PRE & POST CONGRESS WORKSHOPS
PRE CONGRESS MORNING
Sunday, Aug 10
9 AM -12 PM
PRE CONGRESS AFTERNOON
Sunday, Aug 10
2-5 PM
POST
CONGRESS
Thursday, 14 August
12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
PRE CONGRESS MORNING WORKSHOPS
10 August (Sunday)
9 AM - 12 PM
OPTION 1
JILL MILLER
Topic: Body By Breath: An Experiential Anatomy Tour of Fascial Interfaces
Your breath’s motion is your body’s primal life rhythm. Your breath shapes your body as well as your mental “shape” and outlook. This session gives you newfound ways of harvesting the muscular, fascial and neural power that drive respiration and put you in the driver’s seat of self-regulation.
In this workshop you’ll:
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Visit three breath zones within your body to unleash a cascade of regeneration and rest
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Tour the vast landscape of breath/fascia interfaces
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Perform gentle tool based self-myofascial release to illuminate the vagus nerve and ignite a symphony of relaxation
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Learn novel ways to self-administer spinal decompression to reduce pain and transform posture
Be a body by breath pioneer and explore the science and practice of physical and emotional resilience.
PS: Please bring your own yoga/exercise mat.
About Presenter
Jill Miller, C-IAYT, ERYT, YA-CEP fascia expert, has 30 years of corrective movement expertise that forges links between the worlds of yoga, massage, athletics, and pain management. Her signature self-care fitness programs,
Yoga Tune Up® and The Roll Model® are found at gyms, yoga studios, hospitals, athletic training facilities and corporations worldwide. Jill is the former anatomy columnist for Yoga Journal, has been featured in New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Shape, Women’s Health, O, the Today Show, and is a contributing expert on the Oprah Winfrey Network. She is the author of The Roll Model: A Step-by-Step Guide to Erase Pain, Improve Mobility, and Live Better in Your Body, and a contributing author on self-myofascial release in the text book Fascia, Function and Medical Applications. Her work is also included in Safe and Sound by Stephen Porges PhD. She is the creator of dozens of instructional DVDs, including Rolling Along the Anatomy Trains with Tom Myers, Walking Well with Katy Bowman, Roll Into HIIT with Dr. Jen Fraboni and Treat While You Train with Kelly Starrett DPT. Her new bestselling book is, Body by Breath: The Science and Practice of Physical and Emotional Resilience. She lives in LA with her husband, 2 kids and rescue dog. www.tuneupfitness.com
PRE CONGRESS MORNING OPTION 1
Sunday, Aug 10
9 AM -12 PM
OPTION 2
SHANNON GOOSSEN
Topic: Functional NeuroMyoFascial Techniques: The Mover Stabilizer Model & Method™
In this 3 hour workshop Shannon Goossen, AP, LMT, CMTPT will introduce an overlooked source of NeuroMyoFascial Dysfunction & Pain, and how therapists can quickly restore smooth, efficient, and effortless movement. Rather than treating the symptom or adaptation that resulted from an injury, surgery, myofascial dysfunction, central or peripheral neurological problems, (what all professions were trained to do) you will be shown what the published research says, and how any physician, therapists, athletes, even non-practitioners can easily apply these techniques.
Sir Charles Scott Sherrington gave us the answer a century ago: “The Final Common Path” is movement. Once this rule is applied along with the current research, we can leverage the interactivity between the central nervous system (brain & spinal cord), peripheral nervous system, MyoFascial network, adaptation & aberrant movement. This introductory class is designed to demystify the CNS/PNS in relation to the NeuroMyoFascial system and make you excited about the nervous system. It does not matter what your specialty is…simply add these principles and techniques to your current preferred therapeutic model.
