GRADUATE CERTIFICATE: CLINICAL LASER THERAPY FOR MUSCULOSKELETAL CONDITIONS, PAIN AND WOUND HEALING (21713VIC)

COURSE AIM:

This Graduate Certificate course aims to provide medical practitioners, dentists, physiotherapists, chiropractors, osteopaths, podiatrists, wound care consultants, naturopaths, acupuncturists, traditional chinese medicine and other allied health professionals, with essential underpinning knowledge of the primary and secondary effects of clinical low intensity laser therapy (LILT) and cellular responses and reactions to low levels of laser light, according to research.

The therapeutic effects of LILT on muscle, bone, neural and connective tissue and in the clinical management of both osteo and rheumatoid arthritis is examined along with the role of nutritional support during the healing phase and to mediate inflammatory pathways.

The effects of tissue injury on cellular activity and the influences of lifestyle and stress on the healing process is examined. The treatment of burns and ulcers using LILT and the benefits of this clinical modality for diabetics and neuropathy is evaluated. The role of laser auriculotherapy in the treatment of addiction to nicotine and other substances including excessive food intake and to detect hidden focal disturbances present within the body that can interfere with energetic interactions and healing, is evaluated and related to illness and chronic pain syndromes.

Practitioners will gain a knowledge of the importance of treatment dosage, the biological and physiological effects of wavelength and pulsing of laser light to accelerate healing, improve immune response and to alleviate the symptoms of tissue trauma, musculoskeletal injury, arthritis and pain.

This is a nationally recognised training course accredited by The Victorian Qualifications Authority. General Medical Practitioners may apply individually to the RACGP for quality assurance and CPD points.

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD

Graduate Certificate in:
Clinical Laser Therapy for Musculoskeletal Conditions, Pain and Wound Healing

The candidate must complete all classroom and distance study and the competency assessment requirements of this course during the maximum period of candidature.

To qualify for the award of this Graduate Certificate:

• This course is to be completed over 1 year of part time study.
• Written assignments must be completed for each study section, before the candidate will be accepted for
  enrolment in the next subsequent study section.
• Case study reports for classroom Section 1 & 3 must be completed within 1 year

COURSE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

• This is a post graduate course, so applicants must be a qualified medical or allied health professional or nurse.
• Hold a professionally recognised health science qualification e.g. Degree. Advanced Diploma or Diploma.
• Any other qualification must satisfy the entry requirements of this course plus a minimum of 5 years clinical
  experience in the clinical treatment of sports injury or soft tissue / musculoskeletal conditions or wound care.

For further information and course fee - Telephone: 1300 887 344.
A 10% discount applies for payment of the full course fee prior to commencement of section 1
Enrolment forms can be downloaded here at the bottom of the page.

POST GRADUATE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

This educational program is composed of 3 Sections to be completed over 1 year

It is expected that this Graduate Certificate could be completed in 1 year part time at self paced learning and it is
estimated that students should allow 5 hours for reading and research time per week to complete the written assessment requirements for each section of this course.

FLEXIBLE LEARNING:
Enables students to complete this course in conjunction with their existing professional work commitments

COMBINED CLASSROOM TUTORIALS AND CLINICAL PRACTICE
Conducted at the Australian Institute of Laser Therapy in Melbourne to enable students to utilise a wide variety
of equipment

DISTANCE STUDY
Via written material and research.

INTERNATIONAL STUDY
Special conditions apply for courses conducted outside Australia

ENROLMENT

• If a student cannot attend the classroom study section of the course on the scheduled dates they are enrolled
  for, then notification in writing must be received before 10 days of commencement of the course and the student
  will automatically be enrolled for the next dates available for the same section. Failure to attend a classroom
  study section without written notice will result in the forfeit of that classroom study section fee.
• A cancellation fee equal to 30% of the course fee is payable immediately if the cancellation is made within 10
  days before the commencement of the classroom study section.
• Course fees are non refundable. If students are paying per study section, a credit note shall be issued for the
  same amount of any paid study section.
• If a student wishes to cancel their enrolment it does not become effective until AILT receives written notification.
  

CLASSROOM STUDY SECTION 1

Face to face classroom tutorials and intensive practical tuition over 3
consecutive days. Commencing with course pre-requisite : Laser
Science and Safe use Of laser and Pulsed Light 217111VIC, followed
by study units VBP 675 and VBP681 and VBP 678

Assessment for section 1 is by classroom practical, written assignment of 3,000 words and clinical case study’s performed by the student within their workplace and verified with relevant documentation.

DAY 1:
Study Unit – code 217111VIC

UNIT TITLE : Laser Science and Safe use of Laser and Intense Pulsed
Light

This unit complements existing competencies already gained by
medical and allied health professionals, involved in Laser and non
laser Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology.

APPROVED BY:

• Department of Radiation Health Queensland and Western Australia
  Radiological Council for Licensing.
• Australasian Medical and Clinical Laser Association AMCLA
• OAMPS Insurance Brokers Limited – Community and Health
  Affiliations

DAY 2:
Study Unit Code - VBP 675 – 21713VIC

Manage work within a clinical laser therapy framework.

