Dates & Location
Mix of Online Webinars and then a 3-day on-site lab in Dubai at the Novotel Hotel Barsha.
PH1 Webinar: 10th January 2025
PH2 BD Webinar: 10th February 2025
PH2 PP Webinar: 10th March 2025
Lab module: 11-13 April 2025 (on-site)
PH3 Webinar: 10th June 2025
Course Overview
This course is broken into 3 parts. The Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Health Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic) is awarded to licensed Physical Therapists (PTs) who complete a series of comprehensive evidence-based education courses, written and clinical testing at each level and a written case report rigorously reviewed by the CAPP Case Reflection Committee.
To achieve the certification, you must attend and successfully pass all three levels of the Pelvic Health Physical Therapy track hosted by the Academy. You must pass the CAPP Scenario Testing at the end of each course and pass the Post-Course Exam (multiple-choice) after attending each course with an 80% score or higher. Required coursework includes:
PH1 – Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Level 1*
PH2 BD – Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Level 2 Bowel Dysfunction
PH2 PP – Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Level 2 Pelvic Pain.
PH3 – Complete one of the following courses: Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Level 3, Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Level 3 Neurologic Conditions, Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Level 3 Pediatric Health, or Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Level 3 Male Health
Then Successfully “Pass” a completed Case Reflection within 1 year from the date you completed your last OB course.
Upon successful passing, recipients are featured in the Academy’s distinguished directory (if they are an Academy member), and receive a Certificate of Achievement they can display in their office to patients and employers to demonstrate the caliber of their accomplishment.
Part 1: Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Level 1 (PH1)
Course Description
The PH1 course teaches the physical therapy professional basic skills necessary to treat patients with pelvic health dysfunction with primary emphasis on under active pelvic floor muscle conditions.
PH1 Webinar: The Webinar course is a prerequisite for the Lab course. The Webinar course conducted 100% virtually through a live webinar format. The Webinar course is didactic and teaches the physical therapy professional basic skills necessary to treat patients with pelvic health dysfunction with primary emphasis on under active pelvic floor muscle conditions. Topics covered include: anatomy of the pelvic girdle, physiology of micturition, dysfunctions of the lower urinary tract, dysfunctions of the pelvic muscles, patient history examination, testing and treatment interventions for the patient with underactive pelvic floor muscle conditions, urogynecologic surgeries, medication, prevention of pelvic floor dysfunction, and documentation.
PH1 Lab: The Lab offers the physical therapy professional to apply knowledge obtained from the Webinar in a face-to-face lab course with hands-on activities including external and internal vaginal examinations. Attendees will work in groups of 2-3 as both clinicians and patients. Attendees must have completed the Webinar prior to attending the Lab course. In the Lab, you will apply knowledge from the topics you have learned in the Webinar: anatomy of the pelvic girdle, physiology of micturition, dysfunctions of the lower urinary tract, dysfunctions of the pelvic muscles, patient history examination, testing and treatment interventions for the patient with underactive pelvic floor muscle conditions, urogynecologic surgeries, medication, and prevention of pelvic floor dysfunction.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course level, participants will be able to:
Examination / Evaluation
Identify and examine the anatomy of the pelvic girdle
Describe the function of the lower urinary tract and female pelvic organs.
Demonstrate proper infection control techniques involved in pelvic floor muscle examination.
Perform an external evaluation of the female genitalia verbally identifying bones, ligaments,muscles and other structures.
Perform an internal pelvic examination identifying muscles, ligaments, bony prominences with identification of pelvic floor muscle origins and insertions.
Demonstrate proper technique in testing muscle strength of the levator ani muscles.
Demonstrate proper technique in testing for pelvic organ prolapse.
Demonstrate proper use of handheld EMG biofeedback to assess pelvic floor musculature.
Diagnosis / Prognosis
Differentiate between under active pelvic floor muscles and overactive pelvic floor muscles.
Demonstrate an understanding of bladder tests and measurements (bladder diary, urodynamic testing, pad testing, etc.) that are used in the process of differential diagnosis.
Demonstrate the ability to compose a plan of care including functional goals, prognosis and length of care for the patient with under active pelvic floor conditions.
Explain red flags related to treatment of the pelvic floor and understand when to refer to another healthcare provider.
Understand urogynecologic surgeries and their effect on prognosis and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction.
Demonstrate understanding of various medications and their effects on the bowel and bladder and identify how that may affect prognosis for a patient with pelvic floor muscle dysfunction.
Intervention
Explain the effects of pelvic floor under activity and proper technique of pelvic muscle exercises for rehabilitative purposes.
