New anatomy course for therapists

Practicing therapists, doctors, physiotherapists and other accredited health workers seeking more expertise in human anatomy will benefit from a new professional development program at The University of Queensland.

Access to human anatomical teaching specimens and tutelage from anatomy experts are highlights of the program. Another advantage is the investigation into the role of fascia trains, which is a significant new development in the field.

Dr Shannon Armstrong, Manager of Corporate and Academic Services at the School of Biomedical Sciences, said the program gave registered health practitioners a valuable development opportunity to improve their knowledge, and staff were extremely enthusiastic about the new program.

"The Therapist's Body is the first of our accredited courses which will provide a valuable experience for professionals in the health and allied-health industries, including graduates and established practitioners," she said.

The course will review clinically relevant anatomical structures to provide students with techniques to confidently and accurately locate and identify muscular and skeletal elements.

The role of trigger-point therapy will be taught, as well as the functional anatomy of the musculoskeletal system.

The School's Principal Scientific Officer, Matthew Wissemann, said the module's practical aspects made it particularly valuable.

"Examination of real anatomical specimens is the most effective way to appreciate the three-dimensional structure of the human body, and the surprising variations between individuals," Mr Wissemann said.

"Using real human material to enhance understanding of the human body is an opportunity for which professional practitioners are incredibly grateful, and one that UQ is privileged to be able to provide."

The course is an accredited Australian Association of Massage Therapists professional development module, providing 10 points.

The first workshop will be on Wednesday June 22 from 6.30-9.30 pm. For enrolment: www.uq.edu.au/sbms/anatomical-skills-workshops.

Media: UQ School of Biomedical Sciences, Dr Shannon Armstrong 07 3365 2384, 0401 293 248, s.armstrong@uq.edu.au or Avril Johnston-Craig 07 3365 1536, 0408 160 784, a.johnstoncraig@uq.edu.au