and contraindications for treatment

Treatable Muscles After Completion

The focus of the Upper Limb course is treatment for pain management and sport related injuries.

The Shoulder and Rotator Cuff
The Hand including Thenar and Hypothenar Eminence
The Upper Extremity including Biceps and Triceps and Forearm Extensors/Flexors

ONLINE LEARNING

Online Learning Modules

GEMt dry needling courses begin with online modules for safety, theory, and anatomy. Access to the online learning platform is provided via email once you have completed course registration. Completion of the online modules is a requirements before attending the course, and you should allow sufficient time to complete them before the course starts.

Module 1: Safety involving:
10 articles
Safety Section from the GEMt manual
Safety Video (23 mins)
Needling Demonstration Video (27 mins)
Theory test (40 mins)
Total = 7-8 hours

Module 2: Theory involving
10 articles
GEMt pain slides
Needle Theory Video (1 hour, 15 mins)
Neuro-myofascial Pain Video (19 mins)
Theory test (40 mins)
Total = 7-8 hours

Module 3: Anatomy involving
Anatomy slides of all muscles covered in course
Anatomy Theory test (45 mins)
Total = 2-3 hours

Total all online modules approx. 16-19 hours

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

Course Eligibility

A degree qualification in either:

Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy or Physical Therapy who work with patients suffering from acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
You must be a registered clinician with Professional Indemnity Insurance to enter this course
Course participants are required to act as subjects as required for the duration of the course.
This course is not advisable for anyone who is pregnant (unless they are prepared to bring a friend willing to be needled on their behalf)