Specific Soft Tissue Mobilisation (SSTM) of the Upper Limb

MR D GLENN HUNTER MSc MCSP SRP CertEd

One day workshop

This course explores the use of specific soft tissue mobilisation (SSTM) for the management of upper limb dysfunction. Ideally course participants will have completed the SSTM for the lower limb course but this is not essential.

The course is approximately 70% practical and 30% theoretical. The theoretical components of the course will be a brief review of the rationale underpinning SSTM and covers the following areas:

• Models of clinical reasoning relating to SSTM
• The theoretical basis for SSTM – to include:
  Soft tissue biomechanics
  Soft tissue healing
  Pain mechanisms
• Exploration of the evidence relating to the effectiveness of SSTM
• The effects of stretching on muscle tendon units.
• The principles and practice of SSTM techniques

The practical components of the course will illustrate the use of SSTM by focusing on the following ‘common upper limb soft tissue dysfunction’s:

• SSTM in relation to dysfunction of the rotator cuff
• SSTM in relation to the upper quadrant to include SSTM application to the major shoulder girdle muscle, scalene muscle and posterior cervical spine soft tissues.
• SSTM in relation to dysfunction of the soft tissues around the elbow.
• SSTM in relation to dysfunction of the soft tissue around the wrist and hand.

The course will place a strong emphasis on exploring the issue of evidence in relation to the concepts and practical concepts that are covered. Comprehensive course notes will be supplied