Developing Palpation
CPD Course for Professional Equine Therapists
Good palpation skills require a sound knowledge of anatomy, the ability to visualise what is under the skin and an understanding of how and what to feel.
Only once we can appreciate the norm, is it possible to detect subtle changes and abnormalities in the horse. Detecting changes early is key to preventing further problems. Accurate palpation enables us to deliver the best therapy techniques in each situation.
On this course we evaluate the muscle, fascia, bones, tendons, attachment points and membranes that you can actually feel on the horse and with the help of bones, skeletons, anatomy models, anatomical paintings, dissection photos and videos enable you to clearly visualise what is happening under the skin.
You will also learn how to improve your sensory and intuitive palpation capability.
This course is ideal for qualified therapists from all disciplines wishing to revise anatomy, improve palpation skills and develop palpation techniques.
This course is a mix of theory, practical demonstrations and small group hands-on practical sessions. It also provides the opportunity to network, share information and discuss interesting or challenging cases with other practitioners in a relaxed and supportive environment.
During this course, Gillian will examine the importance of anatomy, bones, joints, muscle, myofascial chains, fascial connections, compensation patterns and demonstrate methods for palpating structures.
Developing and refining palpation awareness
Improving anatomical palpation of bony landmarks
Improving anatomical palpation of muscular structures
Developing intuitive palpation skills
Palpation and Testing Fascia
Dynamic Palpation Techniques
This course is supported by a wealth of photographs and video footage from dissections and photoshoots.
Also during the course you will have access to Gillian's large collection of bones and anatomical models. This ensures that you will be better able to visualise the anatomical structures palpated.
And with so many bones and anatomy models to hand Gillian has examples of almost all structures, problems and abnormalities!
If you would like to read another therapists review of the day check out this blog article:
Provisional Timetable
Day 1
0830: Registration and Coffee
0900: Welcome, Introduction and Theory
0930: The Importance of Anatomy in Therapy
Classroom Session
1100: Break
1130: Developing Intuitive Palpation Skills
Practical Session
1300: Lunch
1400: Skeletal Anatomy Palpation - Spine
Practical Session
1500: Break
1530: Skeletal Anatomy Palpation - Limbs
Practical Session
1630: Discussion
1700: Close
Day 2
0845: Coffee
0900: Muscular Anatomy of the Spine
Classroom session
0930: Muscular Anatomy Palpation - Neck
and forelimbs - Practical Session
1100: Break
1130: Muscular Anatomy Palpation - Back
Practical Session
1300: Lunch
1400: Muscular Anatomy Palpation - Hindend
Practical Session
1500: Break
1530: Recognising Pain and tension
Practical Session
1630: Discussion
1700: Close
Prerequisites
This course is designed for professional equine therapists as it requires a knowledge of soft tissue anatomy. However therapy students will be considered on a case by case basis so please email to enquire if you would like to attend.
All participants must provide proof of professional equine therapy qualification and current professional indemnity insurance.
Revision of muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments and joints is useful for this course.
Recommended Reading:
Anatomy and Myofascial Chapters of Posture and Performance
Notes
Certificates of Participation will be issued for 16 hours.
Course notes will be provided.
Tea, coffee, home-made cakes and a light lunch of sandwiches, crisps and fruit is included.
This course is held both inside and out so please bring appropriate warm clothes for a day out on the yard.
This course is limited to 14 people to ensure small groups and individual attention.
Course Price
Prices include VAT
Course Leader
GILLIAN HIGGINS
Gillian is an equine anatomist, biomechanist, BHS Senior Coach, professional Sports and Remedial Therapist and author with a first class honours degree in Equine Science and Business Management.
Gillian is passionate about anatomy. She believes knowledge of what you are working with and being able to accurately feel and palpate anatomical structures in the horse helps make a great therapist.
Gillian has studied a variety of equine and human modalities both traditional and holistic.
As well as conventional training, Gillian has studied Equine Therapies in America, France, Germany and Sweden and is committed to giving our equine partners the best possible levels of care and consideration.
Gillian works with horses from all disciplines and levels from leisure to Olympic and they all benefit from her honed anatomical palpation skills.