Agenda
Day 1 (June 26, 2026)
8:00 – Welcome and General Conference Outline
8:15 – 8:45
Speaker: Dawn-Marie Ickes, PT, PhD
Topic: “One Step at a time: Gait as a shared movement vital sign across disciplines“
This opening session considers gait as a dynamic reflection of whole-body organization, offering a framework for interpreting how thoracic mobility, core function, and lower extremity mechanics influence functional performance.
8:45 – 9:30
Speaker: Diane Lee, BSR, FCAMPT, CGIMS
Topic: “Gait is a whole body task. Core and lower extremity osteokinematic requirements”
This lecture will introduce the osteokinematic requirements of primarily the thorax, pelvis, hip, knee and foot through key time points in the gait cycle;
1. Initial contact to weight acceptance,
2. Midstance
3. Terminal stance
4. Toe-off to swing to initial contact.
A pre-conference document and video outlining a committee consensus on terminology for the recommended osteokinematics during these time points will be provided to conference attendees. This lecture will then review the material provided and demonstrate through short videos the assessment (observation and/or manual) of each body region through the 4 key time points. How to determine the first body region to address, when impairments are noted, will be covered in the afternoon workshop
9:30 – 10:15
Speaker: Dr. Albert J. Kozar, DO, FAOASM, R-MSK
Topic: “ Patterns in LE Injury: An Integrated Approach to Diagnosis”
A big picture discussion of lower extremity functional movement based on the Osteopathic Approach to Sports Medicine. We will review what types of dysfunctional movement to expect and how to assess them based on each specific joint, gait mechanics, fascia, neuromotor control and primary (PRM) & secondary respiration effects on the lower extremity
10:15 – 10:30 – Break
10:30 – 11:15
Speaker: Vicky Johnson, PT, FFFMT, FAAOMPT
Topic: “Connecting the Lower Extremity with the Core”
The purpose of this lecture is to review trunk, pelvic and lower extremity coupled movements during each phase of gait. The participants will be introduced to simple and effective assessments and tests to determine if the lower extremity is able to effectively function with the core in each phase of gait. Video demonstrations will identify the changes which can occur in the total system from a neuromuscular facilitation technique, Tonic Spread, including stability of the trunk, lower extremity strength, increase mobility in the myofascial system and more efficient breathing patterns of the diaphragm.
11:15- 12:00
Speaker: Gregg Johnson, PT, FFFMT, FAAOMPT
Topic: “Correlating fetal foot shapes and positions to activation of the core and lower extremity neuromuscular function”
In this lecture, Gregg will show us how to assess activation of the core before and after restoring normal biomechanics of the foot. The lecture will present how to identify the four general foot shapes and why those shapes impact trunk and lower extremity function. A theory will be presented related to the genesis of these four primary foot types focusing on mid-foot involvement. Treatment strategies will be presented to address the mechanical, neuromuscular, and motor control challenges identified with each foot type. Several case studies will be presented.
12:00- 12:45
Speakers: Diane Lee, BSR, FCAMPT, CGIMS, Dr. Albert J. Kozar, DO, FAOASM, R-MSK, Gregg Johnson, PT, FFFMT, FAAOMPT and Vicky Johnson, PT, FFFMT, FAAOMPT
Topic: “Observing Functional Movement”
Each teacher will go thru their thought process on observation of several different individuals functional movement, gait patterns and how they process the observed patterns into what they look for on physical examination. … Goal … to improve everyone’s observation skills of functional movement.
12:45- 1:30 – Lunch (We can have vendors come to the campus for lunch options)
1:30- 5:45 DAY 1 WORKSHOPS
1:30 – 2:30 GROUP A (50 People)
Speaker: Diane Lee, BSR, FCAMPT, CGIMS
Topic: “Assessment of the step forward task – where in the body is the problem for efficient gait?”
This workshop will teach how to determine where in the body further assessment should occur to facilitate improvement in efficient gait
This workshop will teach corrections of the hindfoot, pelvis and thorax (generally, not ring specific) in a step forward task as a method to identify where in the body further assessment should occur to facilitate improvement in efficient gait.
This workshop can go through how to determine while in a step forward position the TPR of the pelvis, the TPR of the thorax (are they rotated congruently or incongruently), the position of the front and back foot. Then to apply simple corrections to the feet, pelvis thorax (generally) to determine where the intervention should start.
