
San Diego, California
San Diego, California
March 30 — April 3, 2023

San Diego, California
San Diego, California
March 30 — April 3, 2023
March 30 — April 3, 2023
About PSOAS
5 days. 15 speakers. 18 awesome lectures & workshops.
The mission of the Pacific Sports and Orthopedic Acupuncture Symposium is to bring together practitioners from around the globe and provide not only amazing educational offerings, but also foster greater community in our field. The 2023 PSOAS will focus on Myofascial Pain: Assessment and Treatment. We have an incredible line up of diverse experts presenting clinically relevant information you definitely won’t want to miss! Other bonuses are early morning qigong sessions overlooking the water, networking opportunities and a vendor hall for discounted supplies.
PSOAS 2023 Speakers
Our mission in assembling the PSOAS event is to build confident and knowledgeable practitioners and to strengthen our field. We present a group of passionate practitioners and researchers specializing in myofascial pain and dysfunction. The information presented by these top speakers will expand our knowledge, refine our skills, and artfully mix academia with effective clinical pearls. The better we are as practitioners, the more successful we become and the more patients we can help, which is what we all strive for.
Come and enjoy diverse and stimulating presentations, exhibitor discounts, and connect with fellow practitioners in our great community. Have Fun!
We welcome all students and practitioners to the PSOAS event from the traditionally trained to the medical acupuncturist. All can benefit from this collection of presenters.
Click on the Speaker’s photo to read about their presentation topic and bio.

Dr. Antonio Stecco, MD, PhD
Assistant Professor at Rusk Rehabilitation, New York University
Antonio Stecco
Dr. Antonio Stecco, MD, PhD
Saturday, April 1, 2023 All-Day Workshop:
Acupuncture Western Medicine Fascial Manipulation
Fascial Manipulation efficacy has been demonstrated through clinical experience, as reported in this book, and by numerous scientific articles indexed in PubMed. Using a scientific logic, according to the criteria of modern medicine, the explanation of the aforementioned clinical efficacy may reside in the rich innervation of the muscular fascia that, when appropriately stimulated, can excite multiple areas of the Central Nervous System via reflex pathways. This could also explain the positive actions on internal organs and viscera that have been observed. Nevertheless, the foundations of Chinese medicine supply an ulterior fascinating explanation. This course presents both meridians and acupuncture points, along with their relative actions and indications, in a new fascia-oriented proposition. Therefore, it is a complete work that will be useful for anyone who is dedicated to fascial treatment, but also to the clinical practice of acupuncturists.
Short Bio:
Assistant Professor at Rusk Rehabilitation, New York University. Physiatrist, President of Fascial Manipulation Association since 2010; Assistant to the President of the International Society of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ISPRM) from 2012 to 2014; President of International Myopain Society since 2020.Scientific activity devoted to the study of the human fasciae from a macroscopically, histologically and patho-physiologically point of view.
He personally made over 100 cadaver dissections for research. From 2007, he organized and personally held theoretical-practical courses about the Fascial Manipulation method in all the five continents. Author of more than 50 in extensor papers about the fascia. Co-Authors of five books and co-author of different chapters of international books.

