The Pediatric Manual Therapy Series
TM
A comprehensive evidence-based curriculum for the pediatric rehabilitation professional
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Course 1: Pediatric Upper Extremity Joint Mobilization
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Course 2: Pediatric Lower Extremity Joint Mobilization
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Course 3: Manual Therapy for the Pediatric Spine (2027)
Course 1
Pediatric Upper Extremity Joint Mobilization
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This advanced continuing education course equips physical and occupational
therapists with the knowledge and clinical reasoning needed to safely integrate joint mobilization into pediatric upper extremity rehabilitation. Built around the Pediatric Upper Extremity Manual Therapy (PUMT) Tool, participants learn to determine when manual therapy is appropriate, identify pediatric-specific precautions and contraindications, and immediately translate improved joint mobility into meaningful functional performance. The course emphasizes a multimodal approach in which joint mobilization serves as a catalyst for active movement, motor learning, and participation rather than a stand-alone intervention.
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Through evidence-based lectures, hands-on laboratory sessions, and pediatric case studies involving the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand, participants develop practical skills for treating children with neuromusculoskeletal conditions. Special emphasis is placed on Pediatric Joint Facilitation (PJF), pain-informed clinical reasoning, and integrating manual therapy with therapeutic exercise, play, and occupation-based activities.
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Recommended for: pediatric physical therapists and occupational therapists who evaluate and treat upper extremity function
Evidence-Based Pediatric Manual Therapy for Functional Upper Extremity Performance
Course 2
Pediatric Lower Extremity Joint Mobilization
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Designed specifically for pediatric rehabilitation professionals, this course
provides an evidence-informed framework for incorporating joint mobilization
into the treatment of lower extremity dysfunction. Using the Pediatric Upper
Extremity Manual Therapy (PUMT) Tool, participants learn to determine when manual therapy is appropriate, identify movement impairments contributing to functional limitations, and integrate mobilization into comprehensive treatment plans focused on walking, running, balance, transitions, and participation.
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The course combines current evidence, pediatric-specific clinical reasoning, extensive laboratory practice, and case-based learning covering the hip, knee, ankle, and foot. It also includes an introduction to Pediatric Joint Facilitation (PJF) as an alternative for patients who may not tolerate traditional mobilization techniques.
Participants will learn to safely modify manual therapy techniques for the developing musculoskeletal system while emphasizing motor control, strength, and functional carryover immediately following treatment.
Whether working in outpatient rehabilitation, schools, hospitals, or early intervention, clinicians will leave with practical strategies to improve lower extremity function in children across a variety of diagnoses.
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Recommended for: pediatric physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. Occupational therapists with a focus on mobility and positioning will also benefit
Evidence-Based Manual Therapy to Improve Mobility, Gait, and Participation
Course 3
Manual Therapy for the Pediatric Spine (coming Spring 2027)
Coming in 2027, this advanced course expands the PUMT framework to the pediatric spine and integrates current IFOMPT principles with pediatric-specific examination and intervention strategies. Participants will learn a structured, evidence-informed approach to evaluating children with neck and back pain, impaired posture, headaches, and movement dysfunction while recognizing situations in which manual therapy is appropriate—and when referral or alternative interventions are indicated.
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Topics include pediatric cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacroiliac, and rib dysfunction; red flag screening; pain mechanisms; clinical decision-making; and safe application of spinal manual therapy techniques within the developing musculoskeletal system. The course emphasizes multimodal management, incorporating Pediatric Joint Facilitation (PJF), therapeutic exercise, motor control, pain science, and functional movement into every treatment plan.
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Extensive laboratory experiences and pediatric case discussions provide opportunities to apply clinical reasoning to common pediatric presentations while maintaining the highest standards of safety and evidence-based practice.
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Recommended for: pediatric physical therapists and other rehabilitation professionals who wish to expand their knowledge of pediatric spinal assessment and treatment
Evidence-Based Manual Therapy for the Pediatric Spine