Differential Diagnosis & Treatment of Lower Back Pain Using an Integrative Approach with Dr. Samantha Hodges, DAOM, LAc

*In-Person Course Sunday August 28th, 2022 9am - 6pm Presidio Sports Basement, San Francisco*

Students will learn how to identify low back pathologies using orthopedic and neurological examinations in addition to identifying the TCM pattern. This course will cover basic MRI terminology, when to refer out, how to safely needle the back, basic myofascial techniques, and corrective exercises. The students will leave the class with tools they can utilize immediately in their practice. There will be 4 hours of lecture and 4 hours of practical hands on practice.

Space is LIMITED!

Early Bird Rate is $200 until  7/28/22 // Regular rate is $260

Learning Objectives:

1. Students will review anatomy of the lumbar spine. 
2. Students will learn red flags in which a referral is necessary.
3. Student will learn pathologies of low back pain from a Western Medical perspective.Students will learn orthopedic and neurological exams specific to the lumbar spine. 
4. Students will learn common terminology on MRI reports.
5. Students will learn common TCM diagnosis that correspond to low back pain.Students will learn needling techniques for addressing different types of low back pain. This will include safe needling guidelines for needling the HTJJ and areas of the low back.
6. Students will learn Tui Na techniques for low back pain.
7. Students will learn basic mobility and strengthen exercises for different types of low back pain. Students will also learn postural corrections 

About the presenter - Dr. Samantha Hodges, DAOM, LAc

"I am Samantha, your acupuncturist. In 2013, I received a Masters of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine from the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine (ACTCM). While completing my masters, I studied a variety of massage modalities and became certified in tui na. In the picture to the left, I am with Dr. Li, my translator, and another international student from Singapore at the Second Affiliated Hospital at Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Guangzhou China. I completed the last clinical hours of my doctorate here in December 2019. As of 2020, I have completed the requirements of Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (DAOM).

I compete in trail runs, triathlons, and equestrian sports. In graduate school, while competing, I suffered some common sports injuries and was treated at the student clinic. It blew me away at how drastically the pain was reduced and how the healing time was nearly cut in half with acupuncture. This was one of many moments I had in school where I fell deeply in love with the medicine. I witnessed phenomenal results while interning at CPMC Stroke Clinic. Acupuncture helped those recovering from a stroke, traumatic brain injury, and other debilitating injuries.

A beloved friend/mentor of mine always told me, “Prevention is cheaper than the cure.” I take this to heart in educating and treating my patients. I helped them work thru injury and avoiding invasive cortisone shots, pain medications, and surgery. Lifestyle modifications play a huge role in overcoming dis-ease. 

I use an integrative approach. I practice functional medicine and order a variety of tests such as complete blood panels, female hormones, heavy metals, leaky gut, and whatever test I feel will best help us make a treatment plan. I keep up to date with recent peer-reviewed studies and will be a student forever. I realize there is no “one size fits all” treatment plan. I take my time with my patients and do my best to treat their dis-ease and prevent it from returning. "

Refund Policy: Refunds will be given in full up to 7 days prior to course launch, within 7 days refunds will be given at a reduced rate of 75%, NO refunds once course has begun or after.