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Brian Macks Clinical Instructor & Faculty-In-Training Brian Macks PT, DPT, OCS, COMT, FAAOMPT received his physical therapy degree from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan in 1985. He became OCS certified in 1993 and recertified 2003 & 2013. Brian passed his COMT examination with distinction in 2001 and was accepted as a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy (AAOMPT) in 2002. Brian received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Wayne State University in 2018. Brian is a graduate of the North American Institute of Orthopedic Manual Therapy (NAIOMT) Fellowship Program. Brian holds membership in the AAOMPT and Orthopedic Section, APTA. His professional activities include Treasurer, Eastern District, Michigan Physical Therapy Association (MPTA) 1992 to 2000; manual therapy content expert, MPTA Direct Access Task Force, 1998-2003; Legislative Key Contact, APTA, 1986-present; and Warren, Michigan site coordinator for manual therapy 1994 to 2003. Brian is an Examiner and Faculty - Clinical Fellowship Instructor. Brian is the supervisor of Henry Ford Rehabilitation Lowell Park in Sterling Heights, Michigan where he sees all varieties of orthopedic/sports medicine patients. Other training includes Osteopathic Muscle Energy and Mariano Rocobado class-work. Family is at the center of Brian’s life with diverse interests including triathlon, camping, fishing, reading, and game nights.

A beautiful person and amazing clinician has passed into legend It is with a heavy and sad heart that I inform you all of the passing of my dearest, closest friend Cliff Fowler. Cliff peacefully passed away early morning Saturday 23rd of October. My relationship with Cliff began in 1974 when I went on an acupuncture course he was teaching in Kingston, Ontario. I was immediately taken in by his unique clinical charisma and knowledge. We bonded on that course and became close friends and kindred spirits for the next 47 years. It was an inescapable fact that Cliff was an innate innovator. New clinical ideas and philosophies seemed to flow effortlessly from his brain and this energy was to overflow into people like myself, Diane Lee, Jim Meadows, Carol Kennedy and so many others. He was certainly the energy behind Canada’s clinical ‘innovative years’ between 1974 and 1994. During this time, along with his lifelong buddies David Lamb and John Oldham they developed the cervical and lumbar “Scanning examinations” which would become the foundations of the assessment procedures within the Canadian Orthopaedic Division. I moved to Abbotsford BC in 1978 and we became neighbors in the same town. So, for the next 43 years we could work together clinically, research together and socialize together. Cliff had an inexhaustible appetite for thinking and talking about manual therapy. Our wives quickly banned us from discussing work when we went out for dinner. As recently as a month ago he was explaining to me how he believed the biomechanics of the SIJ was completely different in weight bearing and non-weight bearing. He sometimes exhausted my brain with his developing ideas. What a wonderful mind! I am sure Cliff will be referred to as one of our clinical ‘giants’, as indeed he was. I prefer to look at him as a clinical force. A force that would forever change an entire generation of orthopaedic manual therapists in the United States and Canada. Through those of us fortunate enough to have him as our mentor that force will continue to influence future generations to come. My sincerest condolences go out to his wife Pat, sons Rick, Dave and wife Kelly, and grandkids. And now, the hardest words I have ever had to write, “Goodbye my friend. A part of my heart has gone with you”. Erl Pettman

BECOME A CFI/FACULTY Become a Clinical Fellowship Instructor Excited to Join Our Team If you would like to apply to become a Clinical Fellowship Instructor (CFI) or a Specialty Instructor, please contact us to meet with our team. Applying for faculty status is by invitation only. Contact Us

Explore expert-led ASPIRE specialty courses designed to enhance your manual therapy skills.