Dr. Rebecca Pratt, MD
Professor at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine
Rebecca Pratt
Dr. Rebecca Pratt
Friday, March 31, 2023 Morning Presentation:
Fascial System Anatomy and the Continuity of Care
Anatomy means “to cut apart”. To take what is whole and reduce to pieces. We have been investigating, documenting and teaching anatomy under this rule for 800 years. Most US health care training has their anatomy curricula grounded in an artificial view of the human form with the fascial system responsible for uniting the body largely devalued and dissected away. This farewell to fascia in the medical curriculum leaves many future US physicians forgetting the body is completely united; that no single part of the body functions independently. Some may have disregarded that before their anatomy course the interconnected body served to benefit the collective whole of the person and that alterations in any part of the system, including an individual’s mental and spiritual health, can affect the function of the body as a whole and all other parts therein. In this talk we will discuss the structure and function of fascia and some examples of abnormal structure manifesting as potential dysfunction. We will also learn how having laboratory discussions with medical students about fascia may aid in their understanding of patient well-being and what acupuncture can offer in the continuity of care.
Short Bio:
Dr. Pratt joined Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine (OUWB) faculty in January 2018 as a tenured professor in the Department of Foundational Medical Studies teaching anatomical sciences. Prior to that she was a Professor of Radiology at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MSUCOM) for seven years, an Associate Professor of Biomedical Sciences at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM) for four years, and an Assistant professor of Biomedical Sciences at Grand Valley State University, Allendale Michigan, for three years. She did her postdoctoral fellowship and Ph.D. at Purdue University; West Lafayette, Indiana, and her undergraduate coursework at Michigan State University; East Lansing, Michigan.
Currently, Dr. Pratt serves as a Board Member of the international Fascia Research Society. She previously served a 3-year term as a Board Member for the American Association for Anatomy (AAA), and a 3-year term as a Councilor-at-Large for the American Association of Clinical Anatomy (AACA). Dr. Pratt has been Chair of the Educational Affairs Committee, Professional Development Committee, and a member on the Committee for Early Career Anatomists within AAA. She currently serves AAA on the Professional Development Committee again as a senior member. Highlights of her academic career include receiving the Keith and Marion Moore Top Publication in an AAA Journal Award for her publication on histology education in 2009 and the Basmajian Award (AAA) for outstanding research, leadership and teaching in the field of anatomy in 2014. In 2021 she was one of the authors on the article selected by AAA to win the Early Career Anatomy Award (2022).
Countless hours dedicated to course development won her the overall most outstanding curricular contributions at both WVSOM and again at MSUCOM. Dr. Pratt has also been the recipient of numerous teaching awards including five consecutive Golden Apples at MSUCOM and a Golden Apple at OUWB. She has been an invited speaker for the International Association of Medical Science Educators in St. Andrews, Scotland and Leiden, Netherlands. Currently, Dr. Pratt also serves the medical community as a Visiting Anatomy Professor at Weill Cornell School of Medicine and St. George University School of Medicine. Dr. Pratt has published on fascia in both Women and Men’s Health as well as NIKE magazines. She has studied under Prof. Carla Stecco, leading fascia researcher, at the University of Padua, Italy. A recent highlight of Dr. Pratt’s anatomy career was being invited to participate in a week-long fascial dissection workshop at the Gunther von Hagens Plastinarium in Guben, Germany under the artistic and anatomical direction of Dr. Vladimir Chereminskiy. She is currently a member of the Scientific Programming Committee, a pre-conference workshop leader and a speaker for the 2022 International Fascia Research Congress in Montreal, Canada this September.

Matt Callison, L.Ac.
Founder & Director of the Sports Medicine Acupuncture Certification (SMAC) Program
Matt Callison
Matt Callison, L.Ac
Friday, March 31, 2023 Morning Presentation:
Acupuncture BIG Points for Myofascial Change
This course presents acupuncture points that when treated, have consistent clinical changes in the myofascial channel(s). From 30+ years of experience, Matt Callison will discuss his “go to” points when desiring a myofascial change in a particular area, channel and/or to stimulate a particular organ.
April 2, 2023 Afternoon Workshop: Motor Entry Points for Myofascial Restrictions in Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder and more accurately termed “adhesive capsulitis” contains severe muscle imbalances and muscle guarding signs and symptoms. Specific acupuncture treatment protocols to motor entry points is a significant part of the treatment protocol for a successful rehabilitation. This hands-on workshop will go over the research, location and needle application of key muscle motor entry points affected by adhesive capsulitis. This workshop will better prepare the registrant for the all-day workshop held the next day on Monday, April 3rd.
Monday, April 3, 2023 All-Day Workshop:
Adhesive Capsulitis: An Acupuncturist’s Guide in Assessment and Treatment
Adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen shoulder, is an inflammatory condition characterized by loss of active and passive shoulder motion secondary to thickening and contracture of the joint capsule. The exact pathophysiology of adhesive capsulitis is unclear. The most accepted hypothesis is that inflammation initially occurs within the joint capsule followed by reactive fibrosis and adhesions of the synovial lining of the joint leading to pain and decreased range of motion. Numerous conditions can produce symptoms similar to adhesive capsulitis including rotator cuff tears, glenohumeral arthritis, crystalline arthropathy and cervical radiculopathy. However, it is important to note that although these conditions are distinct from adhesive capsulitis, they can contribute to the eventual development of adhesive capsulitis. Patients typically present in their 5th decade of life; women are more commonly affected than men and it often affects the non-dominant arm. Research indicates an association with adhesive capsulitis and disorders including diabetes mellitus, thyroid pathology, cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, autoimmune disease, Dupuytren’s disease and hormonal changes in women such as menopause.
Short Bio:
Matt Callison’s unique ability to blend Chinese Medicine with Sports Medicine for over 25 years is demonstrated by his excellent reputation. This is particularly evident in his educational program, the “Sports Medicine Acupuncture Certification Program,” which is attended by acupuncturists worldwide. He has over 25 years experience in cadaver dissection that has helped him to further broaden and deepen his educational program for the acupuncturist. Mr. Callison has had a clinical practice for over 26 years and is well known for developing innovative and successful treatment protocols for musculoskeletal injury. He has published many articles including a clinical study on acupuncture and tibial stress syndromes (shin splints), as well as an article on “Sports Related Muscle Tension Headaches” in the Journal of Chinese Medicine. Furthermore, Mr. Callison is well-known for his work with professional athletes. Mr. Callison is the creator of the Motor Point and Acupuncture Meridian Chart, as well as the author of three publications—The Motor Point Manual, Motor Point Index, and The Sports Medicine Acupuncture textbook (newly released in 2018).
Matt Callison earned his Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education/Sports Medicine from San Diego State University in 1985. He worked in the Sports Medicine field at Alvarado Sports Medicine clinic in San Diego and Scripps Hospital in La Jolla, CA for six years. In 1991, Mr. Callison received his Master’s Degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, where the class he developed, “Treatment of Orthopedic Disorders,” is still being taught. Mr. Callison continues to guest lecture in many acupuncture doctoral programs across the United States.
As Clinic Supervisor for Pacific College at the University of California’s San Diego Sports Medicine RIMAC Center, Mr. Callison guides acupuncture interns in providing Sports Medicine Acupuncture to their athletes.