You will learn:
■ How the BRILLIANT efficiency of the brain encourages INSTANT adaptive “solutions” that result in “functional” dysfunction ■ How injured muscles LEARN “the right wrong thing” that lead to ongoing dysfunctional adaptations so we can continue to function unless pain STOPS US ■ To get the story behind the story... something most were never taught ■ How and why the miraculous NeuroMyoFascial system REALLY holds & releases pain patterns, postural compensations, old physical trauma and emotions Hands-On Experience: Restore functional movement by activating key Mover & Stabilizer muscles with dynamic easy to learn manual therapy techniques ■ GRAVITY is your friend: Learn to access this “assistant therapist” for immediate results ■ Stabilizers! The muscle function you never learned in school, and isn’t in the text books: Learn how to reactivate these core muscles and instantly restore biomechanical ease ■ Once you are STABLE... You can MOVE! Understand the function of Movers: Learn the techniques to release & re-educate these key activation muscles ■ Learn the fascinating relationship between agonist and antagonist muscles: You’ve seen this in your practice, but what does it really mean? You’ll get it, as soon as you see it! ■ Learn the most practical, functional and easy to apply treatment in motion. Once you see the Walking ReleaseTM you’ll wonder why we all missed this obvious instant way to address aberrant movement ABOUT PRESENTER Your Instructor, Shannon Goossen AP, BA, LMT, CMTPT Shannon is a licensed Acupuncture Physician, Massage Therapist and Certified Myofascial Trigger Point Therapist. She is a recognized national expert in treating myofascial pain and solving complex neuropathic pain problems using novel techniques incorporating microcurrent and bioenergetic devices. Shannon teaches nationally and offers private clinical in-services. Shannon has also trained in Functional Medicine and completed the AFMCP. Her many innovations include the development of the Walking Release™ and Functional NeuroMyoFascial Techniques: The Mover-Stabilizer model & method™ She is President of Comprehensive Myofascial Therapy Associates and offers multiple online training courses through FrequeciesThatMEND.com. She is a contributing writer for two textbooks and has had several articles published on spinal disorders, myofascial pain, clinical evaluation and is an award winning presenter on microcurrent. In 2018 she was the lead instructor and trainer for a 3 1/2 month demonstration study for the DoD to evaluate the efficacy of incorporating microcurrent and bioenergetic devices in hospital outpatient clinics at Nellis AFB for their chronic pain cases. In the last 6 years she has taught both live and remote at Nellis, Eglin and Scott AFB supporting the Nellis Integrative Medicine Clinic research projects. Last year, the research paper for the 3 year IRB study from Nellis IMC was published in Advances in Integrative Medicine. In the last 5 years, Shannon has been an invited presenter for Richard Neimtzow, MD RAMP course, US NAC, Walter Reed AIM and PainCare Skills. Recently, Shannon served in the Healing Hut for for DoD Warrior Games and then was selected as the Healing Hut Lead Therapist for Invictus Games 2025 and US Warrior Games where her Frequency Specific Microcurrent protocols/algorithms, Walking Release™ and Functional NeuroMyoFascial Techniques have been implemented to quickly treat athletes, their family and friends accompanying them. Shannon does private training and clinic in-services for MDs, DOs, DC’s, LAc’s, PT’s, OT’s, LMT’s, and Pilates Instructors so practitioners can incorporate these techniques to specifically match specific clinical model and staff skill sets.
PRE CONGRESS MORNING OPTION 2
Sunday, Aug 10
9 AM -12 PM
PRE CONGRESS AFTERNOON WORKSHOPS
10 August (Sunday)
2PM - 5PM
OPTION 1
ERIC FRANKLIN
Topic: Power & Flow: Fascial Imagery & Embodiment for a Strong, Resilient Pelvic Floor
In this workshop, we’ll explore how to train your pelvis and pelvic floor effectively for far-reaching effects throughout the body. The fascia of the pelvis demands dynamic training just like the rest of the body, with power, flexibility, coordination and overall well-being inextricably linked. Understanding the design and function of pelvic floor fascia is vital for enhanced movement and lasting pelvic health. Luckily, dynamic imagery is an effective tool that makes this embodiment work fun - and in this workshop we'll learn how to apply it.
The vital knowledge and exercises taught in this workshop will equip you with the tools to strengthen this key area of the body as well as tackle a range of common problems.
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Key exercises for a flexible and powerful pelvic floor
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How to apply imagery and creative cueing to your pelvic floor training
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How to optimally coordinate your muscles, fascia and joints during pelvic floor training
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How sacral nutation and pelvic half movement contribute to whole body alignment
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How to boost the effectiveness of pelvic floor training with your breathing
About Presenter
Eric Franklin – Franklin Method® Eric is the founder of the Franklin Method® Institute, and he has spent decades developing and optimizing the Franklin Method® – a ground-breaking training method designed to unlock the body’s full potential through exercise, imagery and anatomical understanding. A qualified sports scientist, dancer, choreographer and movement pedagogue, Eric Franklin is regarded as an expert in imagery-based movement pedagogy and Dynamic Neurocognitive Imagery (DNI)™. During his long career, Eric has worked as a guest lecturer at the University of Vienna, Juilliard School New York, NYU, Royal Ballet School London and he is also a member of the International Association of Dance Medicine and Science (IADMS).
PRE CONGRESS AFTERNOON - OPTION 1
Sunday, Aug 10
2-5 PM
OPTION 2
SUE HITZMANN
Topic: The MELT Method Experience: Advancing Fascial Health Through Self-Care Science and Innovation
Discover the transformative power of self-care with the MELT Method at this exclusive 3-hour pre-conference workshop. Dive deep into the science of fascia and its vital role in overall health, as you learn innovative techniques designed to rehydrate and restore fluid flow in the fascial matrix and boost neurological efficiency and regulation.
