Arizona Chiropractic Continuing Education

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Acupuncture 400 through Acupuncture 461

Musculoskeletal

• Explain the causes behind Musculoskeletal Injuries
• Compare the minimum/maximum times during the Acute, Repair, and Remodeling Phase of Recovery
• Summarize protocols for acute inflammation
• Demonstrate a Kinetic Chain Assessment
• Explain why indirect cause of injury can be as disabling due to tissue overuse and overload
• Contrast and compare male vs female most common extremity injuries
• Contrast the differences between high school, collegiate, and professional athletic injuries
• Summarize how gold-standard management drives lower injury rates and duration
  

Nutrition

• Develop components of a typical healthy meal plan for athletes
• Differentiate between healthy and unhealthy food choices in each category of FAT, CHO, PRO
• Identify problem foods specific to the individual athlete
• Explain CHO loading and examples of high glycemic index foods
• Describe meal plan for post-exercise "window of recovery"
• Describe benefits and sources of branched chain amino acids for athletic recovery
• Explain purpose of omega 3 fatty acids during recovery phase of athletic activity
• Define components of female athlete triad
• List vitamins and minerals required to rebuild bone health in female athlete triad
• Name ergogenic nutrients acceptable to the World Anti-Doping Agency

Dehydration

• Explain difference between dehydration and hyponatremia
• Recognize early or acute signs and symptoms of dehydration and hyponatremia
• Discuss benefits of each method of determining hydration status
• Demonstrate treatment intervention for heat cramps
• Compare energy drink to sports drink

Concussion

• Define and recognize brain concussion, second impact syndrome, and chronic traumatic encephalopathy.
• Describe frequency of sports concussion and common duration of signs and symptoms.
• Describe all possible results of head trauma, including second impact syndrome, intracranial hematoma, skull fracture, brain contusion, cervical injury (both mild and dangerous)
• Differentiate and rule out dangerous results from head trauma.
• Demonstrate proper exam procedures following head trauma on field.
• Demonstrate proper exam procedures to clear the cervical spine on field.
• Perform the SCAT 3 exam and describe how it is to be used both on field and in the office.
• Describe how and why one performs serial exams after head trauma on field.
• Describe return to play protocols for concussed athletes.
• Describe prevention procedures for sports concussion.

• Identify ideal walking gait biomechanics
• Discuss the indexed literature surrounding movement patterns, gait impairments and compensations.
• Analyze arm swing, leg swing, and interlimb timing and coordination.
• Interpret local foot biomechanics and compensations.

• Evaluate the evidence for chiropractic care for pregnancy-related low back pain and pelvic girdle pain
• Assess the effectiveness of treatments within the chiropractic scope of practice for low back pain, pelvic girdle pain, or combination pain during the postpartum period
• Summarize best-practice recommendations for chiropractic care of pregnant and postpartum patients

• Summarize the three stages of pregnancy.
• Recognize common pregnancy abbreviations.
• List the benefits of exercise during pregnancy.
• Explain how the hormones, relaxin and hCG, can impact physical activity.
• Design a subjective and history taking examination for a pregnant patient.
• Complete a physical examination on a pregnant patient including common complaints such as pelvic girdle pain and low back pain.
• Assess patient positions to ensure comfort and safety during physical assessments and/or rehabilitation.
• Recognize when to refer a pregnant patient to another specialty for evaluation and treatment.
• Identify pelvic health dysfunction and determine appropriate referral.

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Concussion 201 through 202

Hour 1 and 2

• Describe the components of the core and the function of the core.
• Describe the function of the diaphragm as it relates to posture, muscular relationships and stability of the spine.
• Describe the function and structure of the superficial muscle system of the body.
• Describe two concepts of spinal stability. 

Hour 3

• Demonstrate how to determine the length of quadratus lumborum and erector spinae. 
• Demonstrate how to evaluate Transversus abdominus function
• Demonstrate how to facilitate the core and initiate a core training program

Hour 4

• List three pathologies related to less than optimal core function.
• Describe three postural strategies that the patient may develop when the core is in dysfunction.
• Describe how weakness of the abdominals can alter diaphragm contractions.
• Explain how respiratory fatigue can alter core control.

