Free Preview
Enjoy this free preview of Amy demonstrating some manual therapy techniques for the thoracic spine.
Learning Objectives
- Apply evidence-based manual therapy (MT) techniques, including thrust and non-thrust mobilisations, to improve spine mobility and manage pain in patients with musculoskeletal conditions for the lumbar, thoracic and cervical spine segments.
- Describe patient movement patterns to identify prior to implementing MT techniques.
- Identify relevant MT interventions across the cervical thoracic and lumbar regions to treat regional musculoskeletal conditions.
- Demonstrate proper handling and body mechanics during manual therapy techniques to ensure patient and clinician safety during treatment.
Lumbar Spine
Learn manual therapy treatment techniques for the lumbar spine.
Thoracic Spine
Learn techniques directed at the thoracic spine and how they can also be helpful in treating neck and shoulder pain.
Cervical Spine
Perform manual therapy on the cervical spine with confidence.
Dr Amy McDevitt
PhD | DPT | OCS | FAAOMPT
Amy McDevitt is an accomplished professional in the field of physical therapy. She earned a bachelor of science degree in biology from Fairfield University in 1996 as well as a master of physical therapy degree in 2000 and a tDPT degree in 2004, both from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. Demonstrating a passion for advancing knowledge, Dr. McDevitt successfully completed her PhD through the University of Newcastle in Australia in 2023. Since 2000, Dr. McDevitt has dedicated herself to the practice of physical therapy and currently practices at the University of Colorado Health, CU Sports Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation. She has garnered expertise in orthopedics and holds the designation of board-certified orthopaedic clinical specialist, and she is recognized as a fellow within the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (AAOMPT). Dr. McDevitt is an associate professor in the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine. In this capacity, she teaches and mentors entry-level doctor of physical therapy students, sharing her knowledge and passion with the next generation of practitioners.
Beyond her teaching responsibilities, Dr. McDevitt remains actively engaged in research endeavors at the University of Colorado. Her research interests lie in musculoskeletal pain, mechanisms of manual therapy, shoulder pain, regional interdependence, and the assessment of clinical reasoning in physical therapy students. Along with her coinvestigators, she was the 2013 winner of the Rose Excellence in Research Award and was awarded the Cardon Rehab research grant three times through the AAOMPT. Through her research contributions, she aims to contribute to the collective knowledge in the field of physical therapy.
Dr. McDevitt remains committed to her professional development and maintains active membership in both the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and the AAOMPT. These professional affiliations provide her with opportunities to stay current with the latest industry advancements, engage in meaningful collaborations, and contribute to the advancement of physical therapist practice.
In summary, Dr. McDevitt’s contributions to patient care, education, and research are driven by a deep sense of humility and a genuine desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others.
Bryce Zaffarano
DPT | OSC | FAAOMPT
Bryce splits his time between academic and clinical roles. Academically he is involved with the University of Colorado in both their residential and hybrid program, while focusing on musculoskeletal rehabilitation management principles, simulated learning environments, and exercise prescription.
Clinically, he works within an outpatient hospital setting helping treat complex patients amongst interdisciplinary teams where he assists in system-wide education, mentorship, and orthopedic residency education.
