Mechanisms of Manual Therapy: Bridging Evidence, Efficacy, and Clinical Impact
Description
This session will explore the biophysiological, neurophysiological, and psychosocial mechanisms underlying manual therapy and its effectiveness in managing musculoskeletal pain. With a focus on the evolving evidence base and the role of mechanistic research, attendees will gain insight into how manual therapy interventions can be optimized for improved patient outcomes. The session will also discuss the challenges of inconsistent reporting of manual therapy interventions clinically and in trials, highlighting the need for better understanding of manual therapy interventions in clinical practice.
Objectives:
1. Identify the biophysiological, neurophysiological, and psychosocial mechanisms that contribute to the effectiveness of manual therapy interventions.
2. Summarize the current evidence supporting manual therapy techniques, focusing on areas of strong evidence and research gaps including reporting of manual therapy techniques.
3. Describe how mechanistic research can be applied in clinical practice to enhance the effectiveness of manual therapy interventions.
About The Speaker(s)
Dr. McDevitt is an Associate Professor in the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department at the University of Colorado, USA. She teaches orthopaedics to entry-level physical therapy students. Clinically, she practices at the University of Colorado Health, CU Sports Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation. She is a board-certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist and a Fellow in the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists. She completed her PhD in Physiotherapy through the University of Newcastle, Australia. She has a track record for publications in manual therapy, regional interdependence, shoulder tendinopathy and clinical reasoning.