• Discuss the theories of why aging is now seen as a disease, characterized by chronic inflammation, which could potentially be stopped or even reversed. 
• Share how persistent, low-level inflammation (inflammaging) contributes to the deterioration of cellular and systemic functions, driving the aging process and the development of age-related chronic diseases.
• Examine the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in aging, exploring how improving mitochondrial health can promote longevity and reduce age-related decline.
• Identify clinical strategies to integrate mitochondrial health and anti-inflammatory practices into patient care to enhance healthy aging and mitigate the impact of chronic diseases.
• Introduction to low-level laser therapy, its core principles, and its mechanism of action for healing and optimizing cellular function.
• Explain the role of the mitochondria in cellular energy production and overall health.
• Review evidence-based applications of low-level laser therapy in promoting mitochondrial health via evidence-based research findings and data.
• Discuss practical approaches for integrating low-level laser therapy into clinical practice to enhance patient outcomes in managing mitochondrial dysfunction and promoting cellular rejuvenation.
• Share the global impact of metabolic dysfunction and discuss the effects of obesity driving chronic inflammation and its link to chronic health conditions.
• Discuss the mechanisms through which excess body fat and underlying metabolic dysfunction contributes to inflammatory processes and hormonal/endocrine dysfunction.
• Elaborate on clinical insights into effective interventions for combating obesity, improving metabolic health, and reducing inflammation, including dietary changes, physical activity, and sleep.
• Explore emerging therapies and technologies aimed at improving metabolic function and reducing inflammation, focusing on their potential applications in clinical practice.
• Discuss mechanisms of aging and how the aging process is being challenged by both conventional and alternative medical communities. 
• Provide a comprehensive analysis of nutritional, dietary, and lifestyle-based interventions that have shown promising outcomes for improving longevity and quality of life outcomes. 
• Overview of major concepts, themes, and discussions about the importance of diet, nutrition, and controlling blood sugar to optimize metabolic capacity to maximize aging. 
• Examine emerging research on cellular regeneration and mitochondrial function as critical components in slowing the aging process and enhancing longevity.

• Define the Problem Oriented Medical Record (POMR).
• Demonstrate taking a complete patient history.
• Define the Evaluation and Management examination for the musculoskeletal system.
• Define Outcome Assessment.
• Illustrate the P.A.R.T. format of documentation.
• Define proper assessment for SOAP notes.
• Discuss proper documentation of treatment performed on each visit.
• Discuss proper documentation of treatment plans.

• Discern Part B from Part C and know the rules for each
• Discuss mandatory enrollment necessary for Chiropractic specialty
• Master the definition of medical necessity vs. clinical appropriateness and who pays in either case
• Recognize the differences between acute, chronic, and maintenance car
• Locate and understand the Medicare Local Coverage Determination (LCD) for your state including all the rules and guidelines
• Identify CMT coding and how it is differentiated from maintenance in Medicare

• Discern Part B from Part C and know the rules for each
• Discuss mandatory enrollment necessary for Chiropractic specialty
• Master the definition of medical necessity vs. clinical appropriateness and who pays in either case
• Recognize the differences between acute, chronic, and maintenance car
• Locate and understand the Medicare Local Coverage Determination (LCD) for your state including all the rules and guidelines
• Identify CMT coding and how it is differentiated from maintenance in Medicare

• Understand the difference between clinically appropriate and medically necessary care
• Identify the clinical indications of when to initiate therapeutic withdrawal
• Execute the components of a final discharge evaluation with proper documentation and recommendations
• Learn how to transition a client from an active phase of care to maintenance as a part of your treatment plan

• Explore contemporary healthcare issues from the perspective of Robert Lustig, MA and John Abramson, MD.
• Integrate the relevance of these issues to the chiropractic profession.
• Evaluate at the concept of evidence-based “medicine,” especially the “randomized controlled trial,” and describe how it applies to the chiropractic profession.
• Discriminate recent examples of “randomized controlled trials,” especially as related to pain syndromes and opioid drugs.Discusss the importance of the 2021 Nobel Prize for the chiropractic profession and mechanical-based care.
• Detail the physiology of the Piezo1 mechanical receptor.
• Introduce the concepts of mechanical function and mechanical neurology.
• Integrate the importance of the cerebellum to mechanical integrity and mechanical based care.
• Explain a randomized clinical trial that supports mechanical-based chiropractic care for visceral physiology.
• Distinguish the basic physiology of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine.
• State the basic physiology of the neurotransmitter dopamine.
• Outline the basic physiology of the neurotransmitter serotonin.
• Integrate the balance of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin.
• Recite the relationship between the neurotransmitters dopamine, epinephrine and norepinephrine.
• Explore the concept of Heart Rate Variability (HRV).
• Integrate upper cervical chiropractic care, spinal chiropractic care, and HRV.

