Course eligible for Membership Plus

Course Description This is an introductory course in manipulation of the abdominal viscera. It is designed for those with experience in manual medicine but who are not experienced with an visceral approaches; and for those who are experienced with visceral manipulation but who are not familiar with traditional osteopathic “ventral technique,” particularly as described by Carl P. McConnell, DO. Emphasis is placed on physical examination, layer palpation, principles of treatment, and specific localization and engagement of tissues to guide therapeutic effect. Anatomic and fascial arrangements of the abdominal and pelvic viscera are basis of the course organization. This course does not involve demonstration of any internal techniques, though such techniques may be discussed.

Objectives:
By the conclusion of the course, participants shall:
1. Understand the need for, and be able to perform, a thorough physical examination of the abdomen.
2. Build confidence in layer palpation of the abdomen.
3. Understand the relationships and fascial continuity of the abdominal viscera as they influence total body mechanics.
4. Understand the principles of early osteopathic ventral technique and perform them safely and effectively on patients.

Prerequisites: It is strongly encouraged, though not required, that participants have taken a course in abdominal visceral approaches.

Meal Information Morning coffee/tea provided each day. Lunch provided Friday and Saturday.

Course Dates & Times

• November 10, 2023, 8 am-6 pm
• November 11, 2023, 8 am-6 pm
• November 12, 2023, 8 am-12 pm

Continuing Medical Education: 20 credits of AOA Category 1-A CME anticipated

Course Location

Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dublin 6775 Bobcat Way, Dublin, Ohio 43016

Course Director

Richard G. Schuster, DO is in solo private practice in Indianapolis, doing direct primary care and osteopathic manual medicine. Dr. Schuster graduated from the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1994 after completing an undergraduate fellowship in osteopathic principles and practice. He completed a family medicine residency at the Firelands Regional Medical Center in Sandusky, Ohio, and a postdoctoral fellowship in sports medicine at the Toledo Hospital in Ohio. The chair of the AAO’s 2015 Convocation, Dr. Schuster was the 2022-2023 AAO President, and is a member of the AAO Education Committee. Dr. Schuster has a strong interest in medical education, and his academic interests include musculoskeletal medicine, biomechanics, and functional anatomy, with an emphasis on how the body transmits and organizes information to coordinate movement.

A Fascial Approach to The Abdominal Viscera