Explain the relationship between the abdominal muscles and the pelvic floor muscles as they relate to activities of daily living.
Describe the various interventions available to strengthen the muscles of the patient with an under active pelvic floor and clinically reason when and why the various interventions might be used.
Demonstrate proper use of a handheld pelvic floor muscle electrical stimulation unit and explain its appropriate uses for a patient with pelvic floor muscle dysfunction.
Describe techniques that can be used to train (retrain) the bladder and when each intervention might be used.
Part 2: Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Level 2 (PH2)
Course Description
The PH2 course level consists of three required components:
PH2 Bowel Dysfunction Webinar (PH2BD): The Webinar course is a prerequisite for the Lab course. The Webinar course conducted 100% virtually through a live webinar format. The PH2 course offers the physical therapy professional lectures on anatomy, pathophysiology and physical therapy evaluation/treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction-related bowel dysfunction. Topics covered include: Concepts of pelvic floor muscle motor control training, rectal balloon training, coccygeal mobilization, and clinical application of modalities will be reviewed.teaches the physical therapy professional basic skills necessary to treat patients with pelvic health dysfunction with primary emphasis on under active pelvic floor muscle conditions.
PH2 Pelvic Pain Webinar (PH2PP): The Webinar course is a prerequisite for the Lab course. The Webinar course conducted 100% virtually through a live webinar format. This webinar provides the physical therapy professional lectures on clinically relevant information and training in the examination, evaluation and intervention of female pelvic pain, anatomy, pathophysiology and physical therapy evaluation/treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction related to pelvic pain in the female patient. Basic concepts of myofascial release, female sexual response and sexual dysfunction, and clinical application of modalities will be reviewed as well. Clinical decision-making and an integration of skills acquired from the PH1 course level will be included. Topics covered: Pelvic pain diagnoses (anatomic, physiologic, neurologic), patient evaluation (pudendal neuralgia, vulvodynia, vaginismus, painful bladder syndrome, endometriosis, coccydynia, etc), vaginal pelvic floor muscle examination, female sexual response and sexual dysfunction, musculoskeletal impairments related to pelvic pain, non-musculoskeletal pathology, patient care plan development, manual myofascial release techniques, trigger point release techniques, abdominopelvic interventions, clinical application of modalities, external manual therapy techniques, rigid taping techniques, coccyx pain and dysfunction, behavioral intervention strategies (diet, lifestyle, posture).
PH2 Lab: The Lab offers the physical therapy professional to apply knowledge obtained from the Webinar in a face-to-face lab course with hands-on activities including external and internal vaginal examinations. Attendees will work in groups of 2-3 as both clinicians and patients. Attendees must have completed the Webinar prior to attending the Lab course. This lab course offers the physical therapy professional skills immediately applicable in the clinic and includes complete internal vaginal pelvic floor, internal rectal pelvic floor muscle and external abdominopelvic examination and treatment techniques. Clinical decision-making and an integration of skills and knowledge acquired at PH1 Course Level, PH2 BD Webinar, and PH2 PP Webinar will be included. We will cover the following topics during the lab activities: infection control, rectal exam, biofeedback, balloon lecture/hands-on lab, pelvic manual therapy lab, summative skills assessment and more.
PH2BD Learning Objectives
Upon completion of the 2-part course, participants will be able to:
Examination / Evaluation
Describe the anatomic, physiologic and neurological components of defecation and dysfunctional defecation.
Perform an appropriate evaluation of a patient with bowel disorder diagnoses to include fecal and anal incontinence, irritable bowel syndrome, constipation and obstructed defecation.
Demonstrate ability to perform rectal pelvic floor muscle examination for patients with bowel dysfunction.
Assess coccygeal function and joint mechanics for patients with pelvic pain or bowel dysfunction.
Diagnosis / Prognosis
Differentiate between musculoskeletal impairments related to bowel dysfunction and signs and symptoms associated with non-musculoskeletal pathology requiring further medical examination.
Develop functional goals for musculoskeletal impairments identified in patients with bowel disorders based on a systematic interview and examination of the patient.
Demonstrate understanding of colon and anorectal function testing for bowel disorders.
Intervention
Develop an evidence-based and appropriate plan of care for physical therapy intervention of musculoskeletal impairments for patients with bowel dysfunction.
Perform manual myofascial release techniques, trigger point release techniques, coccyx mobilization for the treatment of patients with bowel dysfunction.
Describe and perform appropriate clinical application of surface electromyographic (sEMG) biofeedback for bowel dysfunction diagnoses.
Describe and perform appropriate clinical application of digital rectal biofeedback and rectal balloon biofeedback as an intervention for patients with bowel dysfunction.