• Identify the relationship between an upper cervical - trigeminal cervical nucleus and headaches.
• Integrate headache, upper cervical spine, and the temporomandibular joint.
• Distinguish between the clinical management of compressive neuropathology v. supersensitivity nerve interference.
• Identify “red flags” associated with compressive neuropathology.
• Discuss the relationship between mechanoreceptors, the sympathetic nervous system, and neuroimmunology.
• Highlight the uniqueness of upper cervical spine mechanoreceptors and the vagus nerve.
• Describe mechanobiology and diseases of mechanotransduction.
• Explain connective tissue as a body-wide signaling network.
• Summarize some randomized controlled/clinical trials pertaining to chiropractic and/or manipulation care.
• Recall studies looking at the influence of chiropractic care on opioid use.
• Interpolate the importance of sagittal posture on pain and function.
• Examine the importance of sagittal posture on cognition.
• Integrate evolutionary biology, infection, and the existence of chiropractic subluxation.           
• Summarize studies showing the influence of joint adjusting on a variety of visceral syndromes.
• Detail the relationship between an infectious agent and host health.
• Recognize the basic details of neuroimmunology.

• This course contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Functional Medicine and Nutrition Virtual Classroom 201 through 210

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Geriatrics 106 through 108

• Discuss ethical standards of insurance reporting and coding
• Illustrate how documentation can affect state board complaints
• Discuss why insurance companies file complaints against chiropractors
• Discuss why patients file board complaints against chiropractors
• Define the Problem Oriented Medical Record (POMR)
• Illustrate taking a thorough history using the OPQRST method
• Discuss the components of the ortho/neuro exam

Hours 1 - 3

• Discuss ethical standards of insurance reporting and coding
• Illustrate how documentation can affect state board complaints
• Discuss why insurance companies file complaints against chiropractors
• Discuss why patients file board complaints against chiropractors
• Define the Problem Oriented Medical Record (POMR)
• Illustrate taking a thorough history using the OPQRST method
• Discuss the components of the ortho/neuro exam

• Discuss the misrepresentation of certain orthopedic tests
• Illustrate sensitivity and specificity of orthopedic tests
• Define the 2021 changes to Evaluation and Management codes
• Discuss the differences between using time vs. medical decision making for E/M
• Distinguish between subjective and objective outcome assessments Illustrate methods of proving medical necessity
• Illustrate the CMS requirements of chiropractic documentation
• Illustrate condition-specific functional outcome questionnaires
• Define the A of P.A.R.T. from Centers for Medicare/Medicaid Services
• Define the R of P.A.R.T. from Centers for Medicare/Medicaid Services
• Illustrate the different methods of evaluating spinal range of motion
• Define the T of P.A.R.T. from Centers for Medicare/Medicaid Services
• Describe the timing of the first re-assessment
• Demonstrate proper coding for range of motion measurements
• Describe the P.A.R.T. format of documentation
• Define the P of P.A.R.T. from Centers for Medicare/Medicaid Services
• Describe the concept of outcome assessments in clinical practice

• Illustrate different outcome assessments for the T of P.A.R.T
• Demonstrate the POMR and P.A.R.T. formats for the initial patient encounter
• Integrate the POMR and P.A.R.T. formats for subsequent patient encounters
• Discuss proper diagnosing in notes and on a claim form
• Define the short, moderate and long-term diagnoses for Medicare
• Define proper Assessments
• Illustrate how to determine an assessment for each condition
• Illustrate complicating factors that can be documented for each condition

• Illustrate the two types of Plan
• Discuss common therapeutic modalities
• Demonstrate proper documentation for time-based codes
• Illustrate how to document measurable treatment goals
• Describe the red flags of a record review
• Demonstrate the determination of causation for a motor vehicle collision
• Discuss the different mechanisms of injury for motor vehicle collisions
• Discuss some of the key value drivers of Colossus
• Discuss the difference between impairment and disability
• Illustrate the determination of the end of justifiable treatment
• Define the main components of an impairment evaluation
• Illustrate Duties Under Duress and Loss of Enjoyment
• Illustrate the important diagnoses for personal injury cases
• Define the 5 Colossus prognoses
• Demonstrate the 5 grades of injury severity for the Croft Guidelines for the Treatment of CAD Injuries

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed in Government HIPAA and Cybersecurity Compliance 201 - 208

Hour 1

• Discuss the etiology, pathophysiology, and symptoms of trauma and post-auto whiplash.
• Translate how low-level laser impacts inflammation and trauma.
• Explain modern neuron theory and how low-level laser can optimize cellular communication within the PNS/CNS.
• Conceptualize how to change the brain and body by using low-level laser and sensory inputs to modify central circuitry.

Hour 2

• Discuss the interplay between the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.
• Explain how changes in autonomic function affect the brain and body following trauma.
• Share relevant research about the gut/brain connection.
• Give an overview of the neuroinflammatory cascade of trauma and how low-level laser impacts inflammatory processes.

Hour 3

• Discuss the anatomy/physiology of the cerebellum and it’s integration with the cervical spine.
• Outline how changes in cerebellar function and the cervical spine affect the brain and body following trauma
• Explain how low-level laser therapy can optimize structural, neurological, and metabolic parameters following trauma.
• Create a greater understanding for providers to know how to utilize their skillset to treat complex cases.