This unit introduces the practitioner to the historical development and
role of clinical low intensity laser therapy (LILT), including recent developments and new practices. Contra- indications, methods of
application and research relating to the application of clinical low intensity laser therapy for musculoskeletal conditions and acceleration in post operative recovery is evaluated. The relation of laser therapy to other therapies and treatments are compared to optimise clinical outcomes. Scientific reports are researched to evaluate findings and assess the therapeutic benefits of laser therapy in comparison and in conjunction with other modalities and pharmaceutical treatment.

DAY 3:
Study Unit Code - VBP 681

Appraise and manage clinical laser therapy treatment for pain
managment and musculoskeletal and arthritic conditions:

Acute and chronic pain is compared to inform practice and clinical low intensity laser therapy LILT application techniques, dosages, wavelength and pulsing are related to the effective treatment of pain, osteo and rheumatoid arthritis, bone fractures, fibrositis, musculoskeletal and spinal conditions including injuries and damage to the intervertebral discs. Trigger points and acupoints are examined in relation to acute and chronic pain and conventional treatment for management of pain is compared with the analgesic effects of LILT.
The inflammatory process and it's effects on human tissue is
examined and the role of complementary therapies and nutritional
support for the management of chronic musculoskeletal disorders
and pain related conditions is evaluated.

LONG DISTANCE STUDY SECTION 2

Via Long Distance Learning – Textbook and study guide provided.
Assessment for section 2 – is by written assignment of 3,000 words.

STUDY UNIT – Code 21713VIC VBP 678

UNIT TITLE: Plan and manage nutritional support for dermatology, healing
and healthcare.

This unit examines the emerging role of nutritional supplements for skin and tissue repair, post operative and health care and evaluates the potential effects of nutritional deficiencies on tissue regeneration, repair and healing. Environmental and other factors relating to nutritional status is evaluated. Fundamental principles of healthy eating and practical techniques for promotion and maintenance of optimum health are examined. The importance of macro and micro- nutrients is evaluated along with maximising the bioavailability of nutritional supplements. A knowledge of drug-nutrient and nutrient-nutrient interactions is essential for nutritional status assessment and a supportive treatment plan for enhancing health and tissue repair.

CLASSROOM STUDY SECTION 3

Face to face classroom tutorials and intensive practical tuition is conducted over 3 consecutive days.

Competency assessment for section 3 is by classroom practical, written
assignment of 3,000 words and clinical case studies perormed by the student within their workplace and verified with relevant documentation.

DAY 1:
Study Unit - Code VBP 679

UNIT TITLE: Appraise and manage clinical laser therapy treatment for
burns, ulcers and tissue healing

This unit covers the knowledge and skills to provide a basis to assist in the
healing of burns, ulcers and injured tissue with clinical low intensity laser
therapy (LILT). Wounds are classified to inform practice and vascular and
lymphatic insufficiencies that benefit from LILT are examined, as well as
nutritional deficiencies and other factors that are likely to have a negative
impact on healing are identified. Contra-indications, prevention of cross
infection and methods of treatment using clinical laser therapy are evaluated and applied.

DAY 2:
Study Unit – Code 21713VIC VBP 680

UNIT TITLE: Appraise and manage pre and post operative laser therapy for
treatment for plastic, orthopaedic, dental and general surgery:

This unit reviews the neuroanatomy of pain and the physiological effects of
pain. The main effects of plastic, orthopaedic, dental and general surgery on the connective tissue, myofascia, bone and formation of scar tissue is
examined. Practitioners will gain an understanding of how clinical low
intensity laser therapy (LILT) can be integrated into the conventional medical model, to reduce complications and infection, accelerate recovery and reduce wound healing costs and pain medication in accordance with the cellular and clinical research. Knowledge and skill in the application of LILT and the nutritional and energetic requirements of the cell during the recovery process is examined.

DAY 3:
Study Unit – Code 21713VIC VBP 682

UNIT TITLE: Plan and provide laser auriculotherapy for detection and
treatment of healing blockages and addictions:

This unit introduces the practitioner to the principles of auriculotherapy
involving the non invasive stimulation of the external surface of the ear with a very low intensity beam of laser light, to alleviate pathological conditions in various parts of the human body, similar to acupuncture. Auriculotherapy has proven to be a powerful adjunct to other complementary therapies and therapeutic modalities for systematic pain relief and for health conditions that have failed to adequately be alleviated by conventional medications or procedures. Reduction of anxiety, insomnia, depression and addictions to nicotine, alcohol, and other substances including excessive food intake is reported in the research literature and is researched further to inform practice.
Practitioners are taught auricular diagnosis using laser to locate hidden foci
within the body, which have been found to interfere with the body's energetic interactions and contribute to the development of inflammation, that in turn forms the basis for the development of clinical symptoms. Active points or foci are detected while monitoring the VAS pulse and treated with laser with selected frequencies to unblock the field of energetic disturbance, without the need for acupuncture needles, moxa, or infiltration of local anaesthetic.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIP

Join the Australasian Medical and Clinical Laser Association Inc. [AMCLA] as a level one member after successful completion of
section 1 and progress to level 4 on completion of all 3 study sections and competency assessments for the ward of Graduate
Certificate in Clinical laser therapy for Musculoskeletal Conditions, Pain and Wound Healing”. Membership to AMCLA provides
professional representation and promotes public awareness of qualified Clinical Laser Therapy and IPL practitioners. This
professional association enables members to be an active voice for discussion with state and federal radiation health and health insurance providers, media and professional indemnity insurance providers.

