If patients are not one-dimensional, how can a single course of therapy deliver healing? It can’t. That realization brought great minds in medicine and physical therapy together to create a powerful partnership for patient care.
The International Academy of Orthopedic Medicine (IAOM) was founded in 1978 by pioneering physicians and physical therapists in Europe and the UK who shared a vision that teamwork could transform orthopedic care for patients with non-surgical problems. The group organized dynamic courses, workshops, and lectures to explore an advanced method of clinical examination that employed selective tissue testing (via compression or tension), followed by establishing the most efficient treatment (of injection and/or manual therapy/exercise) based on specific patient selection.
Pain: a success story
The philosophy of the International Academy of Orthopedic Medicine continues to support a systematic approach to clinical diagnosis today, with the foundational paradigm that each structure of the musculoskeletal system has individual properties that do not change and are unique to that structure. Thus, when that structure is injured, the trauma causes pain in a certain region, often resulting in misleading symptoms in other locations. We have learned, however, that specific tests will evoke pain in a consistent pattern that clinicians can use to accurately diagnose their patients. Understanding pain as a diagnostic tool empowers both the clinician and the patient to take control of the healing process.
Healing without borders
In 1988, the International Academy of Orthopedic Medicine expanded to the USA, (IAOM-US), where research and instruction continue to build on the foundation of establishing an accurate clinical diagnosis that empowers clinicians to create the most effective plan of care. Taught at strategic locations throughout the USA, courses sell out quickly as the industry evolves and word of their demonstrated benefits spreads. Annual national and international forums draw bigger crowds each year, and cutting-edge techniques that improve patient outcomes continue to emerge. Fueled by this incredible momentum, the IAOM-US will bring the methodology of clinical practice to Chile and India in 2010.
Science + human interest
We teach healthcare professionals to go beyond orthopedic manual therapy, to reach past pain and treat people. IAOM courses give clinicians the tools they need to develop evidence-based treatment plans to manage or overcome pain and increase mobility, but it doesn't end there. Using biopsychosocial and sensorimotor control models, we help visionary healthcare professionals to move patients further down the road to recovery - toward sustainable health and active, joyful living.
Help for the healer
What makes the IAOM different? In short, we feel your pain. We understand the unique challenges you face, and we are dedicated to providing solutions that enable you to grow and flourish in your practice. We'll help you navigate the sea of literature by synthesizing the most critical information and providing it to you in a simple, dynamic format – so you can immediately and effectively apply it. More than a provider of continuing education, we are balm for today's busy healer—a strategic partner you can count on for the life of your career.
Evolving together
As the industry continues to evolve, the IAOM is committed to keeping healthcare professionals ahead of the curve through certification opportunities, interactive courses on emerging techniques, and a robust menu of learning aides including textbooks, DVDs, and Healers Edge—a compelling, click-able newsletter available to healthcare professionals worldwide. We'll help you organize a wealth of must-have tools, so you're always on top of your game. We share your passion for providing patients with differentiated care and optimized outcomes—imagine what we can do together!