Hour 4

• Discuss the anatomy and physiology of the visual and vestibular systems.
• Identify how changes in the visual and vestibular system affect the brain and body following trauma.
• Share mechanisms and treatment applications for utilizing low-level laser therapy.
• Create awareness around the modern utilization of structural, neurological, and metabolic treatment paradigms for complex cases.

Hour 1:

• Integrate the following concepts as it pertains to laser therapy:  wavelength, frequency, speed of light, fluence, penetration, secondary and primary physiological influences
• Contrast the differences between thermal and non-thermal laser therapy

Hour 2:

• Conceptualize the relationship between mitochondria, free radicals, ATP, cytochrome coxidase enzyme, and laser photon therapy
• Explain the biphasic nature of laser therapy

Hour 3:

• Introduce evidence as to the integrative physiology between chiropractic care for musculoskeletal pain syndromes and improved systemic health.
• Develop a neuroanatomical and neurophysiological model for the influence of spinal mechanical function with visceral neurology.

Hour 4:

• Correlate upper cervical spine symmetry and the function of the nucleus tractus solitarius of the vagus nerve.
• Explore the mechanical, vascular and cerebrospinal fluid dynamics as related to spinal anatomy.

Hour 5:

• Show the history and modern-day evidence for the influence of exposure to non-ionizing electromagnetic field waveforms.
• Detail the two most plausible mechanisms of exposure non-ionizing electromagnetic field waveforms on human biology.

Hour 6:

• Explore the various relationships from a functional neurological perspective.
• Contrast the relationship between various neurochemicals

Hour 7:

• Justify why many people need between 5-8 different supplements and explain why.
• Connect the link between dietary lectins, leak gut, systemic inflammation and autoimmune conditions.

Hour 8:

• Explain some of the physiological complications to COVID-19.
• Review studies that explain the biological plausibility related to COVID-19.

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Laser 215 through Laser 216

Hour 1

• Discuss the physiology associated with laser therapy
• Describe the electron transport chain
• Examine common cervical and plexus pathologies through orthopedic and soft tissue testing
• Treat the scapular area using non-thermal lasers
• Outline a description of electron volts

Hour 2

• Summarize important factors regarding wavelengths relative to using laser therapy
• Describe mitochondiral function
• Recognize damage to mitochondria and appreciate its role in disease
• Examine patients with potential upper extremity nerve entrapments using orthopedic testing, soft tissue testing 

Hour 3

• Discuss neuron receptors
• Explain pain to patients
• Identify soft tissue structures
• Summarize the function of progenitor cells

Hour 4

• Perform an evaluation of the shoulder
• Perform an evaluation of the elbow
• Perform an evaluation of the wrist and the hand
• Perform an evaluation of the lower extremities

Hour 1:

• Define the Basics of light: Properties of light, electromagnetic spectrum, visible light wavelengths.
• Describe Laser principles: Stimulated emission, different types of lasers, laser safety standards.
• Review the Tissue interaction with light: Absorption, scattering, penetration depth, photothermal and photochemical effects.
• Define Laser safety protocols and equipment
• Discuss Potential risks and adverse effects of laser therapy
• Describe Informed consent and patient education
• Describe Regulatory requirements for laser therapy
• Determine Ethical considerations for laser therapy

Hour 2:

• Clinically use a laser for conditions such as chronic pain and discuss the wavelength, time and other factors
• Clinically use a laser for various conditions seen by Chiropractic Doctors, with specifics to the wavelength, time and other factors
• Review clinical studies demonstrating the use of a laser for various conditions seen by Chiropractic Doctors
• Discuss protocols as discovered in the latest research for successful outcome cases of various conditions seen by Chiropractic Doctors
• Discuss clinical cases with aspects of pain management in acute pain

 Hour 3:

• Review other potential applications for conditions Chiropractic Doctors may encounter
• Give examples of successful laser therapy protocols based on various conditions seen by Chiropractic Doctors
• Discuss clinical studies for the use of laser in various conditions seen by Chiropractic Doctors
• Identify clinical studies that provide empirical support for the user of laser therapy
• Clinical use of lasers in personal injury cases, efficacy, standard of care and application

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Management of Common Conditions 204 through Management of Common Conditions 209

• Explain the biomechanics of the ankle and foot.
• Administer thorough examination of the ankle and foot.
• Differentially diagnose the pathological conditions of the ankle and foot.
• Perform soft tissue treatments for the ankle and foot.
• Apply functional relationships of the ankle and foot to associated regions for thorough evaluation and treatment.