Guided by the 4Rs principle of MELT – Reconnect, Rebalance, Rehydrate, and Release, this session offers a hands-on experience using the MELT soft therapy ball and the signature soft roller. Participants will explore targeted hand, foot, and body treatments that not only alleviate stuck stress in fascia but also enhance flexibility, alignment, and wellbeing.
Empower yourself with actionable self-care strategies and leave with practical knowledge to elevate your fascia-focused practice. Whether you're a seasoned therapist or simply curious about improving your health, this session promises to unlock new insights into the art and science of self-care.
About Presenter
Sue Hitzmann is an internationally recognized educator in neurofascial science and research,
a manual therapist, and an exercise physiologist. She is also a founding member of the Fascia Research Society. But she’s best known as the creator of the MELT Method—an innovative self-care practice that has revolutionized the approach to pain management and wellness. Her groundbreaking work became the topic of her New York Times best-selling book, The MELT Method (2013), and its follow-up bestseller, MELT Performance (2019). Sue is often described as a pioneer in the study of fascia, a crucial component of our body's inner tissue system. Fascia as a system is a web-like substance that interpenetrates and supports muscles, bones, organs, cells, and nerves. It plays a vital role in our overall movement, flexibility, and stability, yet it also plays a crucial role in our mental wellbeing and immune system. This is often overlooked in traditional health and fitness approaches. Sue's work focuses on educating people about the importance of fascia in maintaining a pain-free and healthy body. Health and wellness are universally relevant topics, yet many struggle to incorporate self-care into their daily lives, often due to time constraints or lack of motivation. Sue's high-energy keynote presentations help audiences look inward to recognize their true healing potential. With decades of research in self-care and biohacking, she simplifies the complexities of achieving lifelong wellbeing, redefining health and fitness to include mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical strategies. Sue guides audiences through the maze of misinformation, myths, and emerging trends in wellness, reshaping traditional beliefs about aging and longevity. Her podcast, Anatomical Gangster, showcases innovators who help awaken listeners to a new approach of living a resilient life, deepening their connection to the human experience. As a repeat guest expert on national television programs including Nightline, Regis and Kelly, The Dr. Oz Show, Good Morning America, Home & Family, and The Rachael Ray Show, Sue has shared her expertise widely. Her private MELT practice has served major league baseball and basketball stars, Olympic gold medalists, and Hollywood A-listers. Through her in-person classes, streaming platform MELT On Demand, and the global MELT Instructor Community of over 3,500 practitioners, Sue has helped countless individuals overcome chronic pain and enhance their overall wellbeing over the past two decades. Sue's mission is to empower people to deepen their understanding of how to achieve pain-free living, improve their health span, and increase their longevity. Her vision for the future of health and wellness is both inspiring and transformative. Sue is available for Zoom and live presentations. Book now to bring her expertise to your audience and inspire them to take control of their health and wellness journey.
PRE CONGRESS AFTERNOON - OPTION 2
Sunday, Aug 10
2-5 PM
OPTION 3
ANDRZEJ PILAT
Topic: Myofascial Unwinding Process in the Concept of Myofascial Induction Therapy (MIT™).
Myofascial Unwinding (MU) is a therapeutic approach employed across multiple therapeutic disciplines such as manual therapy, osteopathy, physiotherapy, structural integration, and other bodywork and somatic therapies. It is suggested that the term was introduced by the esteemed osteopath Dr. Viola M. Frymann, although it had been previously utilized in various clinical approaches to treat myofascial tissue before addressing any articular dysfunctions.
During this therapy, the practitioner employs gentle touch and stretching to activate mechanoreceptors within the fascial structures. This interaction produces both local and systemic feedback aimed at achieving dynamic equilibrium. The clinical applications of MU are extensive, attributable to its ability to facilitate spontaneous and smooth movements. It is advised for use in both acute and chronic myofascial dysfunctions.
Recent studies in neuroscience and microbiology provide a deeper understanding of the physiological foundations of MU. These studies examine how fascial tissue responds to mechanical stimuli, proprioceptive and interoceptive information, as well as the cognitive aspects of motor execution. The authors assert that specific brain regions are responsible for integrating motor and cognitive functions. This integration results in cognitive processes coinciding with
complex motor outputs, thereby creating dynamic bidirectional influences between these functions. In the Myofascial Induction Therapy methodology, Myofascial Unwinding (MU) is classified as a systematic sustained approach that examines spontaneous movement as a viable method for learning, re-education, and functional recovery. The workshop will cover the biological basis of the MU process, including fascia behavior from a microbiological perspective, anatomy based on dissections of unembalmed cadavers, and central and peripheral neural responses. Additionally, a demonstration of the MIT procedure in MU will be provided. ABOUT PRESENTER Andrzej Pilat, Physiotherapist (MSc), Manual Therapist. Creator of the Myofascial Induction Therapy approach (MITTM). Author of the book “Myofascial InductionTM. An anatomical approach to the treatment of fascial dysfunction” edited by Handspring Publishing (2022). Co-author of books and papers on manual therapy published in England, Spain, Italy, Poland, Korea and the United States. Founder and Director of the Tupimek School of Myofascial Therapies, Madrid - Spain. Speaker at numerous international congresses and conferences in Spain, Portugal, Italy, Poland, Venezuela, Argentina, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile, Mexico, United States, Canada, Japan, India, Korea. Lecturer of Master Degree at the EUF of ONCE, Autonomous University of Madrid, University of Malaga, University of Granada, European University of Madrid, Amerike University in Mexico, La Sabana University in Bogota, Colombia. Lecturer of postgraduate training in Manual Therapy and Myofascial Therapy at universities in Europe, America and Asia. Founding member of the Fascia Research Society. Research in fascial anatomy in non-embalmed cadavers.
