The hand contains 48 named nerves, 24 of which are sensory nerves. Our hands hold the ability to detect changes in temperature, tone and texture. Despite the plethora of information, we can discern from our hands, an effective palpation is an underutilized tool. In this age of evidence-based treatment, we have seen a shift away from manual therapy. Research has given us a clear idea of what we can accurately interpret with our hands and how this can integrate with assessment, treatment and re-evaluation.

 

This two-day course provides an introduction to the art and science of palpation and is designed for health practitioners interested in entering the IMMT education stream who don’t have hands-on or manual therapy experience.  We will explore the many forms of palpation: layer palpation, palpation through range and palpation through oscillation. Through guided labs, we will help participants start to build a mental map of touch that allows them to more effectively interpret the plethora of information that their hands are perceiving. Once we have established these core foundations we will then start to move through the areas of the body and discover how palpation seamlessly integrates with assessment, treatment and re-evaluation. In each lab, a manual therapy concept will be introduced so by the end of the course, participants will come away with new tools to integrate into their practice and a clear understanding of the scope and role palpation can have within their practice.