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Management of Common Conditions 269 through Management of Common Conditions 271

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Manipulation 103 through Manipulation 114

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed for NeuroFascial Integration 201 - 203

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Neurology 116 through Neurology 124

• Design an effective nutrition treatment program for carpal tunnel syndrome
• Develop a nutritional treatment program for Multiple Sclerosis
• Investigate the role of nutrition and supplements in regards to the treatment of headaches
• Understand how nutrition and nutrition supplements can influence dementia
• Identify appropriate diet and supplement agents in the treatment of dementia

• Identify behaviors associated with artificial sweeteners
• Examine the main artificial sweeteners used in the United States
• Determine why artificial sweeteners are used in the food industry
• Summarize the general risks associated with artificial sweeteners
• Evaluate the benefits and risks of Neotame and Advantame

• Identify the benefits and risks of Saccharin
• Discover the benefits and risks of Acesulfame potassium
• Summarize the benefits and risks of Sucralose
• Differentiate Aspartame benefits and risks
• Critique the current research on artificial sweeteners and cancer risk
• Explain the effect of artificial sweeteners on the gastrointestinal environment
• Interpret the research on artificial sweeteners and blood sugar

• Distinguish between the negative and positive effects on obesity, weight control and artificial sweeteners
• Identify the natural sweeteners that are generally recognized as safe
• Evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Stevia
• Determine the effectiveness and safety of Luo han guo (Swingle fruit or monk fruit extract)
• Analyze the effectiveness and safety of Thaumatin

• Review exercise physiology principles and techniques
• Analyze various exercise prescription principles
• Identify appropriate carbohydrate – fat – and protein recommendations
• Develop meal timing and fluid guidelines for the athlete

• Review the signs and symptoms of neuroinflammation and the processes that drive neurodegeneration.
• Identify the neurological signs and symptoms of long COVID and apply research-based protocols.
• Utilize dietary improvements and selected supplements to reduce neuroinflammation.
• Treatment protocols on testing to identify gut barrier and gut-brain axis imbalances.
• Recognize that neuroplasticity plays a fluctuating but essential role in health and trauma.
• Understand the effect of bacterial toxins originating in the gut on the gut-brain axis as a key to neurological disorders pathogenesis.
• Assess intestinal and blood-brain barrier dysfunction for better managing chronic neurological disorders.
• Understand new functional nutritional strategies for longevity.
• Incorporate leading-edge protocols for extending healthspan and longevity.
• Clarify the effects of intermittent fasting on immunity and longevity.
• Recognize that neuroplasticity plays a fluctuating but essential role in health and trauma.
• Integrate optimal lifestyle adaptations in diet, exercise, and supplement protocols to enhance neuroplasticity and improve quality of life.

• Demonstrate the inclusion of patient and others, in the education and shared decision-making process for pain care
• Identify treatment options that can be assessed in a comprehensive pain management plan
• Explain how health promotion and self-management strategies are important to the management of pain
• Develop a pain treatment plan based on benefits and risks of available treatments
• Monitor the effects of pain management approaches to adjust the plan of care as needed
• Differentiate physical dependence, substance use disorder, misuse, tolerance, addiction, and nonadherence
• Develop a treatment plan that accounts for the differences between acute pain, acute-on-chronic pain, chronic/persistent pain, and pain at end of life
• Describe the unique pain assessment and management needs of special populations
• Explain how to assess and manage pain across settings and transitions of care
• Describe the role, scope of practice, and contribution of the different professions within a pain management care team
• Implement an individualized pain management plan that integrates the perspectives of patients, their social support systems, and health care providers in the context of available resources
• Describe the role of the clinician as an advocate in assisting patients to meet treatment goals

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Physical Diagnosis 146 through Physical Diagnosis 159

• List the major divisions and subcomponents of the neurological examination. 
• List, contrast and compare the neurological signs associated with “release phenomenon” and “deficit phenomena”.
• Contrast and compare the effects of neurological lesions on the neurological examination of the central nervous system versus the peripheral nervous system.
• Recite the implications of neurological examination findings on disorders involving various components of the central and peripheral nervous system.
• Draw the anatomy of the lower motor neuron in its relation to the spinal cord, nerve root, spinal nerve, and the neuro-myal junction.
• Describe the physical positioning of the patient during aspects of the neurological examination.
• List the subjects to question when in taking a good patient history.
• Describe and perform aspects of the neurological examination of the Cranial Nerves of the patient.
• Draw the neurologic pathways associated with the eye light reflexes.  Include reference to cells of the retina, the optic nerve, the optic chiasm, the optic tract, the Pretectal nucleus, and the Edinger Westphal nucleus.
• Describe and perform aspects of the neurological examination of the Motor Systems of the patient.
• Describe and perform aspects of the neurological examination of the Sensory Systems of the patient.
• Recite findings related to neurological “drift” performed during the neurological examination.
• Describe and perform aspects of the neurological examination of the Reflex Systems of the patient.
• Illustrate components of the muscle stretch reflex including the role of the Alpha motor neuron, Gama motor neuron, and large sensory fibers in relation to the muscle fibers and spinal cord.
• Discuss the common shorthand used for grading muscle stretch reflex responses and discuss the results of the neurological examination associated with each grade.
• Perform and discuss three versions of the extensor plantar response (extensor toe sign, Babinski sign).
• Describe and perform aspects of the neurological examination of movement of the patient.

