This is a beginner to intermediate course designed to provide a basic working knowledge of biofeedback assisted behavioral therapy for bladder, bowel, and pelvic pain disorders. This workshop meets all of the didactic and practicum requirements for the BCIA Certification in Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction. Upon completion of the course, participants will have the knowledge to begin treating patients with these disorders. The workshop format will include online learning, lecture, case histories, hands-on lab experiences, and practice with biofeedback equipment. This workshop will NOT involve any internal examination, and participants will stay fully clothed throughout the workshop.

Pre-course online learning

• Biofeedback (Overview, History, Modalities, Theory, Procedures) 
• Surface EMG technology and operation 
• Neuromuscular relaxation training 
• Anatomy and physiology of pelvic floor structures 
• Pelvic organ prolapse 
• Chronic pain mechanisms 
• Chronic pain syndromes (vulvodynia, levator ani syndrome, etc) 
• Co-morbidities (IBS, PBS, prostatitis, fibromyalgia, etc.) 
• Other behavioral modalities (relaxation, diet, exercise) 
• Medical Interventions for pelvic pain 
• Basic sexual history taking and sexual counseling

• Urologic anatomy and physiology
• Uses for biofeedback for bladder disorders
• Gastrointestinal anatomy and physiology
• Diagnostic procedures and treatments for bladder/bowel dysfunction
• Review of all behavioral modalities for bladder/bowel dysfunction

• Extensive Hands-On Biofeedback Lab providing experience assessing and treating patients with urge/stress/mixed incontinence, chronic pelvic pain, fecal incontinence, and overactive pelvic floor
• Participants will use a self-inserted vaginal or rectal sensor during lab

We will discuss behavioral therapy and biofeedback treatment applications used to treat complex patients with urinary and fecal incontinence, constipation, and/or pelvic pain. Participants will be administering biofeedback assessments, conducting treatment sessions, and role playing patient instruction/education for each diagnosis presented. Participants will experience being a biofeedback practitioner and patient (using a self-inserted vaginal or rectal sensor) and participate in labs covering constipation, fecal incontinence, pelvic pain, and urinary incontinence. Lab instructors are certified through the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance in Pelvic Muscle Dysfunction. Resources for training and certification in this area of practice will be provided.

• Participants will understand and be able to explain to patients the anatomy and physiology of pelvic floor musculature, and urinary and gastrointestinal systems.
• Proficiency will be gained in the assessment of pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, including the use of rectal and vaginal surface EMG, electrical stimulation and TTNS.
• Participants will become skilled in the design of treatment plans for bowel, bladder, and pelvic pain disorders using many modalities such as biofeedback, exercise, neuromuscular relaxation, diet, and bladder and bowel retraining.
• Participants will become skilled in administering biofeedback assessments, conducting treatment sessions, and utilizing behavioral therapy techniques to successfully treat patients.