The Upper Cervical Solution: Confident Assessment and Treatment of the Upper Cervical Spine for PTs
Featuring Stephen Vitale, PT, DPT, FAAOMPT, KEOMPT
Multiple Dates and Locations
Managing and treating the upper cervical spine presents unique challenges for clinicians. With the rise of sedentary lifestyles and prolonged computer use, dysfunction in this region has become increasingly common—and addressing it effectively is essential. Yet, most Physical Therapists receive limited training in this specialized area during their formal education, leaving many feeling uncertain when faced with these complex cases. This course is designed to bridge that gap. You’ll gain the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to confidently assess and treat pain and mobility deficits specific to the upper cervical spine. Through evidence-based strategies and practical application, you’ll enhance your clinical reasoning, improve patient outcomes, and elevate your expertise in managing one of the most intricate regions of the spine.
Who should attend? Licensed Physical Therapist who treat the cervical spine. New Graduate Physical Therapy Students.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Upon successful completion of this course, the practitioner will:
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Participants will understand the anatomy and biomechanics of the upper cervical spine
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Participants will be able to perform assessment of likely pain generators through regionalization of pain assessment
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Participants will be able to assess joint play and treat mobility restrictions of upper cervical spine
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Participants will be able to understand and implement cervical mobilizations into treatment programs with current patients.
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Participants will integrate new understanding of upper cervical management into case discussion.
CEU INFORMATION
New York Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants: Professional Seminars is recognized as an approved provider of Physical Therapist and Physical Therapist Assistant continuing education by the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Physical Therapy. Full attendance at this Seminar qualifies for 4.0 contact hours in NY.
SCHEDULE
4:00pm - 4:10pm: Introduction to lecturers and facilities.
4:10pm - 4:30pm: Upper cervical anatomy review
4:30pm - 5:00pm: Cervical regionalization assessment, demo and practice
5:00pm - 5:30pm: Upper cervical ROM and joint play assessment (OA, AA, C2) in seated, demo and practice
5:30pm - 6:15pm: Seated OA, AA, C2 mobilization, demo and Practice
6:15pm - 6:45pm: Quick test (Cervical side bend PAIVMS) in supine, demo and practice
6:45pm - 7:15pm: Cervical C2 upglide with mechanical locking at C2, manual locking at C2-C6.
7:15pm - 7:45pm: Case discussion
7:45pm - 8:00pm: Course evaluations and Wrap up
Disclaimer
Any opinions, findings, recommendations, or conclusions expressed by the speaker(s) do not necessarily reflect the views of Professional Seminars. Professional Seminars reserves the right to substitute a qualified instructor due to unforeseen circumstances. Registrants will not receive a certificate until payment has been received and the course has been successfully completed. If payment is not received ten (10) days prior to the seminar, the course certificate may not be present at the seminar. If a payment is refunded for insufficient funds, a processing fee wil be charged as allowed by law.
INSTRUCTOR BIO
Stephen Vitale, PT, DPT, FAAOMPT, KEOMPT
Regional Clinical Excellence Director – New England | Clinical Director
Stephen Vitale is a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Boston University with extensive post-doctoral training in orthopedic manual therapy. Since 2016, he has earned advanced certifications including FAAOMPT and KEOMPT. His clinical expertise focuses on spine treatment, Orthopedics, TMJ therapy, ergonomics, and functional training, with a strong emphasis on patient communication and evidence-based care.
As Regional Clinical Excellence Director for New England at Professional Physical Therapy, Stephen leads mentoring and continuing education programs, teaches DPT students at Northeastern University, and mentors fellowship candidates. His passion for education and clinical excellence drives his commitment to advancing the profession and improving patient outcomes.
Stephen’s interest in physical therapy began through his own athletic experiences in track and field and wrestling, where he developed a deep appreciation for the body’s ability to heal. Today, he continues to combine his love for teaching, clinical practice, and innovation to inspire both patients and clinicians alike.
CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY
Cancellations received at least five (5) business days before the event are refundable, less a $50.00 administrative charge per registrant. There will be no refund for cancellations received later. Please note: If you register and do not attend, you are still responsible for full payment. The expense of continuing education, when taken to maintain and improve professional skills, may be tax deductible. Please contact your accountant for complete details. For courses cancelled by Professional Seminars Ltd. participants have the option to attend a rescheduled date or receive a full refund of the registration cost.
CONTACT INFO
Email: info@professionalseminars.com Phone: (516) 321-2450 Fax: (516) 321-2450
REGISTRATION INFO
FREE General Admission Registration
Registration Includes: Course handouts and Continental Breakfast.