Andrew Ellis, L.Ac.
Founder of Spring Wind Herbs & Author
Andrew Ellis
Andrew Ellis, L.Ac
Thursday, March 30, 2023 Morning Presentation:
Treatment of Sinew Damage with Internally and Externally Applied Chinese Herbs This presentation will discuss the general principles used to determine the treatment principles that determine the treatment of the three stages of traumatic injury to sinews (muscles, tendons, ligaments and associated tissues).
Thursday, March 30, 2023 Afternoon Workshop:
Treatment of Sinew Damage with Internally and Externally Applied Chinese Herbs We will go into detail regarding the assessment and treatment of each of the three stages, the morning section will provide a general understanding and some simple treatments that can be used by folks who are not well-versed in Chinese herbology. This will include such topics as how to apply a liniment, how to apply a soft plaster and what commonly available patent formulas (tablets, capsules, tinctures, etc.) can safely be used for injuries such as sprains and contusions.
Short Bio:
Andrew Ellis first studied Chinese medicine with Dr. James Tin Yau So at the New England School of Acupuncture. He left New England in 1983 to study Chinese language in Taiwan and apprenticed with Chinese herbalist Xu Fu-Su there for several years. Later he studied internal medicine and gynecology at the Xiamen Hospital of Chinese medicine. While there, he also specialized in the study of acupuncture with Dr. Shi Neng-Yun and dermatology with Dr. Zhang Guang-Cai. Andy also studied treatment of sports injuries and trauma with Zhou Shen in Hong Kong in the late 1980’s. Andy is the founding owner of Spring Wind Herbs in San Leandro, California and has authored, translated, or co-translated several books on Chinese medicine and published numerous insightful articles on Chinese medicinal substances. He has accumulated a wealth of knowledge in the quality discernment, identification and clinical application of Chinese herbs.
Publications which Andy has authored, translated, or co-translated include:
- Notes from South Mountain – Thin Moon Publishing
- The Clinical Experience of Dr. Shi Neng-Yun – Thin Moon Publishing
- A Walk Along the River – Eastland Press
- A Walk Along the River II – Eastland Press
- Formulas and Strategies (Second Edition) – Eastland Press
- Fundamentals of Chinese Medicine – Paradigm Publications
- Fundamentals of Chinese Acupuncture – Paradigm Publications
- Grasping the Wind – Paradigm Publications
- Handbook of Formulas in Chinese Medicine – Eastland Press
- Ten Lectures on the Use of Medicinals – Paradigm Publications

Dr. Arya Nielsen, PhD
Acupuncturist & Faculty at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Arya Nielsen
Dr. Arya Nielsen, PhD
Friday, March 31, 2023 Afternoon Workshop:
Gua sha and Ba guan in the Context of Pain and Inflammation: Assessment and Treatment
In Traditional East Asian medicine, pain is understood as a kind of stasis based on the ancient aphorism: ‘bu tong ze tong; tong ze butong’ meaning ‘no free flow, pain; free flow, no pain’. Blood stasis pain is more severe than Qi stasis pain. Blood stasis pain is fixed, persistent or recurring and can be severe. Interventions that resolve Qi stasis pain like acupuncture, massage, exercise or application of heat will exacerbate blood stasis pain. But Gua sha or Ba guan can resolve blood stasis pain, sometimes with one application. This course will teach participants how to identify blood stasis pain, which is often accompanied by inflammation. What is the biomechanism of resolution of the pain and inflammation and how does Gua sha differ from Ba guan in terms of myofascial treatment? How can we assess immediate and significant Tongue changes treating blood stasis.
Short Bio:
Dr. Arya Nielsen has a research Doctorate in Philosophies of Medicine with a specialization in Integrative Clinical Science and Health Care. She has been an acupuncturist for 46 years and has a faculty appointment at Icahn school of Medicine at Mount Sinai where she is primarily involved in research. She is a senior acupuncture consultant on two NIH-funded multi-site trials: Acupuncture for low back pain in adults 65 and older and Acupuncture for acute pain in the Emergency Department. She teaches in the U.S. and Europe with a focus in Classical practice and evidence-based non-pharmacologic clinical care. Dr. Nielsen is author of the definitive text on Gua sha and developed the Gua sha Certification Course. She is considered the Western clinical authority on Gua sha.