Nelson Min Specialty Course Faculty Nelson Min MSPT, CMPT, OCS, AFDNS, completed his internship in athletic training in 1997 and worked with various athletics including the United States Soccer Federation. He received his Master’s in Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Miami in 2002. He has been teaching and developing dry needling coursework since 2009. He is board certified as an Orthopedic Clinical Specialist through the American Physical Therapy Board of Specialties, is a certified manual physical therapist through the North American Institute of Orthopedic Manual Therapy and received his Advanced Functional Dry Needling Specialty through Evidence in Motion. He is currently a Fellow in Training at Aspire OMT. Nelson treats every day at his clinic in Reston, VA treating a wide range of patient populations from professional athletes, everyday weekend warriors, and chronic pain sufferers. He believes that ultimately, it’s the body that heals and physical therapy enables the optimal environment. nelsonmin@bodiesinmotionpt.com

Gail Elliott Clinical Instructor Gail Elliott DScPT, OCS, COMT, FAAOMPT, received her Bachelors in Physical Therapy from Northwestern University in 1980. Her Masters in Orthopedic Physical Therapy from University of Indianapolis in 1993. She completed her DSc at Andrews University in 2020. She Received her FAAOMPT in 2016. She is the Director of the Postprofessional Program at Andrews University where she is also an Associate Professor at Andrews teaching in the DPT program. Physical Therapy and Manual Therapy in particular have been a passion for many years. She particularly enjoys teaching and mentoring students. Her relaxation time is spent reading, boating, camping, and traveling with family.

SPECIALTY COURSES Manip Like A Girl: Work Smarter, Not Harder with Stacy Soappman Not just for girls, this course is for anyone who wants to learn how to treat patients larger than themselves. Have you learned manipulation skills in class but struggle to integrate it into your clinical practice? Do you avoid using these techniques on your patients because it hurts your hands? Do you have difficulty performing manual therapy techniques or manipulations on patients larger than yourself? If you want to learn how to handle patients larger than yourself and do it with more efficiency and effectiveness then this is the course for you. This course will emphasize ergonomically efficient manipulation techniques. We will teach you that speed and body mechanics, not size, dictate how well you can manipulate. CEU credits: 10 hours, 3 hours on-line, 7 hours in the classroom REGISTER Upper Extremity Manual Therapy for the Physical Therapist Assistant with Pam Kikillus This one-day course will provide instruction in hands on joint and soft tissue mobilization for the PTA on the shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist and hand. The class with be largely hands-on laboratory experience with demonstration, practice, feedback and critical thinking for case scenarios. Discussion will be given to the dose of the intervention, expected response, modifications of the interventions, and complementary neuromuscular techniques for the manual therapy interventions. CEU Credits: 8 Hours REGISTER Lower Extremity Manual Therapy for the Physical Therapist Assistant with Pam Kikillus This one-day course will provide instruction in hands on joint and soft tissue mobilization for the PTA on the hip, knee, foot and ankle. The class with be largely hands-on laboratory experience with demonstration, practice, feedback and critical thinking for case scenarios. Discussion will be given to the dose of the intervention, expected response, modifications of the interventions, and complementary neuromuscular techniques for the manual therapy interventions. CEU Credits: 8 Hours REGISTER Two Truths and a Lie. Unpacking Cervicogenic Dizziness: Evaluation & Management with Chris Thurston Are you treating patients with neck pain? Chances are, they have suffered from cervicogenic dizziness. After pain, dizziness and unsteadiness are the most frequent complaints in those with persistent problems following a whiplash trauma, up to 70% reported. T his one day course is designed to bridge the gap amongst PT specialists in the management of patients with cervicogenic dizziness. Whether you specialize in the treatment of orthopedic, neurologic, concussion, or vestibular conditions, you will leave this course grounded in effectively identifying and treating patients with cervicogenic dizziness. This course is intended for physical therapists with experience managing patients with dizziness who wish to improve their skill in differential diagnosis, manual examination, and treatment of those patients whose dizziness has a cervicogenic element. CEU Credits: 8 Hours REGISTER Treatment of the Spine for PTAs with Pam Kikillus This course is designed for PTAs to enhance skills when treating patients with cervical, thoracic, or lumbosacral diagnoses. The course will review common spinal pathologies/injuries and typical patient presentations. The course will focus on safety with certain patient populations, and interventions specific to a spinal region. Interventions will include functional exercise, specific exercise, patient education, taping/bracing, passive range of motion, soft tissue mobilization, as well as clinical pearls. CEU credits: 14 hours REGISTER Hand Therapy for the non-CHT: Demystifying the Distal Upper Extremity with Pam Kikillus Do you think only CHTs can see patients with issues distal to the shoulder? Not true. This course will demystify the distal upper extremity. We will simplify the “when do I refer out” process and “when can I keep the patient on my schedule”. We will cover common pathologies, exam techniques, and special tests. What needs to be included in an examination for this patient? What safety concerns exist? Interventions will include over the counter bracing, taping, manual therapy, neurological re-education, functional exercises, and injury/pathology specific interventions. 1 day course CEU credits: 8 hours REGISTER Chronic Pain, Functional Medicine, and Concussion: Regional & Systemic Factors that Affect Pain Processing & Tissue Health with David Musnick This is a 2-day virtual course that explores all of the important regional and systemic factors that affect pain processing, tissue inflammation, and tissue health. The course will cover assessment and treatment of the following topics: Spinal cord factors in pain processing. Brain factors in pain processing including anxiety, stress, brain inflammation, neurotransmitters, and concussion. Dietary factors in MSK tissue health including anti-inflammatory diets, food choices for brain and tissue health. Sleep and insomnia: causes of increased pain and inflammation and how to improve sleep. Scar Dysfunction: diagnosis and treatment. Stress Management: basic techniques of stress management including breathing and tapping. Hormone issues affecting pain, muscles, and joints: menopause, adrenal dysfunction, and low testosterone. Concussion: a pathophysiology approach. Tendinopathy: pathology, diagnosis, and treatment. Hypermobility, Ehlers Danlos: regional and systemic hypermobility management options. Cognitive impairment and its effect on pain and physical therapy. Osteoarthritis: pathophysiology and approaches to treatment. Modalities for MSK pain & scarring including: frequency specific microcurrent, laser, and PEMF. CEU credits: 15 hours 2 Day Virtual Course Sunday, February 25, 2024 & Sunday, March 3, 2024 REGISTER The Athlete's Arm with Pam Kikillus Do you have a rock climber on your schedule, but you have never been rock climbing yourself? What about a swimmer and you don’t know how to do the butterfly? We want you to be comfortable and competent in treating all athlete’s arms, even if you don't participate in that sport yourself. This course content includes upper extremity injuries, both traumatic and overuse in various sports/athletics. We will highlight common injuries and overuse conditions in the arm, from the shoulder to the fingers. We will cover both throwing sports and non-throwing sports, and not just the “overhead athlete”. We will look "up the chain" and see how the arm is influenced by not only the trunk but potentially the lower extremities. Material will be presented with lectures, discussions, demonstrations and lab activities. We will present mechanisms of injury, specific clinical exam components, and interventions. You will learn interventions such as specific exercises, functional activities, manual therapy, and taping. 1 day course CEU credits: 8 hours REGISTER