WHAT CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT LOW INTENSITY LASER THERAPY (LILT)

D. ANDERSON – CHRONIC NECK AND SHOULDER PAIN - VIC.
“ You’re Old (77), You have to expect aches and pains “.
No Way ! Not constant neck and shoulder pain for months . Paracetamol, anti- inflammatories, physiotherapy, then acupuncture gave some short-term relief.
Finally I began Laser Therapy. After each laser therapy session there was little pain, but had some regression on several occasions. Then after the 9th session I experienced the real joy of no pain and free movement of the shoulder and arm,
I’m still 77 but don’t feel 97 anymore.

DIABETIC ULCER - VIC. (See clinical photos above)
I am in my early 50’s and a long term insulin dependent diabetic.I was unaware that I had accidently fractured my big toe. Shortly after an ulcer appeared on the underside of my toe and rapidly degenerated down to bone level. I was hospitalised and x-rays revealed the fracture and advanced osteomyelitis and was advised to have the toe amputated, which I refused.I commenced antibiotic treatment and hyperbaric oxygen therapy on 23.3.06 to assist healing and my naturopath started an intense nutritional program. But due to the depth of my wound and my diabetes I was slowly responding to the hyperbaric treatments and after fifteen, 2 hour sessions I decided to seek assistance from the Australian Institute Of Laser Therapy after attending a lecture given by Tina Czech. On the 19.4.06 during the very first laser therapy session, the pain I had recently developed in my affected foot, quickly subsided and has never returned.

After having four laser therapy sessions in two weeks, the condition of my wound had improved dramatically and during examination by my wound care consultant at the hospital, it was noted that the depth of the wound had also reduced.Unfortunately I had to stop having hyperbaric treatment on the 22.5.06, as it was affecting my eyes, but continued to have laser therapy. By the 23.8. 06 the ulcer had almost healed despite the fact that the prognosis at the time of my initial hospitalisation was very grim, due to the extent of my condition and diabetes type I.
I am convinced that everything I did contributed to my healing and would advise anyone in the same position to consider laser therapy as well.

M. BARWICK - RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS - TAS
I was recently diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. My hands were most severely affected. In fact, I was not able to pour a cup of tea or button up my shirt or trousers. My feet and knees were also starting to increase with pain.
Initially, treatment was recommended by medical doctors- including specialists in the area of rheumatoid arthritis- that involved a series of drugs and other supressive medicines. It was my belief that there was a strong potential for serious side effects and I preferred to try a more natural approach. I chose low intensity laser therapy, after reading an article in Good Medicine Magazine about the benefits of non thermal laser therapy.

I have been undergoing this form of treatment now for 8 weeks at the Australian Insititue of Laser Therapy, and I am amazed that after only a few treatments, the swelling of my joints and the build up of inflammation is disappearing. The pain is barely noticeable and I have movement now- particulary in my hands- which I have not enjoyed for years.
I recommend that you at least give laser therapy a try!

PRACTITIONER COMMENTS

ROBERT KENDALL - A. Ac., Dip. Med. Herb. - QLD
I have been using the Med-9 Laser in my clinic since June 2004 after training with AILT.
As an Acupuncturist, it has made my work easier and has relieved the stress of working with children, ear acupuncture, difficult areas to needle (head, feet and hands) and people who are ‘needle shy’. The laser quickly relieves painful muscle and joint conditions, particularly arthritis, and sporting injuries. We have had great success improving acne and eczema. Due to the pulsing features and power of the Med 9-laser, we are able to quickly alleviate a patients suffering and facilitate the healing prcoess. Overall, the med 9 laser has become a valuable tool, greatly enlarging our range of treatment options.

DR AL TAIF - B. Medicine. Grad. Dip. - Dermatology - NSW
Since I attended post graduate training at the Australian Institute of Laser Therapy, I have introduced clinical Low intensity laser therapy into my general medical practice. I have had great success in treating a wide variety of non responding skin conditions, particularly psoriasis. Post operatively it is excellent for relieving pain and swelling very quickly and reducing the overall recovery time after surgery or soft tissue trauma.

S. DAVIS – Reg. Div. 1 Nurse. B. Nursing - VIC
I have been utilising non thermal low intensity laser therapy for several years,and found that it greatly reduces healing time and is extremely safe. It is an excellent modality for controlling scar formation in the immediate post operative phase and for augmenting both new and mature hypertrophic and keloid scars in all skin types.

25th - 27th November 2008 - click here for enrolment form
 
FURTHER INFORMATION: Telephone 1300 887 344