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Based on the concepts of Applied Functional Science® (Gray Institute, USA) this evidence based course explores the biomechanics of the spine.

In this practical course human spinal biomechanics will be explored in common function and in some sports activities. The integrated nature of the body mechanics and its physiological components will inform an osteopathic approach to the evaluation and treatment of different conditions.

Starting with a review of relevant literature in the fields of fascial sciences and neurobiomechanics, the course will focus on the practical applications of this theoretical framework in everyday practice.
The biomechanical understanding of human movement is based on the concepts of Applied Functional Science® (Gray Institute, USA). 

Learning objectives

Review of relevant spinal anatomy and osteokinematics

Understand the neurophysiological principles of myofascial biomechanics and their application in clinical practice

Understand the biomechanics of gait from a pelvis-to-shoulder girdles perspective

Learn how to evaluate biomechanical patterns of function using functional testing

Learn how to create specific functional contexts for the treatment of a range of dysfunctions

Explore the functional physiology of non-pathological scoliotic curve in the adult and its biomechanical clinical correlations

Learn how to assess non-pathological spinal curves from an applied biomechanical perspective and how to design appropriate exercises for its management

Timetable 

Day 1                      

09:00 - 09:30        Registration           

09:30 - 10:00        Introduction to applied biomechanics - Lecture

10:00 - 11:00        Osteokinematics- Lecture and practical session

11:00 - 11:15        Break

11:15 - 12:00        Osteokinematics of the lumbar spine- Lecture

12:00 - 12:30        Myofascial mechanics and functional loading- Lecture

12:30 - 13:30        Lunch break

13:30 - 14:00        Lumbar spine loading examples- Practice

14:00 - 15:00        Assessment strategies for the Lumbar spine - Lecture and practical session

15:00 - 15:30        Short break

15:30 - 17:30        Assessment techniques for the Lumbar spine- Practice

17:30                      End of day 1

Day 2                      

09:30 - 10:30         Treatment techniques for the Lumbar spine - Practical session

10:30 - 10:45         Short break

10:45 - 11:15         Osteokinematics of the thoracic spine- Lecture

11:15 - 12:00         Assessment and treatment strategies for the Thoracic spine  - Lecture and practical session

12:00 - 12:30         Assessment of non-pathological scoliotic curve in the adult    - Lecture

12:30 - 13:30         Lunch break

13:30 - 14:30         Case-study based session: functional management of scoliotic spinal curves - Group session/                                        tutorial

14:30 - 15:00         Osteokinematics of the cervical spine- Lecture

15:00 - 15:15         Short break

15:15 - 16:30         Assessment and treatment strategies for the Cervical spine- Lecture and practical session

16:30 - 17:30         Q&A and open discussion  - Group session

17:30                       End of day 2

Francesco Contiero is a physiotherapist and osteopath based in London. Francesco started his career in Italy as a physiotherapist. He has completed a diploma and a postgraduate master's degree in osteopathy. In addition, he has completed an intensive training program in functional biomechanics developed through the Gray Institute and has earned the distinction of Fellow of Applied Functional Science (FAFS).

Francesco is the neuroscience and clinical neurology lecturer at the University College of Osteopathy. His academic areas of expertise are neurosciences, sports biomechanics and fascial sciences.

"Francesco Contiero has both a great command of the subject and is able to communicate it clearly and with enthusiasm. Excellent."

Course suitability

The course is suitable for osteopaths, physiotherapists, chiropractors and third and fourth year students.