2024 ROCKY MOUNTAIN ANNUAL CONFERENCE & PT EXPO

Review the elements of hernia anatomy, hernia risk factors, differential diagnoses, and surgical interventions as it pertains to post-operative care. Identify key differences between robotic, laparoscopic, and open procedures in rehabilitation. Discuss the current state of research for post-operative care following hernia surgery. Introduce novel pre-surgical screening to evaluate functional and regional deficits that may impact recovery and return to sport. Discuss goals and plans for progressive post-operative hernia care and provide an overview of rehabilitative benefits following hernia surgery. Provide detail of criteria-based care to address post-operative hernia care through return to sport, which is currently underreported in the literature.

This presentation will provide attendees key elements of working with dancers or other performing artists, including dance medicine-specific evaluation and assessment processes. We will also discuss common injuries and healthcare concerns, as well as cultural contexts. With prevailing perceptions that healthcare providers don't understand dancers or offer unhelpful advice, the aim of this session is to provide information to attendees to start helping change that narrative. The presentation will be delivered in a lecture format.

This presentation will make treating musicians more accessible to clinicians by bringing professional musicians as presenters alongside an experienced PT. Together, presenters will demonstrate their craft, discuss personal experiences with PRMDs and MPA and successful solutions they’ve encountered regarding resources, education, and treatment. Participants will have unique opportunities to collaborate on live case studies of the presenters, participate in movement analysis of live performances, and design interventions specific to the physical and mental demands of musicians. By collaborating with musicians in this novel way, attendees will gain both knowledge and practical experience of the unique complexities of treating musicians. PTs will leave feeling better equipped to provide resources and evidence-based care for this niche population.

PTs who work with skiers should understand downhill skiing terminology, common mechanisms of injury, and return to sport considerations to treat patients or clients who would like to return to downhill skiing. This session will cover these topics using the most current high quality evidence, gathered by the authors for writing the Independent Study Course "Physical Therapist Management of the Winter Athlete: Orthopedic Management of the Downhill Skier." We will finally present an evidence based, progressive strength and conditioning program for recreational skiers looking to prevent injuries.