Provide behavioral intervention strategies to improve bowel function such as diet, lifestyle changes, and proper toileting techniques and posture.
PH2PP Learning Objectives
Upon completion of the 2-part course, participants will be able to:
Examination / Evaluation
Describe the anatomic, physiologic and neurological components of pelvic pain diagnoses.
Perform an appropriate evaluation of a patient with pelvic pain diagnoses to include pudendal neuralgia, vulvodynia, vaginismus, painful bladder syndrome, endometriosis and coccydynia.
Demonstrate ability to perform a vaginal pelvic floor muscle examination for patients with pelvic pain diagnoses.
Describe the female sexual response and demonstrate understanding of sexual dysfunction.
Diagnosis / Prognosis
Differentiate between musculoskeletal impairments related to pelvic pain and signs and symptoms associated with non-musculoskeletal pathology requiring further medical examination.
Develop functional goals for musculoskeletal impairments identified in patients with pelvic pain based on a systematic interview and examination of the patient.
Intervention
Develop an evidence-based and appropriate plan of care for physical therapy intervention of musculoskeletal impairments for patients with pelvic pain.
Perform manual myofascial release techniques, trigger point release techniques and abdominopelvic interventions for the treatment of patients with pelvic pain.
Describe appropriate clinical application of modalities for pelvic pain diagnoses.
Perform external manual therapy techniques and rigid taping techniques to address pain and dysfunction related to the coccyx.
Provide behavioral intervention strategies to manage pelvic pain including lifestyle changes, diet, and proper posture.
Part 3: Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Level 3 (PH3)
Course Description
To fulfill the PH3 level, one must choose and complete one of the following webinar options. Please note that there is no lab component to any of these webinars.
PH3 Hybrid Webinar: This webinar will provide physical therapy professionals with clinically relevant information and training for the evaluation and intervention of male urinary incontinence and pelvic pain, life span specific considerations, including pediatrics, and individuals with neurological involvement. Topics and skills covered include: pathophysiology, EMG relaxation training, male patient rectal examination, introduction to rehabilitative ultrasound imaging (RUSI), Physical therapy evaluation and intervention of pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) in male patients, pediatric populations, geriatric populations, neurologic patients, changes in the pelvic organs throughout the life cycle, interdisciplinary treatment of pelvic dysfunction, clinical decision-making, and integration of skills acquired at all CAPP Pelvic courses.
PH3 Pediatrics Webinar: This Webinar supports an evidence-based curriculum designed to provide clinically relevant information and training for the examination, evaluation, and intervention of pelvic floor dysfunction as presented in typically-developing pediatric patients. Topics will address early development of bowel and bladder control, toileting training, and typical diagnoses such as urinary incontinence, bedwetting, constipation, fecal incontinence, adolescent conditions, and other considerations relevant to the pediatric population. Transitory information for treatment of the atypically-developing pediatric patient will be presented. Participants will be provided with resources and training for age-specific communication strategies, navigation with family/provider dynamics, and avenues for supporting pediatric pelvic health in the patient’s home, school, recreation, and community. Skills acquired will include evaluation and treatment techniques specific to pediatric patients, including discussion of methods for visualization, palpation, and examination of the pelvic floor. Clinical decision-making capabilities and an integration of skills acquired in prior level coursework will be included. Skills can be immediately applied in your clinic.
PH3 Male Health Webinar: This webinar supports an evidence-based curriculum designed to provide clinically relevant information and training for the examination, evaluation, and intervention of pelvic floor dysfunction as presented in male patients. Topics will address typical diagnoses such as urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, erectile dysfunction, prostate cancer, and other considerations relevant across the life-span. Skills acquired will include examination techniques specific to male patients, including discussion of methods for visualization, palpation, and examination for both external and intra-rectal assessment. Clinical decision-making capabilities and an integration of skills acquired in prior level coursework will be included.
PH3 Neurologic Conditions Webinar: This Webinar supports an evidence-based curriculum designed to provide clinically relevant information and training for the examination, evaluation, and intervention of pelvic floor dysfunction as it presents in patients with neurological diagnoses. Topics will address clinical presentations of bowel, bladder, and sexual dysfunction in patients with diagnoses such as traumatic brain injury, spinal cord and peripheral nerve injuries, neurodegenerative conditions, and autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Information for evaluation and treatment for patients with psychiatric conditions, adult developmental disorders, and older adults will also be included. Clinical decision-making capabilities and an integration of skills acquired in prior level coursework will be included. Skills can be immediately applied in your clinic.
