If you have never taken a spinal manual therapy course from Laurie Edge-Hughes, then you are missing out on all that manual therapy can offer. Through lecture and lab, Laurie will lead participants through a detailed evaluation of the canine spine from a mechanical perspective. Focus will include manual therapy concepts and evidence-based rationale for treatment selection. An integrated model for dealing with spinal mechanics will be covered, including force closure, form closure, and motor control and timing for the neck, back, pelvis and ribs. Participants will gain a greater depth of understanding of spinal mechanics, a better appreciation for the detection of spinal dysfunctions, and the ability to manually treat (via mobilization techniques) the spinal system. Instruction will also be given regarding testing of the musculoskeletal control of the spinal and prescription of therapeutic exercises targeted specifically at fine motor control and core stability and additional concepts regarding pain control and resolution of maladaptive postures and behaviors in this client population.

Outline

Day 1

Mobilization and traction background principles and evidence to support these treatment techniques
Lecture on Cervical Spine (anatomy & biomechanics)
Lab on Cervical Spine (manual palpation, assessment, mobilization techniques, & stabilization exercises)
Lab on the Temporomandibular Joint (palpation and mobilizations)
Lecture on Thoracic Spine and Ribs (anatomy & biomechanics)
Lab on Thoracic Spine & Ribs (manual palpation, assessment, mobilization techniques, & stabilization exercises)

Day 2

Question & Answer session pertaining to day 1
Lab on Thoracic spine & Ribs continued
Lecture on Lumbar Spine (anatomy & biomechanics)
Lab on Lumbar Spine (manual palpation, assessment, mobilization techniques, & stabilization exercises)
Lecture on Pelvis & Sacroiliac Joints (anatomy & biomechanics)
Lab on Pelvis & Sacroiliac Joints (manual palpation, assessment, mobilization techniques, & stabilization exercises)

Laurie Edge-Hughes

BScPT, MAnimSt (Animal Physio), CAFCI, CCRT, CSm Anim Acup / Needling
Co-Owner, The Canine Fitness Centre, Ltd., Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Laurie Edge-Hughes obtained her Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Alberta in 1993 and has since focused her post-graduate training on orthopedics, osteopathy, acupuncture, and animal rehabilitation. Additionally, she completed her Master of Animal Studies in Animal Physiotherapy through the University of Queensland (Australia)in 2006. Laurie taught the first canine physiotherapy/physical therapy courses in Canada (1999), the USA(1999), and Australia (2001). She has been involved in the Animal Rehab Division since its inception in 1994 and teaches canine physiotherapy and rehabilitation courses for the Animal Rehab Division (ARD) of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association (CPA). Additionally, she holds the position of Advocacy Lead for the ARD and is chair of the Registry of Allied Animal Health Practitioners of Canada. www.FourLeg.com, an online educational platform for continuing education in canine rehabilitation / physiotherapy. Laurie co-owns and practices out of the Canine Fitness Centre Ltd (www.caninefitness.com) in Calgary, Alberta.

Sessions:: Tues. Apr. 28th, 8:30am - 6:30pm - Wed. Apr. 29th, 8:30am - 6:30pm
Credits:: 16.0 RACE approval pending; 16.0 NYSED-approved
Course Rating:: Basic: CCRP, CCRT, CCAT
Intermediate: DVM/VMD, PT, VT, CCRA, CCRVN
Policies:: To request a refund, please complete and postmark this Workshop Cancellation Form by March 28, 2026. Refunds exclude a $25 processing fee.