PRE CONGRESS AFTERNOON - OPTION 3
Sunday, Aug 10
2-5 PM
POST CONGRESS WORKSHOPS
14 August (Thursday)
12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
OPTION 1
ROBERT SCHLEIP, PhD
Topic: Fascial Dynamics in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis – Integrating Research with Hands-On Techniques
Recent research suggests that in most patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS), vertebral positioning is preceded by shifts in tensional patterns within the myofascial trunk. This highlights the importance of optimizing collagenous force transmission as a key aspect of treatment.
Additionally, studies indicate that many AIS patients exhibit impaired PIEZO2 receptor expression in their muscle spindles, leading to proprioceptive dysfunction. Understanding these mechanisms opens new possibilities for targeted manual therapy interventions.
This workshop will explore these fascinating myofascial aspects of AIS, combining cutting-edge research with practical applications. Participants will receive in-depth theoretical insights as well as hands-on guidance in manual therapy techniques tailored to these findings. The workshop will be structured as follows:
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50% Theory: In-depth discussion of fascial force transmission, altered physiolocial and hormonal aspects, proprioceptive impairment, and their implications for AIS treatment.
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50% Practical Application: Hands-on techniques for assessing and addressing fascial imbalances and proprioceptive deficits in AIS patients.
This session is designed for manual therapists and movement educators Note: All participants please bring thick exercise mat for cushioning on the hotel table. ABOUT PRESENTER Prof Dr Robert Schleip is a human biologist and psychologist. His area of expertise is fascia research. He graduated from the University of Heidelberg in 1980 with a degree in psychology. 1977-1983 he trained as a Certified-Advanced-Rolfer and 1984-1987 as a Feldenkrais teacher. In 2006 he received his doctorate in human biology from the University of Ulm. His doctoral thesis on active fascial contractility was awarded with the Vladimir Janda Prize for Musculoskeletal Medicine. Schleip was co-initiator of the first International Fascia Congress 2007 at the Harvard Medical School in Boston (1st Fascia Research Congress), which marked the breakthrough for modern fascia research, as well as the subsequent congresses. He was a member of the scientific committee at all events in this series. Schleip has been Director of the Fascia Research Group, Division of Neurophysiology at the University of Ulm since 2008. Schleip has been the organizer of the event "CONNECT - Connective Tissues in Sports Medicine" in 2013 and 2017 together with the sports physician Prof. Jurgen Steinacker. He is also Executive Research Director of the European Rolfing Association, Vice President of the Ida P. Rolf Research Foundation, and Board Member of the Fascia Research Society. As a lecturer he teaches in physiotherapy, orthopedics and training science. He is the author and publisher of specialist publications on the subject of "Fascia" and is present in the media on this subject.
POST CONGRESS
OPTION 1
Thursday, Aug 14
12:30 - 3:30 PM
OPTION 2
TIL LUCHAU
Topic: Inflammation (Hands-On Techniques)
Inflammation plays a role in nearly all musculoskeletal issues, yet for fascia-informed manual therapists, it can be a challenging puzzle. Sometimes hands-on work helps, while at other times it can worsen inflammation. What makes the difference? How can our growing understanding of fascia, pain, and the brain guide our approach to inflammatory conditions?
Join author, teacher, and Certified Advanced Rolfer Til Luchau for a condensed version of his popular “Working With Inflammation” training. Using recent research and expert clinical insights, this workshop will help you
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Understand inflammation’s types, stages, causes, and resolution.
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Clarify the role of manual therapy in addressing inflammation
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Learn practical, hands-on techniques and approaches
This workshop will blends theory and practice, giving you tools to navigate the complexities of inflammation in your hands-on work.
Note: Workshop will commence only with minimum participants of 8. All participants please bring thick exercise mat for cushioning on the hotel table.
About Presenter
Til Luchau is a manual therapy educator, author, developer of the Advanced Myofascial Techniques approach, and a Certified Advanced Rolfer. He cohosts the popular The Thinking Practitioner podcast.