1:30 – 2:30 GROUP B (50 People)
Speaker: Dr. Albert J. Kozar, DO, FAOASM, R-MSK
Topic: “Patterns in LE Injury: An Integrated Approach to Treatment”
In this hands-on lab we will explore palpatory assessment and lower extremity movement in common areas where patterns of LE dysfunction occur … in neuromotor control; recognition of capsular instabilities; assessment of the PRM and/or breath in LE tissues; and concepts in fascial integrity and fascial ligamentous release.
2:30 – 3:30
Speakers: Diane Lee, BSR, FCAMPT, CGIMS and Dr. Albert J. Kozar, DO, FAOASM, R-MSK
Diane and Al will repeat their workshop for a second time. The groups just switch rooms at 2:30
3:40 – 4:40 GROUP A (50 People)
Speaker: Vicky Johnson, PT, FFFMT, FAAOMPTTopic: “Manual assessment of the lower extremity, neuromuscular connection to the core and facilitation of enhanced connectivity”
The participants will be introduced to effective tests to determine if the lower extremity is able to effectively function with the core in each phase of gait. Video demonstrations will identify the changes which can occur in the total system from a neuromuscular facilitation technique, Tonic Spread, including stability of the trunk, lower extremity strength, increase mobility in the myofascial system and more efficient breathing patterns of the diaphragm.
3:40 – 4:40 GROUP B (50 People)
Speaker: Gregg Johnson, PT, FFFMT, FAAOMPTTopic: “How to identify foot shapes and evaluate the foot to core connection. Introduction into applying manual therapy to enhance foot posture and Function”
Expanding upon the morning foot posture lecture the instructor will guide you through assessing your partner’s foot posture and learn how to utilize a PNF lower extremity flexion pattern to determine lower extremity and trunk strength. You will then be instructed into the soft tissue technique of Circumferential mobilization for the calf in addition mobilization techniques will be presented for the cuneiforms and calcaneus.
4:45 – 5:45
Speakers: Vicky Johnson, PT, FFFMT, FAAOMPT and Gregg Johnson, PT, FFFMT, FAAOMPT
Vicky and Gregg’s second lab experience. Groups will switch rooms.
5:45 END OF DAY 1
Day 2 (June 27, 2026)
8:00 – 8:45
Speaker: Dr. Timothy Mazzola, MD, CAQSM, RMSK. and Diane Lee, BSR, FCAMPT, CGIMS
Topic: “When Training the Core Isn’t Enough- An Integrative Regenerative Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment of Lumbopelvic Core Injuries affecting Gait ”
A review of Pelvic Form & Force Closure with an Ultrasound-Guided Tour of the SI ligaments and their intimate relationships to Multifidus, Gluteus Maximus and Gluteus Medius. We’ll then look at lumbar paraspinal myofascial attachments to the ilium and the Fascial Components of Muscle Critical for Anatomic Integrity and Load Transfer.
8:45 – 9:30
Speaker: Dr. Brad Fullerton, MD.
Topic: “The Quadriceps – much more than a knee extensor”
The quadriceps are understood as strong knee extensors with a secondary function as a hip flexor due to the proximal origin of the rectus femoris. This bone-centered view limits our understanding of clinical presentation after quadriceps injury, overuse and/or degeneration. This lecture utilizes fascia-based anatomy (which includes the lateral and medial intermuscular septums), biotensegrity-informed examination techniques, and dynamic ultrasound to guide diagnosis and treatment. Case studies of diagnosis and ultrasound-guided regenerative medicine treatment illustrate this new viewpoint.
9:30 – 10:15
Speaker: Dr. Michael Khadavi, MD., RMSK
Topic: “Intraosseous Orthobiologics, why, when where, and how?”
The pathology and importance of subchondral bone will be reviewed as well as the major randomized trials that show the power of intraosseous Orthobiologic injections in subchondral bone for long-term joint health. We will also provide brief updates on indications and dosing for PRP for joints and soft tissues and rationale for post procedural rehabilitation protocols.
10:15- 10:30 – Breakout Movement Session
10:30 – 11:15
Speaker: Dr. Kentaro Onishi, MD.
Topic: “Lateral ankle sprain – where ultrasound is revolutionizing the care”
Lateral ankle sprain is arguably the single, most common sporting injury musculoskeletal experts encounter in clinics. Its evaluation and treatment protocol vary significantly from clinic to clinic. This presentation will discuss evolving anatomy, biomechanics, diagnostic ultrasound, and treatment options. Following the presentation, attendees will be able to discuss with the patient the relevant anatomy, biomechanics, role of ultrasound and evidence surrounding the treatment options.
11:15- 12:15
Speaker: Professor Max Paquette, PhD., FACSM.
