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This course offers an in-depth exploration of osteopathic assessment and care for people presenting with neck pain, headaches, tinnitus or dizziness, particularly when a cervical contribution is considered in a complex clinical situation. It focuses on patients whose persistent symptoms, comorbidities and care trajectories call for an individualised approach and interdisciplinary collaboration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The theoretical component covers the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical signs and symptoms, and differential diagnoses associated with the conditions studied. It develops the use of precise clinical terminology, structured clinical interviewing and the recognition of situations warranting referral to another professional. Osteopathic intervention is considered within the limits of its scope of practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The practical component focuses on the Advanced Volumetric Approach (AVA), developed by Joseph Gill-Lussier from the teachings of Robert Rousse and the contributions of Becker, Hoover and Arbuckle. Workshops explore tissue dialogue, work on volumes, densities and adhesions within the model taught, and the use of peripheral levers in thoracic, visceral, cervical and craniofacial approaches. The concepts of the cervical neuromechanical unit and therapeutic rapport provide the guiding framework for this exploration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Learning combines technical precision, adaptation to patient tolerance, breathing and the person\u2019s active participation. Models of self-efficacy, enactive inference and co-regulation serve as frameworks for reflection to support a collaborative therapeutic relationship. The aim is to integrate clinical knowledge, technical skills and professional attitudes into an approach to assessment, intervention and follow-up tailored to each situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
32 hours planned (3 days at Panta Rhei and 8h of (pre-recorded) online theory<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The course is intended for qualified osteopaths with basic clinical experience in structural, cranial and visceral techniques. Familiarity with the clinical signs and symptoms of vertigo, headaches and chronic pain is an asset. The concepts required for clinical integration are reviewed in the theoretical component.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This three-day practical course explores the Advanced Volumetric Approach (AVA) to complex cervical disorders. Through demonstrations, supervised practice and clinical case discussions, participants develop their assessment and treatment skills, connecting the cervical region with thoracic, visceral and craniofacial structures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The first day introduces the principles of AVA and the conditions for tissue dialogue. Topics include the assessment triad, test-correction, induction and the barrier concept, alongside tissue frameworks, fluids and tensegrity as models used within the approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Practical sessions cover global work and the comma technique, followed by lateral, anteroposterior and cephalocaudal thoracic compression tests. Participants explore spiral thoracic techniques, work on the mediastinal region, lateral decompression of the thorax and shoulder, and the use of levers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The programme then moves to the posterolateral chain, the segmental thoracolumbar approach and the integration of peripheral levers. The day concludes with work on visceral frameworks in the periumbilical, hypogastric and pelvic regions, exploring their positional relationships with the cervical region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Throughout the day, emphasis is placed on anatomical identification, positioning, comfort and adapting contact to the individual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Day two focuses on anatomical landmarks and palpatory observations in the cervical region. Participants practise cross-pattern work on tissue densities and adhesions within the AVA model, using distraction or compression, and explore links with the prevertebral chain and segmental approaches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Further sessions address the anterior cervicovisceral compartment, inverted levers and pivot, the deep visceral sheath and hyoid mobilisation. Positioning, contact, breathing and active participation are adapted to individual tolerance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cervical and craniocervical techniques include mobilisation, identification of the slowing point, counterstrain in side-lying, and the Romeo and Juliet technique, developed as a modification of Fr\u00e9d\u00e9rick Sary\u2019s technique.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The day concludes with a clinical case exercise. Participants develop a cervical treatment sequence, relate findings to symptoms, fatigue and apprehension, and practise adjusting techniques, reassessing and explaining their clinical choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The final day introduces the cranial volumetric concept, drawing on material from Arbuckle, D.O., Dr Eardley Holland and Dr Manson. Topics include tensegrity, pillars, arches, cavities and compartments. Volume-representation exercises, including the bowl exercise, help participants explore these concepts and their integration with the cervical neuromechanical unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Practical sessions focus on the C0\u2013C1 junction and temporomandibular joints. Participants practise cranial compression\u2013decompression approaches and TMJ techniques using distraction or compression, with supervised guidance and individual adaptation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Clinical case studies bring the course content together. Participants work through clinical interviews, prioritise information, consider referral decisions and select an appropriate AVA sequence. Patient education, self-management and follow-up are incorporated into a collaboratively developed care plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The course concludes with practical integration, reassessment and communication of clinical reasoning. Individual feedback supports reflection on learning and identifies areas for further professional development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Techniques are taught through demonstrations and supervised exercises, with clinical assessment guiding their selection and application. Individual practical observation and feedback take place throughout all three days.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTarget Audience and Prerequisites<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Day 1 \u2014 Foundations of Volumetric Work and the Global Approach<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Day 2 \u2014 Cervical, Thoracocervical and Cervicovisceral Approaches<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Day 3 \u2014 Craniofacial Approaches and Clinical Integration<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Teaching and Practical Feedback<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Learning Objectives<\/h3>\n\n\n\n