Case Study Integration (CSI): Lumbar – Recurrent Discogenic Disorder

1.6 CEU/ 16 Contact Hours – Online Course

This online self-paced course provides the learner with keys and steps to solve a complex patient case of recurrent lumbar discogenic pain with confounding factors of hip osteoarthritis, myofascial pain, and thoracolumbar stiffness. The case examines advanced concepts in anatomy and pathology specific to the case, clinical testing and differential diagnoses, and comprehensive treatment strategies. All aspects of a complete plan of care are presented by a panel of authorities in the profession, including soft tissue and joint mobilization, dry needling, and sensorimotor control. Special topics include 1) a multifocal approach to treatment and healing, 2) post-surgical management considerations, and 2) successful communication to build rapport and compliance.

Target Group: PT, PTA, ATC

Educational Level: Intermediate

Course Outline

By the end of the course, the participant will be able to:

• Assess patient history, based on pathoanatomy and biomechanics of lumbar spine and sacroiliac joint, to formulate a working hypothesis of pathology prior to initiating the clinical examination.
• Justify a sound clinical diagnosis for physical therapy by thorough interpretation of clinical examination findings.
• Select specific clinical tests that are the most informative for diagnosis, causal factor, and perpetuator confirmation in a patient with recurrent lumbar spine pain.
• Create a comprehensive plan of care that includes all of the following: soft tissue and joint specific manual therapy, dry needling, and appropriate sensorimotor control strategies focused on segmental stabilization.
• Formulate selective functional testing that supports the specific exercise program prescribed for a patient with discogenic pain and segmental instability of the lumbar spine.
• With the use of evidence-based psychosocial approaches, engage and promote the patient-clinician relationship that leads to building rapport, optimal compliance, and better functional and clinical outcomes.
• Appraise a patient condition pre- and/or post-surgery for potential dysfunctions, weaknesses, and the debilitating ‘adjacent segment syndrome.’
• Support the patient in a multifocal approach to healing by recommending strategies for optimal sleep, hydration, nutrition, and creating a sense of well-being.

• Financial: The instructor(s) receive an honorarium for presenting this course.
• Non-financial: The instructor(s) have no relevant non-financial relationships to disclose.
• Partial credit is not available. For online courses, passing module assessments and completing the course evaluation is required to earn continuing education credit. For live courses, attendance is confirmed by signing the attendance sheet at the course; ensure name and professional license number are accurate, and initial both morning and afternoon attendance.