Certificate in
Diagnosis and Treatment of Movement System Impairment Syndromes
This course focuses on the Movement System Impairments (MSI) of the shoulder, as described by Prof. Shirley Sahrmann. The MSI approach provides a framework for assessing and treating musculoskeletal conditions by identifying and addressing underlying movement impairments. This approach emphasizes the role of everyday activities in contributing to the development of movement impairments and the importance of understanding the intricate interactions between different muscles and joints involved in movement.
Prof. Sahrmann’s work has highlighted the need to move beyond traditional diagnostic labels such as rotator cuff tear or frozen shoulder, and instead focus on identifying the specific impairments that are contributing to a patient’s symptoms. This course will provide an overview of the key MSI concepts related to the shoulder, including muscle imbalances, joint mobility restrictions, and faulty movement patterns.
Through a combination of lectures, case studies, and hands-on sessions, participants will learn how to apply the MSI approach to their clinical practice. This will include practical techniques for assessing shoulder movement and function, as well as strategies for developing targeted treatment plans that address the underlying impairments. By the end of the course, participants will have a deeper understanding of the Movement System Impairments of the shoulder, and be equipped with new tools and techniques to help their patients achieve optimal function and mobility.
Diagnosis and Treatment of the Movement System Impairment Syndromes:
Upper quarter – Shoulder

Timetable
08:30 – 9:00: Didactic lecture
Introduction to the Movement System Impairments (MSI)
09:00 – 10:00: Didactic lecture
MSI of the Scapula
10:00 – 10:30: Break
10:30 – 11:30: Didactic lecture & case presentation
Assessment of the MSI and MSI informed clinical reasoning
11:30 – 12:30: Didactic lecture & live demonstration
MSI assessment
12:30 – 13:30: Lunch
13:30 – 14:30: Didactic lecture & live demo
MSI syndromes of the scapula: downward rotation and depression
14:30 – 15:30: Practical training
Key tests and signs for the scapular MSI syndromes
15:30 – 16:00: Break
16:00 – 17:00: Didactic lecture & live demo
MSI syndromes of the scapula: downward rotation and depression
17:00 – 18:00 Practical training
Key tests and signs for the scapular MSI syndromes
08:30 – 9:00: Didactic lecture
MSI syndromes of the humerus: anterior glide, superior glide, medial rotation of the humerus
09:00 – 10:00: Didactic lecture & live demo
Key tests and signs for the humeral MSI syndromes
10:00 – 10:30: Break
10:30 – 12:30: Practical training
Key tests and signs for the humeral MSI syndromes
12:30 – 13:30: Lunch
13:30 – 15:30: Practical training
Work in small groups, complete MSI assessment for scapular and humeral MSI syndromes and definition of a treatment plan
15:30 – 16:00: Break
16:00 – 17:30: Guided case discussions
Group presentations
17:30 – 18:00 Didactic lecture
Final remarks and concepts consolidation
18:00 – 18:30: Certificate & media
Meet the instructor
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Roberto Meroni
Prof. Meroni holds a PhD in Neuroscience and is an expert clinician with extensive experience in research methods and clinical motion capture. He engages in yearly Movement System Education retreats organized by Prof. Shirley Sahrmann together with faculty members of the Washington University in St. Louis and international experts. Over his career he has published numerous manuscripts in peer-reviewed international journals and developed a deep understanding of the Human Movement System.