Mobilization of the Cervical and Thoracic Spine and Ribs

At the completion of this seminar, the participant will be able to:

• Correctly describe the normal and abnormal biomechanics of the vertebrae in the upper cervical spine (OA, AA), lower cervical Spine (C2-7), thoracic spine (T1-I2) and ribs
• Confidently describe 5 specific spinal and rib anatomical structures
• Correctly describe the neurophysiological mechanism behind muscle energy technique (MET)
• Correctly and confidently identify 3 key components necessary to administer proper MET
• Through the discussion of relevant evidence based research, support the use of METs/mobilization and manipulations to the cervical and thoracic spine and ribs for specific diagnoses
• Through the use of 3 varying case studies, correctly demonstrate a systematic approach for the treatment progression through the cervical and thoracic spine and rib complex
• Demonstrate the appropriate force direction for 5 specific MET/mobilization and manipulations

At the completion of this seminar, the participant will be able to:

• Correctly describe the normal and abnormal biomechanics of the vertebrae in the upper cervical spine (OA, AA), lower cervical Spine (C2-7), thoracic spine (T1-I2) and ribs
• Confidently describe 5 specific spinal and rib anatomical structures
• Correctly describe the neurophysiological mechanism behind muscle energy technique (MET)
• Correctly and confidently identify 3 key components necessary to administer proper MET
• Through the discussion of relevant evidence based research, support the use of METs/mobilization and manipulations to the cervical and thoracic spine and ribs for specific diagnoses
• Through the use of 3 varying case studies, correctly demonstrate a systematic approach for the treatment progression through the cervical and thoracic spine and rib complex
• Demonstrate the appropriate force direction for 5 specific MET/mobilization and manipulations

Approved for 16.5 hours for PTs and PTAs: AL, AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, MD, MA, MI, MN (16 hours in MN), MO, MT, NE, NH, NJ, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, UT, VT, VA, WA, WI, WY

Approved for 16 hours for OTs and OTAs: AL, AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, ID, IN, IA, KS, MA, MI, MN, MS, MO, NE, NV, NH, ND, OR, PA, SC, SD, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY

Approved for 16 Category A hours by the BOC for Athletic Trainers.

If you do not see your state listed above, please contact us at info@glseminars.com for more information.

Click here for the state and discipline approval list for all courses.

Who should take this course?
This course is designed for PTs, PTAs, OTs, OTAs, and Athletic Trainers who want a structured, evidence-based approach to treating the cervical spine, thoracic spine, and ribs. It’s especially valuable if you want to expand your treatment toolbox for spine and shoulder patients.

What treatment techniques will I learn?
You’ll practice Muscle Energy Techniques (MET), direct joint articulations, and mobilization/manipulation strategies specific to the cervical and thoracic spine and rib complex.

Does this course cover rib dysfunctions?
Yes. Rib involvement is often overlooked, and this course provides dedicated lab time for structural rib dysfunctions so you can confidently screen and treat these cases.

Is the course mostly lecture or hands-on?
Like the majority of GLS courses, it is at least 75% hands-on lab. Each technique is practiced multiple times to ensure comfort and confidence before you leave.

Will I learn how to apply these techniques in a systematic way?
Yes. Through case studies and treatment progressions, you’ll gain a repeatable framework for assessing and treating dysfunction in the cervical spine, thoracic spine, and rib cage.

Do I need prior experience with spinal mobilization before taking this course?
No prior specialization is required—this course provides a straightforward but comprehensive foundation. However, a basic understanding of spine anatomy and general mobilization concepts will help you maximize your learning.

Will I be able to use these techniques immediately in the clinic?
Yes. Participants leave this course with practical, evidence-based skills they can confidently implement with patients on Monday morning.

Does this course count toward the CIMT certification?
Yes. Mobilization of the Cervical and Thoracic Spine and Ribs is one of the nine prerequisite courses needed to enroll in Synthesis, the manual therapy certification course.

What course materials are included?
Participants receive a full printed course manual with detailed anatomical overlays, a physical cheat sheet for quick clinical reference, and a video cheat sheet emailed after the course to reinforce the techniques. You’ll also receive a post-course follow-up video from the instructor to help integrate what you’ve learned into your clinical practice.

What should I wear to the course?
We recommend comfortable athletic clothing that allows you to move freely during labs. Please also make sure the T-Spine is visible under your shirt so your lab partners can clearly palpate and practice techniques.