Overview
Combined Movement Theory (CMT) provides a three-dimensional approach to assessing and treating spinal pain and dysfunction, moving beyond traditional single-plane movement assessment.
This practical one-day workshop with Prof. Chris McCarthy explores how active and passive combinations of physiological and accessory movements can inform clinical reasoning and treatment. Drawing on biomechanics, manual therapy and neurophysiology, participants will develop a structured approach to complex spinal presentations.
Covering the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine, the course includes practical work on movement assessment, sensitivity patterns, palpation, mobilisation and manipulation, with a particular focus on managing acute and severe spinal pain.
Participants will also explore high-dose movement, treatment in resistance and mini-treatments, supported by case studies and clinical discussion.
This event is free to attend and open to all HCPC-registered physiotherapists and final-year students.
Booking is essential as places are limited.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:
- Apply Combined Movement Theory (CMT) to the assessment and management of spinal pain.
- Identify and classify anterior and posterior sensitivity patterns across the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine.
- Develop advanced palpation and movement assessment skills to identify relevant movement sensitivities.
- Apply clinical reasoning to select appropriate starting positions and manual therapy techniques.
- Use mobilisation and manipulation techniques across the whole spine, including in acute and severe presentations.
- Understand the biomechanical and neurophysiological principles underpinning CMT.
- Use mini-treatments and clinical reassessment to test treatment hypotheses and guide decision-making.
Course Content
The session will cover:
- Combined Movement Theory principles and clinical reasoning
- 3D assessment of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine
- Identifying anterior and posterior sensitivity patterns
- Spinal palpation, mobilisation and manipulation techniques
- Starting positions and treatment in resistance
- Neurophysiology and high-dose movement
- Mini-treatments and clinical reassessment
- Case studies and clinical application
Course handbook & certificates will be provided.
Course Format
Date: Saturday 16th Jan 2027
- 09:00 – Registration & Introduction
- 10:15 – Coffee Break
- 10:30 – Practical Session I: Active Movements
- 12:15 – Lunch
- 13:00 – Practical Session II: Cervical Spine
- 14:30 – Tea Break
- 14:45 – Practical Session III: Thoracic & Lumbo-Sacral Spine
- 15:30 – Summative Practical & Discussion
- 17:00 – Close
Please note: As this is a free event, lunch is not provided. Attendees are asked to bring their own packed lunch.
Who Should Attend
This workshop is designed for physiotherapists and healthcare professionals working with patients experiencing spinal pain and dysfunction, particularly those looking to develop their manual therapy skills and clinical reasoning.
It is suitable for clinicians with an interest in spinal assessment, mobilisation and manipulation, including those managing acute and complex spinal presentations.
Open to both Physio First members and non-members.