Course Description:
Due to the properties of water, the aquatic environment provides unique benefits that are not always possible with land-based exercises. The positive effects of water directly affect the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, and other systems, making it an ideal environment for movement, regardless of pain. Research suggests that pain neuroscience education (PNE) can improve outcomes for individuals with pain. However, it is most effective when combined with movement.

Aquatic therapy combined with PNE is often the perfect environment for an individual with pain. Joint pain and aquatic therapy experts to learn when, why, and how practitioners should consider using PNE with aquatic therapy for the treatment of patients experiencing pain.

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

• Describe pain neuroscience education, its benefits, and its indications;
• Recognize patients who would benefit from pain neuroscience education and aquatic physical therapy;
• Identify the unique benefits of aquatic immersion and activities for the pain patient; and
• Develop effective aquatic-based treatment programs for patients with pain.

Instructors:

Cathy Maloney-Hills, PT, DPT
Cathy Maloney-Hills has a BA from Purdue University, a Post-graduate Physical Therapy Certificate from the University of Iowa, and a DPT from The College of St. Scholastica. With over 35 years of aquatic experience, Cathy is the Lead Aquatic Therapist for Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute/Allina Health, Minneapolis; has developed community, fitness, and therapy programs; presented national and international courses and training for physical therapists, students, and fitness professionals; is co-investigator/author of the Golden Waves® Functional Water Program for Older Adults, and co-author of YMCA Water Fitness for Health, various chapters, webinars, and articles. Cathy completed the Kaiser Vallejo PNF 6-month training program, the Folsom Physical Therapy Year-Long Orthopedic Manual Therapy Course, is a Therapeutic Pain Specialist, a Certified Pool Operator, and is thrilled to continue learning as an Instructor for the APTA Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy Certificate of Clinical Competency (CCC) program.

Kory J. Zimney, PT, DPT, PhD
Kory Zimney is an Associate Professor at the University of South Dakota in the School of Health Sciences Physical Therapy Department. He received his Master of Physical Therapy from the University of North Dakota in 1994, and completed his post-professional Doctor of Physical Therapy from Des Moines University in 2010. His PhD in physical therapy was completed at Nova Southeastern University in 2020. Dr. Zimney is part of the Brain and Behavioral Research Center at the University of South Dakota and the Therapeutic Neuroscience Research Group, conducting research specifically in the areas of pain neuroscience education and therapeutic alliance. He also provides teaching instruction as a Senior Faculty member with Evidence in Motion.

Note: CEU is not applicable in AK, CO, HI, LA, NJ, NM, NV
Note: CEU is not pre-approved in the following states, but licensees may seek their own approval in AR, CA, DE, OH, TX
All other states: .18 CEU/1.75 CCU or contact hours