December 5-6, 2025 – LIVE WEBINAR – LINKED: Breathing & Postural Control, Part-1

Knowledge Is Now is Partnering with MasseryPT, LLC to bring you this live Webinar! This event is a live event only and will not be recorded.

Friday, December 5, 2025 from 8:30am – 1:20pm, Central Standard Time  &
Saturday, December 6, 2025 from 8:30am – 12:15pm Central Standard Time 

Attendance on both days is required for CCU/CEU credit

This course, developed by Mary Massery, proposes a new definition of “core stability;” redefining it as the dynamic control of trunk pressures to optimize postural stability (balance). Dr. Massery’s novel “soda pop can model” links breathing mechanics (including the vocal folds), to postural control using multi-system interactions.
Part-1 lays foundational information and presents numerous quick interventions utilizing positioning and ventilatory strategies. Clinical cases will be used throughout the day to illustrate concepts. The course is applicable for any pediatric or adult patient (or therapist) who breathes!

Following this course, participants will be able to:

1. Describe how trunk pressures link breathing and postural control using the Soda Pop Can Model.
2. Describe the multiple, simultaneous roles of the diaphragm as related to breathing, postural control, gastroesophageal reflux, constipation, and venous return.
3. Demonstrate the role of the vocal folds in normal postural stability responses (balance) and make the case for using speaking valves for patients with tracheostomies.
4. Position patients for optimal physiological and biomechanical support of breathing with simple equipment (towels, pillows, etc.).
5. Use a ventilatory strategy algorithm presented in class to optimally match breathing with movements from bed mobility to athletic endeavors.
6. Apply concepts to a wide variety of patient populations from infancy to geriatrics.

Friday Agenda (Central Standard Time): 
8:15 – 8:30 Zoom waiting room opens
8:30 am CLASS STARTS
8:30 – 8:50 Discussion Class starts: Overview of course topics & logistics
8:50 – 10:10 Lecture Breathing and posture: Pressure control (Soda pop model)
10:10 – 10:20 Break
10:20 – 12:15 Lab Positioning strategies: What can you do in 90 Seconds or less that has a profound and lasting effect?
12:15 – 12:25 Break
12:25 – 1:15 Lecture Breathing and posture: The diaphragm’s many roles
1:15 – 1:20 Discussion Wrap up, homework, Q&A
1:20 pm CLASS ENDS – Instructor will stay after class to answer questions

Saturday Agenda (Central Standard Time): 
8:15 – 8:30 Zoom window opens
8:30 am CLASS STARTS
8:30 – 8:50 Discussion Class starts: Recap, Pearls, sleep homework, Q&A
8:50 – 10:15 Lecture Breathing and posture: The internal organs. The vocal folds.
10:15 – 10:30 Break
10:30 – 12:05 Lab Ventilatory / movement strategies: Integrating neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, respiratory, and sensory systems. Problem solving session
12:05 – 12:15 Discussion Summary, next week’s homework, further studies, more Q&A
12:15 pm CLASS ENDS – Instructor will stay after class to answer questions

This course meets the requirement for Professional Development hours towards your ASHA renewal since it is approved by TSHA! You can count these hours towards ASHA renewal when you submit your Compliance Form.