Description: Despite comprehensive rehabilitation and performance programs, tactical athletes and active populations often suffer from recurring back pain. Traditional approaches may overlook core contributors such as dysfunctional breathing, impaired intra-abdominal pressure regulation, and pelvic floor dysfunction. This session addresses these gaps and equips athletic trainers with the clinical insight and communication tools to identify, explain, and treat these complex cases, especially when symptoms cross into “awkward” or sensitive territory. Participants will learn to normalize difficult conversations and integrate holistic bracing strategies into their evaluation and intervention plans.

Objectives: Identify overlooked biomechanical and physiological contributors to persistent back pain, including the role of pressure regulation, diaphragmatic function, and pelvic floor coordination., Choose effective cueing strategies for breathing and bracing patterns that promote intra-abdominal pressure and lumbar stability., Recognize when red flags or "systems" symptoms (e.g., urinary leakage, GI distress, sexual dysfunction) warrant referral or modification of care., Apply strategies for navigating sensitive health discussions to improve patient compliance, outcomes, and long-term function.

Presenter(s): Brittany Braun, DAT, ATC, CSCS; Michelle Vail PT, DPT, ATC

Status: Active

Activity Difficulty Level: Mastery

Domains:

• Critical Incident Management
• Risk Reduction
• Wellness and Health Literacy
• Specialty (Orthopedic): Medical Knowledge
• Therapeutic Intervention

Format: Virtual Asynchronous - On Demand

Dual Credentials and JA: Athletic Trainers Only

Start Date & Time: 07/30/2026 07:00 PM

End Date & Time: 12/31/2026 06:00 PM

Cost: $499.00