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Rehab 115 through Rehab 125

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Soft Tissue Injuries 105 to Soft Tissue Injuries 107 

• Describe the kinematics of acceleration/deceleration impact.
• Comprehend the history and development of acceleration/deceleration research.
• Defend injury manifestation using Whiplash guidelines and models.
• Apply current model theories to better understand injury from acceleration/deceleration impact.
• Explain to the patient the effects on the body during front, rear and side collisions.
• Educate the patient on variables such as vehicle size and direction and the effects on the human frame during acceleration/deceleration impact.
• Apply the variables of patient age, gender, size, etc during acceleration/deceleration impact.
• Express an understanding of incidence, prevalence, injury and risk factors associated with acceleration/deceleration impact.
• Describe the normal biomechanics of the cervical spine.
• Discuss cervical spinal anatomy vulnerable to injury.
• Define the nature of soft tissue structures; joints, ligaments, muscles, bursa, nerves, blood vessels and fascia.
• Inform your patients of the symptoms and changes to soft tissue structures after acceleration/deceleration impact.
• Explain the differences between scleratomal, dermatomal and myofascial pain.
• Discuss prognosis after acceleration/deceleration impact.
• Describe the normal biomechanics of the TMJ and associated soft tissue structures.
• Discuss injury to the TMJ and associated soft tissue structures.
• Explain the effects of trauma to the soft tissue of the spine, structures of the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, ankle and foot after acceleration/deceleration impact.
• Describe the normal biomechanics of the thoracic spine and rib cage.
• Describe the normal biomechanics of the lumbopelvic spine.
• Educate the patient on complicating factors for treatment after acceleration/deceleration impact.
• Determine the necessity and value of imaging and advanced diagnostic imaging after acceleration/deceleration impact.
• Perform complete examination of the soft tissue structures of the cervical spine, TMJ, thoracic spine, rib cage, lumbopelvic spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, ankle and foot after acceleration/deceleration impact.
• Utilize treatment protocols for soft tissue damage after acceleration/deceleration impact.
• Perform soft tissue treatments such as strain/counterstrain, postisometric relaxation, postfacilitation stretch, somatic technique, active and myofascial release, exercise and stretch, mobilization, manipulation and modalities.
• Utilize above mentioned soft tissue techniques to treat the cervical spine, TMJ, thoracic spine, rib cage, lumbopelvic spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, ankle and foot after acceleration/deceleration impact.
• Communicate to your patients the late effects of soft tissue injury after acceleration/deceleration impact.

• Explain the structural components of soft tissue.
• Relate impact forces to functional movements of soft tissue and the development of scar tissue and adhesions.
• Demonstrate diagnostic evaluation of soft tissue injury.
• Differentially diagnose types of soft tissue injury.
• Discuss the patterns of healing of soft tissue injuries.
• Describe the diagnostic tools in determining soft tissue injuries.
• Relate stress responses of soft tissues to development of structural and functional changes to injured tissues and their associated regions.
• Perform diagnostic tests and order imaging to best determine injury to soft tissue.
• Instruct the patient on correct application of ice and wet heat for soft tissue injury.
• Perform and explain proper stretching; passive, active and postfacilitation of soft tissues.
• Learn which therapy machines are best suited for your practice.
• Utilize infrared and electrical muscle stimulation in soft tissue injury.
• Apply appropriate contraindications of electric modalities to the individual patient’s care.
• Discern between the various EMS options for each soft tissue and injury (Interferentail current, galvanic, microcurrent, sine wave, Russian stimulation).
• Determine the most effective type of ultrasound for treatment of particular soft tissue injuries.
• Learn the benefits and applications of cold laser therapy.
• Understand the variety of massage therapy protocols and their applications.
• Discuss the benefits of each form of modality with your patient.
• Demonstrate and discuss exercise rehabilitation and muscle strengthening.
• Apply a combination of modalities for specific conditions of the upper and lower extremities and the spine.