PH3 Hybrid Webinar Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
Examination / Evaluation
Describe the anatomic, physiologic and neurological components of pelvic floor dysfunction diagnoses, including male, pediatric, geriatric, and neurologic populations.
Differentiate between male and female urogenital anatomy and the effect on pelvic floor muscle examination and intervention.
Identify the causes of pediatric and neurological pelvic floor dysfunction diagnoses.
Describe an appropriate evaluation of a male, pediatric, geriatric, and neurologically involved patient with pelvic floor dysfunction using objective measurement skills Diagnosis / Prognosis
Differentiate between musculoskeletal, neurological, and conditions that require medical intervention based on a systematic interview and examination of the patient with pelvic floor dysfunction.
Describe the impairments best suited to rehabilitation ultrasound imaging (RUSI) for the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction.
Develop functional goals for musculoskeletal and neurological impairments based on a systematic interview and examination of the patient with pelvic floor dysfunction. Intervention
Develop an evidence-based plan of care for physical therapy intervention for the male, pediatric, geriatric, or neurologically involved patient with pelvic floor dysfunction.
Lead a patient through a relaxation program utilizing sEMG Biofeedback as a tool for down-regulation of the sympathetic nervous system.
Select appropriate patients with pelvic floor dysfunction that might benefit from the use of RUSI.
PH3 Pediatrics Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
Examination/Evaluation:
Define the anatomical, physiological, and neurological components related to the development and function of the pediatric pelvic floor.
Identify the pathophysiological mechanisms within typical pediatric pelvic floor dysfunction diagnoses.
Describe and develop skills to perform an appropriate systematic interview and examination of a pediatric patient using objective assessment strategies.
Diagnosis/Prognosis:
Differentiate between musculoskeletal, neurological, and other conditions that require intervention based on the results of examination.
Describe the diagnoses and impairments best suited to physical therapy intervention for the treatment of pediatric pelvic floor dysfunction.
Identify and utilize prognostic indicators including, but not limited to, objective data and functional outcome measures to aid in course of physical therapy intervention.
Intervention:
Acquire resources and training for age-specific communication strategies, navigation with family/provider dynamics, and avenues for supporting pediatric pelvic health in the patient’s home, school, recreation, and community.
Develop an evidence-based plan of care, including appropriate intervention, to address multiple components related to pediatric patients with pelvic floor dysfunction.
Identify intervention strategies including, but not limited to, age-specific communication, manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, behavioral intervention, intervention through play, and appropriate clinical application of modalities as supported by evidence in treatment of pediatric patients.
PH3 Male Health Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
Examination / Evaluation
Define the anatomical, physiological, and neurological components related to the male pelvic floor.
Differentiate between male and female urogenital anatomy and the effect on pelvic floor muscle examination and intervention.
Identify the pathophysiological mechanisms within male pelvic floor dysfunction diagnoses.
Describe and develop skills to perform an appropriate systematic interview and examination of a male patient using objective assessment strategies.
Diagnosis/Prognosis:
Differentiate between musculoskeletal, neurological, and other conditions that require intervention based on the results of examination.
Describe the diagnoses and impairments best suited to physical therapy intervention for the treatment of male pelvic floor dysfunction.
Identify and utilize prognostic indicators including, but not limited to, objective data and functional outcome measures to aid in course of physical therapy intervention.
Intervention:
Develop an evidence-based plan of care, including appropriate intervention, to address multiple components related to male patients with pelvic floor dysfunction.
Identify intervention strategies including, but not limited to, manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, behavioral intervention, and appropriate clinical application of modalities as supported by evidence in treatment of male patients.
PH3 Neurologic Conditions Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
Examination/Evaluation:
Define and identify the pathophysiological mechanisms of pelvic floor dysfunction that occurs within patients with neurological diagnoses, psychiatric and developmental disorders, and older adult patients.
Describe and develop skills to perform an appropriate systematic interview and examination of patients with the above diagnoses using objective assessment strategies.
Diagnosis/Prognosis:
Differentiate between musculoskeletal, neurological, and other conditions that require intervention based on the results of examination.
Describe the diagnoses and impairments best suited to physical therapy intervention for the treatment of neurological pelvic floor dysfunction.
Identify and utilize prognostic indicators including, but not limited to, objective data and functional outcome measures to aid in course of physical therapy intervention. Intervention:
Develop an evidence-based plan of care, including appropriate intervention, to address multiple components related to patients with the above diagnoses.
Identify intervention strategies including, but not limited to, manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, behavioral intervention, and appropriate clinical application of modalities as supported by evidence in treatment of patients with neurological diagnoses.