Trigger PointsWith Jon Hobbs

Description This course is designed for practicing chartered physiotherapists who wish to expand their theoretical knowledge and practical application of trigger point acupuncture in the treatment of myofascial pain. Participants should be MCSP and HPC registered and have already successfully undertaken a recognised acupuncture foundation course. Aims To develop participant’s theoretical knowledge of trigger point acupuncture and its role in the treatment of myofascial pain. To develop participant’s practical skills in both assessment and treatment of trigger points in the treatment of myofascial pain. Training Objectives Knowledge

To introduce the participant to: The concept of the motor unit and its function. The concept of dysfunctional muscle tissue. The neurophysiology of local and referred myofascial pain.

Skills To be able to:

Effectively palpate and identify myofascial trigger points. Safely and effectively employ a variety of needling techniques in the treatment of

myofascial trigger points. Integrate trigger point acupuncture into the complete management of myofascial

trigger points including the development of an appropriate exercise and stretching programme.

Identify any predisposing factors such as muscle imbalance or altered biomechanics which may generate or maintain myofascial trigger points.

Understanding To understand:

The mechanisms underlying the development and deactivation of myofascial trigger points.

The health and safety issues related to trigger point acupuncture. The use of trigger point acupuncture and its integration within a variety of therapy approaches.

These objectives will be achieved through a variety of teaching strategies including lectures, tutorials, seminars, action groups, problem-based learning scenarios, clinical reasoning-based case studies and practical needling situations. Learning will also be supported by the course study manual and the use of research-based teaching materials and methods.

Students will be provided with the following resources for their use on the course: Course manual and handouts A selection of acupuncture needles

8 hours CPD