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Messiah University
Messiah University

Past Continuing Education Courses

Highlights from our past courses:

Jan. 2026: Dry Needling

In partnership with NAIOMT and LHM Physical Therapy Institute

Instructor: Gary Kearns, PT, COMT, FAAOMPT

Messiah University proudly hosted a dynamic continuing education course on Dry Needling in partnership with NAIOMT and LHM Physical Therapy Institute, bringing together clinicians from across the region for an immersive, hands-on learning experience. The course emphasized evidence-informed clinical reasoning, safe and effective application of dry needling techniques, and integration of manual therapy principles to enhance patient outcomes across orthopedic and sports populations.

Participants engaged in high-level instruction, live demonstration, and guided practice within a collaborative learning environment that reflects Messiah University’s commitment to excellence in professional education and clinical innovation. Events like this continue to strengthen the bridge between academic preparation and real-world clinical practice, empowering physical therapists to elevate the care they provide in their communities.

A group of students after attending the Dry Needling continuing education course.

March 2025: Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy

An Evidence Based Approach to Assessment and Treatment of Vestibular Disorders

Instructor: Sara MacDowell, PT, DPT

This evidence‑based course equipped clinicians with practical, effective skills to assess and treat vestibular and balance disorders across all care settings. With dizziness and falls affecting millions, participants gained targeted strategies to improve safety and enhance patient outcomes.

Course content explored key vestibular and balance anatomy, common pathologies, assessment tools, and proven treatment techniques. Dynamic videos, case studies, and hands‑on labs reinforced learning and provided practice with objective measures, canalith repositioning, and adaptation, habituation, and substitution interventions.

 Participants in the vestibular rehab course listening to instructor Sara MacDowell's lecture.

November 2024: Medical Screening

Medical Screening for Conditions We Do Not Want to Miss

Instructor: Bill Boissonault PT, DPT, DHSc, FAAOMPT, FAPTA 

 This course showcased the impact of the direct access health care model—fewer opioid prescriptions, reduced reliance on costly tests and procedures, lower healthcare costs, and stronger patient outcomes and satisfaction. With physical therapists serving as the first point of contact, the course highlighted how skilled medical screening is essential to ensuring these benefits are achieved safely and effectively.

Participants explored cutting‑edge research and up‑to‑date clinical guidelines for identifying red flags, recognizing when medical referral is needed, and making confident, informed decisions in fast‑paced clinical environments. Designed to elevate both confidence and competence, this course empowered clinicians to fully embrace the potential of direct access while keeping patient safety at the forefront.

participants in the medical screening course listening to instructor Bill Boissonault's lecture

March 2023: Neuroscience of Pain

Education, Application, and Beyond

Instructor: Adriaan Louw, PT, PhD 

Over 100 healthcare providers participated in this one‑day seminar. Presenter Adriaan Louw delivered an engaging, up‑to‑date exploration of pain through the lens of modern neuroscience. Participants refreshed and expanded their understanding of pain mechanisms while examining how new research translates directly into manual therapy practice and sports performance enhancement.

Instructor of the Neuroscience of Pain course (Adriaan Louw) with Messiah DPT professors (Karen, Burket, Paula Johnson, Mike Lehr, and Borko Rodic).