Olympic Sports & Spine (OSS) is seeking multiple Physical Therapist for our clinic located in Covington, Washington. The available positions are full time. The work schedules typically are four, ten hour days per week Monday through Saturday from 7:20am to 6pm. At OSS, we treat one patient at a time, all the time. We do not double book appointments and we do not use aides to treat patients. The patients are our priority and our one-on-one approach gives our therapists the best chance to get them well. Our priorities are also reflected in our exceptional learning environment. Our mentorship, residency and other continuing education opportunities set us apart. Finally, let's not forget the quality of our work environment. Our clinics are fun; full of supportive colleagues who all share an interest in creating the best possible place to work. If this is the kind of workplace you have been looking for, we want to hear from you. Minimum Qualifications: 1. Degree in Physical Therapy from an institution accredited by Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education 2. Current Washington State Physical Therapist License (or license applicant status) OSS005 < Back Physical Therapists- $4,000 Sign-On Bonus! Covington, WA 98042, USA Job Type : Full Time - Salary https://www.osstherapy.com/ Job Details: Olympic Sports & Spine (OSS) is seeking multiple Physical Therapist for our clinic located in Covington, Washington. The available positions are full time. The work schedules typically are four, ten hour days per week Monday through Saturday from 7:20am to 6pm. At OSS, we treat one patient at a time, all the time. We do not double book appointments and we do not use aides to treat patients. The patients are our priority and our one-on-one approach gives our therapists the best chance to get them well. Our priorities are also reflected in our exceptional learning environment. Our mentorship, residency and other continuing education opportunities set us apart. Finally, let's not forget the quality of our work environment. Our clinics are fun; full of supportive colleagues who all share an interest in creating the best possible place to work. If this is the kind of workplace you have been looking for, we want to hear from you. Minimum Qualifications: 1. Degree in Physical Therapy from an institution accredited by Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education 2. Current Washington State Physical Therapist License (or license applicant status) OSS005 View other Jobs Apply Now

