APTEI: Cervical & Thoracic Spine Course - Ontario Physiotherapy Association

This course will enable you to gain a practical knowledge of the possible anatomical and psychosocial factors leading to persistent neck, thoracic region and rib cage pain. Once the pain classification is identified, optimal management optins of acute and persistent cervical whiplash associated disorders (WAD) will be clearly reviewed.

So what does the evidence (as of 2026) thus far tell us regarding optimal management of WADs?

Patient re-assurance ++
Pain Education
Maintenance of activity levels, but not too much
General exercise program
Specific exercise programs focusing on neck and shoulders
Encouragement of coping strategies
Simple analgesics

Although the research papers make the management sound so simple, we all know it is not so easy. This course will help you become more confident in your treatment of acute and persistent neck and thoracic spine pain knowing that you’re providing the best treatments based on the best available evidence.

View my video on WAD

View my video on one reason for delayed recovery in WADs