Interdisciplinary Integration: Agenda

8-10 The Connection Between the Oral System and Body Function – Jonathan A. Parker, DDS

In this entertaining and informative presentation you will learn how the oral system effects structural issues of the head and neck area. Dr. Parker will describe how the anatomy and physiology of the oral system effect the ANS, body posture, pain symptoms, and function of the body. We will discuss how oral appliance therapy works and how it can help manage patient’s symptoms. You will see how to integrate PRI physical therapy concepts and techniques with oral appliance therapy. You will also learn about the connection between healthy sleep and maintaining health. You will understand obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and its health consequences, diagnosis and treatment. The integration of PRI physical therapy techniques and oral appliance therapy in the management of sleep disorders will be also be discussed.

10-10:15 Break
10:15-12 The Connection Between the Oral System and Body Function (cont’d)
1-3 The Airway: Dentist and Orthodontic Role in Airway Development and Maintenance - Michael Hoefs, DDS, DABCP, FAACP, FADI

In this presentation we will look at facial growth and development and how it influences the airway and head posture. Dr. Hoefs will review the orthodontic treatments in conjunction with the medical disciplines on directing airway competency in the growing child. We will also look at the relationship of nasal respiration, mouth breathing, and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and its influence on headaches and orofacial pain and TMD. Dor. Hoefs will then discuss the effect these conditions have on facial symmetry, cranial balance (osteopathy) and how this can be treated with facial orthopedics and traditional orthodontics in children. In adults, we will discuss epigenetic orthodontics, Advanced Lightwire Functional (ALF) procedures and orthognathic surgery that improve airway and facial symmetry. All of these discussions will include the PRI perspective and integration.

3-3:15 Break
3:15-4:15 Forward Head Position Influences on the Anterior Neck: A PRI Perspective – Ron Hruska, MPA, PT

This presentation will outline the myokinematic activity associated with asymmetrical anterior neck muscle function and the forward head position. Emphasis will be placed on ergonomic awareness, reference center sensory integration and appropriate cervical cranial concomitant position with upper quadrant function.

4:15-5 Panel Discussion – Moderated by Ron Hruska

Friday, April 20th
8-10 Upper Airway Obstruction; Post Traumatic Vertigo; Traumatic Injuries Associated with the Neck – Chris Cederberg, MD
10-10:15 Break
10:15-12 Visual-Cervical Interactions – Heidi Wise, OD, FCOVD

How visual processes can influence and are influenced by cervical position. Case studies will be discussed.

12-1 Lunch
1-4 Voice and Movement, Putting It All Together – Marina Gilman, M.M., M.A. CCC-SLP

The voice is more than just the function of the vocal folds. While an understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the vocal folds is important to those who work voice clients, it is equally important to understand how postural dynamics of the whole body impact this highly complex function. Therefore this workshop will briefly review the anatomy and physiology of laryngeal function. Then the greater context will be provided with a brief introduction to the work of Moshe Feldenkrais and his work, which lead to the role of posture and the entire body as it relates to vocal function. Participants will then be introduced to specific exercises and strategies that can be used to integrate voice work with posture.

4-4:15 Break
4:15-5 Panel Discussion – Moderated by Ron Hruska