Topic: “From Ground Contact to Joint Load: Biomechanics of Different Foot Strike Patterns and Footwear Implication “
This presentation will examine acute and chronic differences in lower-limb joint biomechanics between rearfoot and non-rearfoot running patterns, with particular emphasis on joint loading and musculoskeletal tissue stress. Drawing from applied biomechanics research, it will explore how variations in initial ground contact influence load distribution across the lower extremity. The session will then translate these findings into practical footwear guidance, discussing how strike patterns may interact with specific footwear features to inform evidence-based recommendations for shoe selection tailored to individual running mechanics.
12:15- 12:30. A panel of our afternoon workshop speakers explaining what they will be doing in the afternoon sessions
- 12:30 – 1:30 – Lunch
- 1:30 – 5:45 DAY 2 WORKSHOPS
*Notice the first two labs and the second two labs are opposing each other. Participants must choose which workshop they would like to be in. Each lab is 90 min.
1:30 – 3:00 – LAB 1
Speaker: Lauri Nemetz, MA, BC-DMT, LCAT, ERYT500, C-IAYT
Topic: “Myofascial Efficacy in Balance and Gait”
The human body operates as an interconnected biotensegral system, responsive to its environment, including gravity, ground reaction forces, and loading. The evolution of bipedalism in humans made it possible to stand, walk, and run for long periods of time, often with only one leg in contact with the ground during active movement. This evolutionary adaptation not only changed the structure and functional demands of our musculoskeletal system but also developed myofascial integration to support energy transfer, postural control, and locomotion efficiency. We will look at disruptions that affect balance and strategies to improve fascial elasticity, proprioceptive responsiveness, and load distribution.
1:30 – 3:00 – LAB 2
Speakers: Brenna Backe, BS, CPT and Nancy Harrison, PT, MSPT, CFMT, FFMT, FAAOMPT
Topic: “Rehab to Resilience”
In this lab, we will focus on the ankle joint and its connection to the pelvis. We will explore the patient’s journey from manual therapy to strength training with the goal of avoiding re-injury and gaining long-term resiliency. This workshop is intended to highlight the important role manual therapy and strength training can play in a patient’s return to activity and sport. During this lab, the teachers would like to highlight the importance of progressing complexity while cueing participants to notice at what point their stability collapses.
3:15 – 4:45 – LAB 3
Speakers: Dr. Timothy Mazzola, MD, CAQSM, RMSK and Diane Lee, BSR, FCAMPT, CGIMS
Topic: “Myofascial Structural Integrity”
1. Physical Examination for Myofascial Structural Integrity and Load Transfer (SIJ stability and multifidus assessment)
2. Physical Examination for Mechanical Capacity of the Longissimus, Iliocostalis and related Lumbopelvic Core Musculature- Beyond the Multifidus
In this lab, we revisit skills learned in our first C3 conference, emphasizing the importance of SI joint stability, and layer onto them new examination techniques to assess myofascial structural capacity of the lumbopelvic core muscles essential for efficient gait.
3:15 – 4:45 – LAB 4
Speakers: Chris Frederick, PT and Ann Fredrick
Topic: “Fascianetics from Core to Calcaneus and Beyond”
Fascianetics merges ‘fascia’ with ‘kinetics’ to describe an innovative whole body systems approach to movement restoration for prehab, rehab, performance, daily function and well-being.
Combining principles and concepts from dynamic fascial anatomy and kinesiology, biotensegrity, regional interdependence and integrated systems models and fascia stretch therapy, Fascianetics has been an essential element for professional athletes and Olympians to improve performance specifically for power and speed generation as well as post activity recovery from foot to core.
It also has specific efficacy in prevention as well as treatment for common conditions such as compartment syndrome, plantar fasciitis and generally tight, restricted feet that creates pain and impairs weight bearing functional activities. Improved balance and proprioception are additional benefits.
In this hands-on workshop, you will learn the following 3-D triplanar techniques that you can use on your patients/clients when you return to your workspace:
“Rotisserie” – quick manual therapy based GTO focused release of entire lower leg myofasciae, interosseous membrane and foot
Assisted standing posterior chain and spiral fascial net expansion to release excessive short and long vector tension forces connecting plantar fascia, hind foot, interosseous membrane and all myofascial compartments of the lower leg and knee.
Assisted pronation-supination rebalancing: osteokinematic realignment for improved biomechanics & neuromuscular control.
Assisted standing thoracic spiral expansion release in hip hinge position to improve breathing capacity with increased ROM and counter balancing rotation with pelvis in gait and running.
5:00 – 5:45 OPEN LAB
Opportunity for attendees to work on each other
5:00 – (Optional) 2:1 private teaching time with physician for focused training on physician exam and ultrasound skills with Dr. Tim Mazzola, Dr. Phil Steele, Dr. Brad Fullerton, and Dr. Al Kozar.