• Utilize the World Health Organization (WHO) definition and classifications of headache complexes.
• Discern headache types using the International Headache Society definition and classifications of headache complexes.
• Integrate the Cleveland Clinic Headache classifications, descriptions, causes and treatment protocols.
• Compare efficacy in Cleveland Clinic treatment protocols of stress management, biofeedback, pharmaceuticals and prevention guidelines with manual medicine for outcome for your patients.
• Explain headache complexes in children and adults.
• Discuss Craniopathy and Cranial Osteopathy and its application in treating headaches.
• Apply the three approaches for Cranial Osteopathy; meningeal, reflex and sutural.
• Determine appropriate conditions indicated for use of Craniopathy and contraindications.
• Examine cranial bone anatomy.
• Integrate brain and spinal cord anatomy in relation to cranial bone anatomy and function.
• Relate spinal dural anatomy to dural torque in the cervical spine and cranium and its relationship to headaches.
• Collate signs and symptoms of traumatic brain injury into the evaluation of the cranium and headaches.  
• Relate the function of the cranial bones with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
• Utilize the structural and functional anatomy of the soft tissues of the TMJ for differential diagnosis of headaches and jaw dysfunction.
• Apply functional anatomy of the TMJ to functional anatomy of the cranial bones and cervical spine in relation to headaches.
• Demonstrate the evaluation of mandibular gait and disc condyle gait, normal and pathological.
• Define muscles of the jaw and cranium and their interrelationship regarding headaches and cranial faults.
• Relate the function of the cranial bones with the cervical spine.
• Utilize the structural and functional anatomy of the cervical spine for examination of soft tissues and pathology related to headaches.
• Determine which soft tissue structures when dysfunctional lead to headaches.
• Discern soft tissue pathology from examination for the differential diagnosis of causative factors headaches.
• Apply the functional anatomy of the TMJ and cervical spine to pathological conditions in these regions that can cause headaches.
• Explain the history and definitions of Craniopathy from 1596 - present.
• Explain the history and definition of Cranial Osteopathy and Craniosacral Therapy in Osteopathic Medicine.
• Determine pathology in the TMJ through thorough history using passive and active examination procedures and relate findings to headaches.
• Apply the VROM (vertical range of motion) scale to TMJ movement analysis.
• Treat the TMJ using a variety of methods.
• Perform Cranial Bone examination to find cranial faults using Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT) and relate findings to headaches.
• Apply Mind Language to cranial bone evaluation for SOT Category I and II.
• Perform Cranial Bone examination to find cranial faults using Applied Kinesiology (AK) and relate findings to headaches.
• Demonstrate effective muscle testing techniques when applying AK for cranial bone examination.
• Diagram the sequencing of Cranial Bone Examination using AK and its application during treatment.
• Differentially diagnose individual cranial faults and their relationship to one another during examination and treatment.
• Treat cranial bone faults using the methods discussed.
• Determine soft tissue and joint pathology in the cervical spine using active and passive examination procedures as well as functional testing to relate findings to headaches.
• Differentiate pain quality between the soft tissue structures (periosteum, joint, ligament, muscle, tendon, bursa, fascia, vascular and nerve).
• Utilize motion palpation as a tool to determine cervical spine joint fixation and dysfunction.
• Apply soft tissue palpation methods to evaluate the soft tissues of the cervical spine.
• Assess the cervical spine soft tissue structures using passive and active functional testing.
• Detect pathological conditions of the soft tissues of the TMJ as they relate to headaches.
• Relate the mechanics of Acceleration Deceleration Impact of the TMJ as a causative factor in injury and relationship to headaches.
• Assess pathological conditions of the soft tissue structures of the cervical spine (periosteum, joint, ligament, muscle, tendon, bursa, fascia, vascular and nerve) and relate the pertinent conditions to headaches.
• Detect bony defects, osseous and congenital that alter function in the cervical spine with the potential causative factor for headaches.
• Interpolate findings of scoliosis as a complicating factor in cervical spine dysfunction in relation to headaches.
• Relate the mechanics of Acceleration Deceleration Impact of the cervical spine as a causative factor in soft tissue injury and relationship to headaches.
• Apply treatment protocols for headaches using Craniopathy and Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) to address pathological conditions of the TMJ.
• Apply treatment protocols for headaches using soft tissue methods, modalities and manipulation for the pathological conditions of the TMJ.
• Apply treatment protocols for headaches using Craniopathy and SOT for the cranial bones and TMJ.
• Apply treatment protocols for headaches using Craniopathy and Applied Kinesiology (AK).
• Develop treatment sequencing practices and corrections for cranial faults in relationship to headaches.
• Integrate sinus congestion corrections into treatment protocols for cranial faults and headaches.
• Determine the effects of the rebound in the closed system of the cranium and apply the findings to cranial bone treatment.
• Apply treatment protocols for headaches using soft tissue methods, modalities and manipulation for the pathological conditions of the cervical spine.
• Determine pain radiation patterns of trigger points in the cervical spine in relation to head pain.
• Evaluate the most conducive manual methods to determine the most affective soft tissue treatments of the soft tissues of the cervical spine including Strain Counterstrain, postfacilitation stretch, somatic technique, postisometric relaxation, modalities, massage, manipulation and mobilization.
• Apply manual methods, modalities, mobilization and manipulation to pathological conditions cervical spine in relation to headaches.
• Apply treatment protocols to scoliosis in relation to cervical spine dysfunction and headaches.
• Relate treatment of the cervical spine after Acceleration Deceleration Impact to the treatment of headaches.
• Review a case study on the use of cranial fault correction, manipulation, manual methods and modalities in a patient with Cluster Headaches.
• Derive confidence in treating severe headache complexes using soft tissue treatments, Craniopathy, modalities and manual methods.