Become a Doctor of Science in Physical Therapy. Become a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy. Earn a Certificate in Orthopedic Manual Therapy. Earn a Certificate as a Spinal Manipulative Therapist. FAQ Which certificates can I earn? COMT Certification: After completing the first 6 courses, therapists are able to sit for an oral examination and earn their Certification in Manual Therapy (COMT). SMT Certification: Following the last 5 courses, therapist sit for a final oral examination to earn their certification in orthopedic Spinal Manipulative Therapy (SMT). Certified Dry Needling Specialist: Complete the Aspire Dry Needling courses (DN1, DN2, and DN3) and pass the practical & written exams during DN3 to earn the title of Certified Dry Needling Specialist (CDNS). Can I earn a doctorate as well? Aspire is proud to partner with Andrews University in Berrien Springs MI, to offer our courses as part of the DSc advanced degree. Earn your doctorate while advancing your clinical skills. All courses and exams have Sabbath-friendly options. Can I register for a course for CEU's even if I'm not interested in earning a certification? Yes, Aspire offers its courses as CEU's for those interested in developing their manual therapy and clinical reasoning skills. We accept students in their 3rd year of PT school as well. There are Sabbath-friendly courses available. What is the Cancellation Policy We understand that circumstances may arise requiring you to cancel your registration for an upcoming course. Please review our cancellation policy below for information on refunds and options available based on the timing of your cancellation. • Full Refund: • A full refund will be provided for written cancellations received 30 days or more prior to the course start date. • Course Fee Transfer: • Written cancellations received 15-30 days prior to the course start date will allow the registrant to apply the course fee to a future course within the next 18 months. • 50% Refund: • Cancellations received within 7 to 14 days of the course start date will be eligible for a 50% refund of the course fee. Cancellation Process: All cancellations must be submitted in writing. Please send your cancellation request to info@aspireomt.com with the subject line "Course Cancellation - [Your Full Name]."Include your full name, registration details, and the reason for cancellation in the email. Aspire OMT reserves the right to cancel any course due to low enrollment or other unforeseen circumstances. In the event of a cancellation, registered participants will be notified no later than one (1) week prior to the scheduled course start date. Participants will be offered the choice of a full refund, a transfer into another course, or a credit applied toward a future course. We value your commitment to continuing education and will work with you to ensure a smooth and fair resolution should a course be canceled. We appreciate your understanding of our cancellation policy, and we encourage you to reach out to info@aspireomt.com with any questions or concerns. We look forward to serving you! Can I host courses at my clinic? If you would like to host Aspire courses at your clinic or site, we are happy to discuss adding a new location. Please contact us to discuss a possible collaboration. Can I become a Lab Assistant, CFI, or faculty? If you would like to become a Clinical Fellowship Instructor (CFI), please contact us. Our fellowship program, in conjunction with Andrews University, has launched! Each Fellow in Training is paired with a Clinical Fellowship Instructor. Additionally, if you are interested in lab assisting, please contact us at info@aspireomt.com. Once approved, your malpractice insurance will be collected, and you can contact the individual faculty members to request to be a lab assistant. Applying for faculty status is by invitation only. We are happy to answer questions and inquiries. If you don't see your question below and would like more information on our courses, certificates, and collaboration with the Andrews University DSc degree, please email us and we will be happy to help.