5:45 END OF DAY 2
Day 3 (June 28, 2026)
8:00 – 8:15
Speaker: Dr. Brad Fullerton, MD.
Topic: “Biotensegrity considerations in the Tibial-Fibular Relationship”
The real story behind the posterior peroneal septum!
8:15 – 9:00
Speakers: Diane Lee, BSR, FCAMPT, CGIMS and Dr. Xiao Yuan, MD
Topic: “Connecting the neck to the foot and the foot to the core”
A collaborative approach illustrating case studies linking gait biomechanics across multiple segments.
9:00 – 10:00
Speakers: Dr. Phil Steele, MD, RMSK and Anna Soulia, PT.
Topic: “Connecting the Knee to the Erector Spinal Musculature Understanding the why for patellofemoral osteoarthritis”
Lecture and video demonstration focusing on screening beyond the knee to understanding factors influencing normal patellafemoral motion.
Case study will be presented using a Collaborative approach to understanding an unusual erector spinae injury which contributes to both upper and lower extremity dysfunction.
10:00 – 10:30 – Find your Local/Regional Collaborative Care Teammates!
Break with the intention of people in their local area to gather together/meet and greet. We will have information about a list of conference participants and how they can team up together during this Day 3 break time.
10:45- 11:30
Speakers: Dr. Timothy Mazzola, MD, CAQSM, RMSK and Dawn Marie Ickes, MPT, PhD.
Tim will lead an interactive review of the highlights of the conference.
Dawn- Marie will synthesize conference content to better use gait as a screening tool, outcome measure, and guide for sequencing interventions to support long-term movement health.
11:30- 11:40
Jill Miller C-JAYT, ERYYT and Dr. Albert J. Kozar, DO, FAOASM, R-MSK will explain what you get to look forward to in the afternoon workshops.
11:40- 12:30 – Lunch
12:30- 2:30 – DAY 3 WORKSHOPS
12:30 – 2:30
This lab will be 2 hours long. The physicians will go to the advanced ultrasound Training while physiotherapists and other allied health will go to the movement lab.
Lab 1 –
Speaker: Jill Miller C-JAYT, ERYYT
Topic: “Step Into Breath”
Your gait pattern is inextricably tied to your body’s basic breathing rhythms. Our mammalian evolution demanded that our biology master the coupling of walking and breath. This gentle workshop coaches your whole body to improve its stride through a few simple tests, foot and core rollouts along with challenges to your range of motion. Explore the fascial engine of the thoracolumbar aponeurosis in all planes of movement through specific self myofascial release application. Connect a foot-trunk pathway and step into the breadth of your breath.
Lab 2 –
Reg Med Physician and other professions interested in sonography.
Speakers: Dr. Phil Steele, MD, RMSK, Dr. Xiao Yuan, MD, Dr. Brad Fullerton, MD., Dr. Timothy Mazzola, MD, CAQSM, RMSK and Dr. Albert J. Kozar, DO, FAOASM, R-MSK
2:30 – Group comes back together for wrap up of conference.
3:00 – Conclusion of 2026 C3 Conference.
* Dissection Group meets in Dissection Lab on the 3rd floor. 9:00 am. June 29
Day 4 ( Optional- June 29, 2026)
Cost: $325 (Limited to 60 participants)
An Immersive Anatomy Dissection: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Spine, Pelvis and Lower Extremity Anatomy within the Body
Speakers: Lauri Nemetz, MA, BC-DMT, LCAT, ERYT500, C-IAYT, Dr. Brad Fullerton, MD.
Location: Rocky Vista University – 8401 S Chambers Rd, Englewood, CO 80112
9am – 4pm with a 45 minute lunch break
Deep dive into the intricate anatomy of the pelvis, spine and lower extremity through an immersive dissection experience. This specialized one/day workshop will provide you with an unprecedented level of anatomical understanding, equipping you with the knowledge needed to enhance and understand foot, knee, hip and pelvic conditions on a more profound visual and tactile level. We will explore the intricate structures and interconnections that govern lower extremity and spinal function, along with the relationship to deeper structures such as the diaphragm. You will gain a comprehensive, three-dimensional understanding of these critical regions on the body. This unique add-on dissection workshop is an invaluable complement to the approaches covered in our broader conference. No matter your lab experience, you will gain new insights with this one day of exploration.
Please note: We require a minimum of 18 participants and can only accommodate a maximum of 60 participants. Please register early to guarantee your experience.

