Course Description:
In the midst of a global pain crisis, many patients are referred to aquatic physical therapy to treat acute and chronic pain. Leading research pioneers in pain science stress the need to assess and change our patients’ cognitions, beliefs, and fears BEFORE launching into a movement-based approach to rehabilitation. The webinar provides an introduction to Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) and how to incorporate its concepts into aquatic therapy sessions, distinguish between “tissue issues” and “pain issues,” and how to engage patients in sharing their pain experience. In addition, participants will learn about current research and discover opportunities for more in-depth PNE training and education.

Course Objectives & Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, the learner will be able to:

• Describe key questions every patient in pain wants to know;
• Identify “red flags” and “yellow flags” seen in patients with back pain;
• Discuss areas of the brain involved in the pain neuro signature and their role in a person’s pain response;
• Differentiate “tissue issue” from “pain issue”;
• Discuss phrases that invite patients to share their pain experiences;
• Identify primary treatment strategies (“pillars”) providers can use to calm a patient’s nervous system;
• Describe strategies that promote patients’ understanding of the biological nature of their problem;
• Discuss the unique advantages of the thermodynamic properties of water and the physiological effects of immersion on treatment effectiveness for patients in pain; and
• Demonstrate how to incorporate PNE strategies into aquatic physical therapy sessions.