Full benefit package: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life/AD&D, LTD, sick, vacation, holidays and $2000 Continuing Education. Olympic Sports & Spine (OSS) is seeking a Physical Therapist with experience offering Vestibular Rehabilitation & Concussion Management Services for our clinic located in Tacoma, Washington near the Allenmore Hospital. This position will work in close collaboration with a leading vestibular and concussion therapist in our thriving outpatient, orthopedic clinic. The case load will combine both vestibular rehab and general orthopedic populations. The available position is full-time. The typical work schedule is four, ten hour days per week, but a five, eight hour day schedule is possible if preferred. At OSS, we treat one patient at a time, all the time. We do not double book appointments and we do not use aides to treat patients. The patients are our priority and our one-on-one approach gives our therapists the best chance to get them well. Our priorities are also reflected in our exceptional learning environment. Our mentorship, residency and other continuing education opportunities set us apart. Finally, let's not forget the quality of our work environment. Our clinics are fun; full of supportive colleagues who all share an interest in creating the best possible place to work. If this is the kind of workplace you have been looking for, we want to hear from you. Minimum Qualifications: 1. Degree in Physical Therapy from an institution accredited by Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education 2. Current Washington State Physical Therapist License (or license applicant status) OSS003 < Back Physical Therapist (Vestibular Rehab Specialist) - $4,000 Sign-On Bonus! Tacoma, WA, USA Job Type : Full Time - Salary https://www.osstherapy.com/ Job Details: Full benefit package: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life/AD&D, LTD, sick, vacation, holidays and $2000 Continuing Education. Olympic Sports & Spine (OSS) is seeking a Physical Therapist with experience offering Vestibular Rehabilitation & Concussion Management Services for our clinic located in Tacoma, Washington near the Allenmore Hospital. This position will work in close collaboration with a leading vestibular and concussion therapist in our thriving outpatient, orthopedic clinic. The case load will combine both vestibular rehab and general orthopedic populations. The available position is full-time. The typical work schedule is four, ten hour days per week, but a five, eight hour day schedule is possible if preferred. At OSS, we treat one patient at a time, all the time. We do not double book appointments and we do not use aides to treat patients. The patients are our priority and our one-on-one approach gives our therapists the best chance to get them well. Our priorities are also reflected in our exceptional learning environment. Our mentorship, residency and other continuing education opportunities set us apart. Finally, let's not forget the quality of our work environment. Our clinics are fun; full of supportive colleagues who all share an interest in creating the best possible place to work. If this is the kind of workplace you have been looking for, we want to hear from you. Minimum Qualifications: 1. Degree in Physical Therapy from an institution accredited by Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education 2. Current Washington State Physical Therapist License (or license applicant status) OSS003 View other Jobs Apply Now

Joe Nance Clinical Instructor Joe Nance PT, MPT, OCS, COMT, FAAOMPT, ATC. Joe grew up in Issaquah, WA and obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science from Western Washington University where he played varsity football for three years. A year after his graduation from WWU, Joe received his Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Certification (CSCS). Following his degree from WWU, Joe attended the University of Puget Sound and completed his Masters in Physical Therapy. While attending UPS, Joe earned his Athletic Training Certification (ATC) working with all varsity sports. Furthermore, while at UPS, Joe and a fellow student started an athletic performance enhancement business working with high school and college athletes to improve their speed, agility, and athleticism. Joe and his family moved to Kenmore from Bend, Oregon. While in Bend he served as clinic director for Rebound Physical Therapy. Previously when living in Kirkland Joe served as a Clinical Supervisor & PT for Olympic Physical Therapy (OPT). During his 11 year tenure with OPT, Joe served as Clinical Supervisor at both their Mercer Island and Kirkland facilities and was a key member of their clinical staff mentoring program. Joe is a fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy (AAOMPT). Joe's hobbies include fishing, exercising, camping, skiing, coaching, BBQing, reading, mentoring, doing home projects with his kids and spending time with friends and family. Any chance he gets he spends time with his wife and 4 kids. He loves watching Husky and Seahawk football, traveling, vacationing and exploring with his family. joenance@lakewashingtonpt.com