Summary:
This introductory course has revolutionized the way therapists treat patients by assessing the body’s core, from vocal cords to the pelvic floor. Participants will leave this course learning quick interventions to improve functional outcomes in patients.

Course Description:
This course, developed by Dr. 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 Linked 1, foundational information and quick interventions will be the focus(positioning and ventilatory strategies). The course is applicable for any pediatric or adult patient(or therapist) who breathes!

LINKED Part-2 builds upon the foundational information presented in “LINKED Part-1.” In Part-2, the focus shifts to assessing “normal” breathing patterns, and learning neuromotor breathing retraining techniques and manual assistive cough techniques during hands-on labs. Multiple clinical cases will be used to cement the concepts, as will a live patient demonstration (if available).

Objectives:
At the conclusion of Linked 1 (Day-1), participants should be able to:

• Describe how trunk pressures link breathing and postural control using the Soda Pop Can Model.
• Describe the multiple, simultaneous roles of the diaphragm as related to breathing, postural control, gastroesophageal reflux, constipation, and venous return.
• Demonstrate the role of the vocal folds in normal postural stability responses (balance) and make the case for using speaking valves for patients with tracheostomies.
• Position patients for optimal physiological and biomechanical support of breathing with simple equipment (towels, pillows, etc.).
• Use a ventilatory strategy algorithm presented in class to optimally match breathing with movements from bed mobility to athletic endeavors.
• Apply concepts to a wide variety of patient populations from infancy to geriatrics.

At the conclusion of Linked 2 (Days 2- 3), participants should be able to:

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

Target Audience:
This course will be of interest to Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists and Speech Language Pathologists.

Educational level: Intermediate

Instructor: Trish West-Low, PT, MA, DPT, PCS

About the Instructor: 
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.

Registration Fee: Group/Early Bird- $625 before December 25, 2025.
After January 1, 2026, course fee is $675

Course Credits:
Continuing education credits for ST/OT/ PT will be offered. This course is a total of 2.1 CEUs. CEUs are not currently issued through AOTA or ASHA. 

Activity Completion Requirements:
All participants will receive a course completion certificate upon successful completion of the conference. No certificates will be awarded until course completion is verified on the final date of the conference.