Our Story
The shoulder is one of the most complex, dynamic and misunderstood joints in the anatomical chain and continues to challenge every group in the rehabilitation team.
ActiveShoulder Clinical Seminars (ASCS) was founded in 2014 and born from a desire to teach the most comprehensive, evidence informed and clinically relevant information to physiotherapists and allied health professionals. We offer a teaching program that moves well beyond university training and offers clinically tested methods for shoulder rehabilitation and management.
Two complementary teaching programs are offered:
- Mastering the shoulder serieStM
Our complete teaching program comprising three levels of training (2 days each) incorporating all aspects of shoulder rehabilitation. Certifications are available after completion of the Level II (Advanced) or Level III (Specialty) courses.
- ACTIVESHOULDER® MASTERCLASSes
Our one-day Masterclasses on critical areas of shoulder rehabilitation combining lecture, practical and case study teachings. Key updates, in-depth topics and chose the topics that are right for you!
Mastering the Shoulder Series
Our Mastering the Shoulder Series has been created to advance professional care through accurate examination, integrating imaging findings, treatment plans based on examination findings and best use of multi-disciplinary options. Simply put, we want to offer the best teaching program that provides logical and evidence informed solutions.
Each course covers a variety of shoulder rehabilitation instruction - from essential to specialty topics. We look at comprehensive physical rehabilitation, non-surgical & surgical options for a range of shoulder disorders.
Mastering the Shoulder : Level I
THE ESSENTIAL COURSE
Our first course covers comprehensive examination and differentials of the shoulder together with key treatment strategies for many common shoulder disorders. Accelerated rehabilitation is taught for adhesive capsulitis (two-three months - 95% movement recovery independent of phase), OA exercise routines, progressive exercise training for tendinopathy disorders, specific protocols for cuff tears (size and position dependent) and therapeutic techniques for preventing post AC joint separation pain. View the Level I course page.
Mastering the Shoulder : Level II
THE ADVANCED COURSE
Our second course continues with the ‘harder to treat’ shoulder topics - a must for any practitioner wanting to offer comprehensive clinical care for shoulder disorders. We teach more complex examination techniques, key metrics for improving your diagnostic accuracy, shoulder replacements rehabilitation (maximize their potential) and management of anterior shoulder instability. Day two of this course covers two complex topics - calcific tendinopathy and scapula dyskinesias. Both of these subjects require extensive clinical experience and a broad understanding of the clinical decision making necessary to provide successful treatment. View the Level II course page.
We offer the option for Advanced certification after completion of the Advanced course (CASP).
Mastering the Shoulder : Level III
THE SPECIALTY COURSE
Our final course focuses on the required knowledge to offer comprehensive upper quadrant recovery with an emphasis on therapeutic cervical spine exercise, integrating scapula control and adding several specialty shoulder topics. We teach a range of cervical spine exercise progressions from introductory drills through to high level movement and strength training. A critical review of manual therapy options and post surgical protocols for the shoulder are undertaken. We highlight difficult neurovascular disorders of the shoulder as well as the common pathologies related to many athletic movements or sports. Three case study challenges are included to help refine your ability to manage and treat i) chronic shoulder, ii) complex shoulder and iii) whole quadrant disorders. View the Level III course page. View the Level III course page.
We offer the option for Specialty certification after completion of the Specialty course (CSSP).
ACTIVESHOULDER Masterclasses
Our Masterclass series has been created to advance professional care by creating an in-depth focus on particular challenges or critical components of shoulder rehabilitation. Two Masterclass topics are offered on a yearly basis at select locations.
These Masterclasses are ideal for anyone seeking an intensive single day course on key topics of the shoulder. Ideal for clinicians wanting to review their current practice, enhance their skills or expand on key topics from the Mastering the Shoulder courses.
Expert Examination Masterclass
Special Tests, Diagnostic Bets and Complex Cases
Expert Examination - is for all physiotherapists and rehabilitation professionals seeking an in-depth look at shoulder examination. Why? The better the assessment, the easier and more specific the treatment.
We prefer a pathoanatomical approach leading to specific treatment guidelines and better patient outcomes. It may be tempting to create broad diagnostic groups such as the weak shoulder, unstable or stiff shoulder - but non-specific diagnoses lead to non-specific results. There are many gaps in this approach - from treating acute inflammatory bursitis through to PMR, partial thickness cuff tears through to calcific tendinopathy. Effective shoulder rehabilitation depends on a great assessment of the patient.
This Masterclass will teach a comprehensive and efficient screening examination for the shoulder, review our recommended special tests, what they mean and how to build accurate test combinations.
We will also cover what to do with your imaging results and recognizing indications for medical and / or surgical referral. View the Expert Examination Masterclass page.
The Post Surgical Shoulder Masterclass
Reconstructions, Repairs & Replacements
The Post Surgical Shoulder - offers a critical update for all physiotherapists and rehabilitation professionals involved in post surgical care. Surgical approaches for dislocations, cuff repairs and joint replacement have changed significantly in the past 5 years.
A clear understanding of the surgeon’s needs balanced against ideal patient outcomes are essential in crafting a safe and effective post surgical program for your patient. Deliver current evidence informed care, avoid the complications and maximize your post surgical outcomes!
This Masterclass will address many concerns and provide clear guidelines based on current evidence and extensive clinical experience. Avoid post surgical complications, streamline your rehabilitation tasks and achieve best outcomes for your patient. View the Post Surgical Shoulder Masterclass page.