NEWS, EVENTS, & EDUCATION

LINKED: Breathing and Postural Control, Part 2

OCTOBER 3-4, 2025 | INSTRUCTOR: Patricia (Trish) West-Low, PT, MA, DPT, PCS

COURSE DESCRIPTION

LINKED, Part 2 builds upon the foundational information presented in LINKED, Part 1. This course, developed by Mary Massery, proposes a new definition of “core stability,” redefining it as the dynamic control of trunk pressures to optimize postural stability (balance). Dr. Massery’s novel “soda pop can model” links breathing mechanics to postural control using multi-system interactions. In Part 2, the focus shifts to hands-on techniques: assessing “normal” breathing patterns and learning neuromotor breathing retraining techniques and manual assistive cough techniques. Multiple clinical cases will be used to cement the concepts, as will a live patient demonstration (if available). The course is applicable for any pediatric or adult patient (or therapist) who breathes!

PREREQUISITE

Completed either of the following courses in the past 24 months:

  • LINKED: Breathing and Postural Control, Part 1 (in-person or webinar)
  • Breathing, Talking, and Postural Control…School-Based Therapy

COURSE OBJECTIVES

At the conclusion of Part 2, participants should be able to:

  1. Use a multi-system approach to evaluating motor impairments.
  2. Identify the variations of “normal” breathing patterns and discuss the efficiencies/inefficiencies for individual patient conditions.
  3. Evaluate the need for and demonstrate appropriate neuromotor retraining techniques for patients with ineffective breathing/postural control strategies (health or participation deficits).
  4. Participate in a live patient demonstration (if a patient is available) and suggest possible evaluation and treatment ideas based on the course material.
  5. Design a targeted airway clearance program using the principles of mobilization, expectoration, and oral management.
  6. Demonstrate airway clearance techniques, with an emphasis on manual assistive cough techniques, and apply an airway clearance algorithm to specific patient conditions.
  7. Identify thoracic cage/spine restrictions as they pertain to breathing mechanics and postural control (a very brief introduction of chest wall restrictions). 
  8. Evaluate the need for and demonstrate neuromotor retraining techniques to improve breath support for voicing and postural control (eccentrics). 
  9. Suggest immediate ways to incorporate the concepts into therapy activities in your clinical setting.

SPEAKER BIOGRAPHY: Patricia (Trish) West-Low, PT, MA, DPT, PCS

Dr. West-Low holds a bachelor’s degree in PT from The University of Scranton, an Advanced Master’s Degree from New York University, a Doctoral Degree from Seton Hall University, and is a Board Certified Pediatric Clinical Specialist.  She has developed and teaches courses on the topics of Physical Therapy Examination and Treatment of Individuals with Autism, Connective Tissue Mobilization for Pediatric Therapists, and Yoga for Special Populations. 

Dr. West-Low has been a teaching assistant in all of Dr. Mary Massery’s courses for the past 20 years and completed a 2-year, invited teaching apprenticeship, becoming a Massery-certified faculty member in 2018.  She teaches across the country for Dr. Massery. Currently, Dr. West-Low is a full-time clinician at Children’s Specialized in New Jersey and a student in the Movement Sciences PhD program at Seton Hall University. Trish and her dog Lucy serve as a volunteer therapy dog team.

OTHER INFORMATION

  1. Required attire: Comfortable pants or shorts, like yoga pants or exercise shorts. Tops: We will be assessing ribs and breathing patterns, so ladies will need a tank top, sports bra, or a tee shirt tucked up and under the bra strap. Men will need to remove their shirts. Participants not wearing lab clothes are invited to come and observe in the labs.
  2. Long hair: Hair clips or ponytail bands are needed for long hair in labs.
  3. Anatomy books: Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite anatomy book to help visualize the presentations. 
  4. Suggested pre-readings for the course:  A variety of pre-readings are available on Mary Massery’s website under publications: www.MasseryPT.com/publications.
  5. Linens: Participants need one of each: bath towel, pillow, and possibly a beach towel or yoga mat if massage table or floor mats are not provided by the host.
  6. Videos for purchase: Educational videos augmenting the class material will be available for purchase at the course for a discounted rate. See Mary’s website for the content of the videos: http://www.masserypt.com/shop/. 
  7. Course location and parking: 10 River Park Plaza, St. Paul, MN – free parking on site. The course will be held in the lower level; watch for signs as you enter the building.
  8. Lunch: There is a restaurant on-site or nearby, or bring your own. Snacks will be provided at break times.

Mad to Glad Caregiver Workshop by Heidi Dummer, LICSW, OTR/L

See PDF for an upcoming Mad to Glad Caregiver Group starting in March.

https://www.dropbox.com/home?preview=Spring+2025+Mad+to+Glad+Flyer.pdf

Heidi is thrilled to offer psychotherapy services to Capernaum families in a familiar and convenient setting at Capernaum’s clinic.

Heidi enjoys working with kids, families, and adults who are motivated and want to make meaningful changes in their lives. Heidi has experience working with clients experiencing difficulty related to ADHD, Sensory Processing, Trauma, Depression, and Anxiety.  

With a clinical background in trauma, anxiety, depression, and neurodiversity, I am dedicated to supporting individuals and families through challenging times. My experience includes working with families of children with developmental delays, traumatic birth experiences, and ongoing complex medical conditions. I use a functional, skills-based, and trauma-informed approach, focusing on strength-based strategies to help individuals navigate critical moments with confidence.

If you or a family you know could benefit from Heidi’s services, please contact her directly. Heidi accepts private pay and is in network with Aetna and United Health Care/Optum, and soon with BCBS. For a full list of accepted insurances, please visit my website:

 https://www.inflectionptmn.com/

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Email: Heidi@inflectionptmn.com

Phone: (952) 222-8260

Heidi Dummer, LICSW, OTR/L

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