Hour 1:     Low Back and Leg Pain Following Whiplash Injury

• Point out the probable mechanisms for direct injury to the lower back during motor vehicle collisions.
• Distinguish between radiculopathy, neuropathy, and sclerogenic referral of extremity pain.

Hour 2:     Whiplash Injury and the Vertebral Artery

• Review the anatomy of the vertebral-basilar vascular systems.
• Distinguish between the anterior and posterior circulation.
• Summarize the signs and symptoms of a cervical spine vascular injury.
• Solidify the knowledge as to when the suspected vascular injury patient should be referred to diagnostic imaging or emergency services.

Hour 3:     Whiplash Injury and Traumatic Brain Injury

• Explain the differences between a blow brain injury and an inertial brain injury.
• Define the pathoanatomic and patho-biochemistry of traumatic brain injury.
• Justify clinical interventions that have a positive therapeutic influence on traumatic brain injury.

Hour 4:     Cervical Disc Herniation

• Point out the anatomical differences between lumbar and cervical discs.
• Explore the pathoanatomical and therapeutic differences between lumbar and cervical discs lesions.

Hour 5:     Examinations and Evaluations

• Explain the minimum examinations that should be performed.
• Explain the minimum requirements for charting the daily patient contact.

Hour 6:     Informed Consent

• Define the legal requirements for informed consent for chiropractic care.
• Review common entities for an informed consent and the rational for each.

Hour 7:     Reports

• Make recommendations for re-evaluations.
• Make recommendations for interim reports contents.
• Explore common academic terminology and concepts in effective report writing.

Hour 8:     Testimony

• Distinguish between a percipient witness and an expert witness.
• Explain what a subpoena is and what it means to the treating chiropractor.
• Explain what a deposition is for the treating chiropractor. Summarize the basic rules of a treating expert deposition.
• Summarize the mechanics of a personal injury trial from the perspective of the treating chiropractor.

Hour 1 

• Point out the probable mechanisms for direct injury to the lower back during motor vehicle collisions.
• Distinguish between radiculopathy, neuropathy, and sclerogenic referral of extremity pain.

Hour 2 

• Define the parameters for cervical and lumber spine central canal stenosis.
• Utilize both the Torg/Pavlov and the ratio radiographic methods for assessing cervical spine central canal stenosis.
• Explain the critical relationship between central canal stenosis and hyperextension spinal injuries.
• Demonstrate a practical method for the clinical assessment of cervical spine central canal stenosis.

Hour 3

• Identify differences seen between a blow brain injury and an inertial brain injury.
• Define the pathoanatomic and patho-biochemistry of injury.
• Explore the relationship between cervical spine injury and TBI

Hour 4

• Discuss the concept of how the systemic inflammatory profile affects local injury.
• List 8 systemic inflammatory factors that should be considered and co-managed on whiplash-injured patients.

Hour 5 

• Discuss the anatomy of the thoracic outlet.
• Demonstrate a management protocol for thoracic outlet syndrome.
• Define cervical angina.
• Demonstrate the single most important test to distinguish cervical angina

Hour 6

• Draw the anatomical basis for cervicogenic headache.
• Integrate cervicogenic headache and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
• Define inertial injury and the TMJ articulation.
• Demonstrate a practical assessment and management of TMJ injury.

Hour 7

• Distinguish between a percipient witness and an expert witness.
• Explain what a subpoena is and what it means to the treating chiropractor.
• Explain what a deposition is for the treating chiropractor. Summarize the basic rules of a treating expert deposition.
• Summarize the mechanics of a personal injury trial from the perspective of the treating chiropractor.

Hour 8 

• Demonstrate a typical soft tissue direct examination.
• Show the two most common drawings to support chiropractic care for soft tissue injuries.

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Xray 103 through Xray 118

• This contains all courses with the educational objectives listed from Xray 133 through Xray 144