Dr. Dan Bensky
Founder of the Seattle Institute of East Asian Medicine
Dan Bensky
Dr. Dan Bensky
Thursday, March 30, 2023 Morning Presentation:
Engagement, Abstractions, & Conventions: The Utility of Palpation in Traditional East Asian Medicine
In this lecture I will talk about some of the internal issues that hamper both the practices of individual practitioners of Traditional East Asian Medicine [TEAM] including abiding by conventions, making the fundamentals of the medicine abstract, and a lack of engagement with the traditions. I’ll then go into a bit of detail of how the practice of palpation can help counterbalance these issues, enabling us to pay better attention to our patients and our medicine. This will lead to improved outcomes and a more direct engagement with TEAM.
Short Bio:
Dan Bensky is a graduate of the Macau Institute of Chinese Medicine (Oriental Medicine Diploma, 1975), University of Michigan (B.A. in Chinese Language and Literature, 1978), Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (Doctor of Osteopathy, 1982), University of Washington (M.A. in Classical Chinese, 1996), and Chinese Academy of Traditional Chinese Medical Sciences (Ph.D. in Discussion of Cold Damage studies, 2006). He has contributed to the translation and editing of numerous books on Chinese medicine, is a founder of the Seattle Institute of East Asian Medicine, and received the Wang Dingyi Cup for International Contribution to Chinese Medicine in 2008. Along with Charles Chace and Marguerite Dinkins he is one of the developers of Engaging Vitality, an approach to integrating osteopathic palpation and concepts into the practice of Traditional East Asian Medicine and taught workshops on this in Europe, Australia, and the United States.

Brian Lau, AP, C.SMA
Acupuncturist & Faculty for Sports Medicine Acupuncture Certification (SMAC) program
Brian Lau
Brian Lau, AP, C.SMA
Thursday, March 30, 2023 Morning Presentation:
Improving Spinal Mobility and Core Activation with Qigong and Linking with Your Treatments
Qigong movements are generated from a stable and strong core, specifically involving the transverse abdominis, diaphragm, pelvic floor and deep multifidi. This maximizes spinal mobility and health and allows for proper mobility of the organs. This class looks at a foundational spinal wave pattern that is the basis for many other qigong exercises, including the Eight Pieces of Brocade that we will be practicing in the morning qigong session. This movement can also be a fantastic standalone exercise for patients. Specific acupuncture and myofascial release protocols will be discussed that can be used to improve this spinal movement and assist with patient development.
Thursday, March 30, 2023 Afternoon Workshop:
Treating the Channel Sinews with Acupuncture, Myofascial Release and Qigong: Eight Pieces Brocade
Qigong is often discussed in esoteric terminology, but understanding the anatomy, joint mechanics, and channel sinews involvement allows for a biomechanical model to be explored and assists when linking these exercises with anatomically based acupuncture and myofascial release protocols. This class will explore a qigong sequence called Eight Pieces of Brocade (the same sequence we will be practicing in the morning qigong sessions). Discussion will include the channel sinew activation and joint and organ mobilization for each movement. Relevant myofascial release and acupuncture techniques will be shown to help link these exercises with treatment. This class will include movement, so participants are encouraged to wear comfortable attire.
Short Bio:
Brian has 15 years of experience in movement therapy, structural therapy and acupuncture. He began in 1998 with study in tai chi, qigong, liu he ba fa and other internal Taoist arts, which produced such profound changes in his structure and alignment that it propelled his existing interest in health into fulltime professional study. After becoming certified in structural integration (the body of work developed by Dr. Ida Rolf), he went on to study Biomechanics with advanced rolfer Liz Gaggini and fascial connections with advanced rolfer and KMI director Tom Myers. Having developed a focus on internal movement of organs from his Taoist internal practice, Brian also studied visceral manipulation, first with Liz Gaggini and later with the Barral Institute.
While Brian found these manual practices to be powerful tools to effect change in his patients, he noted that internal organ function was often the driving force in patient pathology. He therefore intensified his training by studying Traditional Chinese Medicine. While TCM greatly increased his scope of practice, he did not find it expanded on his previous work so much as it offered another system to use. The Sports Medicine Acupuncture Certification program offered a methodology that bridged the gap between structural theory and the medicine of TCM; Brian entered SMAC intent on fully integrating TCM with his background in structural integration and Taoist internal practices.
In addition to his private practice, Brian teaches anatomy & physiology, radiology, and biochemistry in addition to Eight Principles, OM etiology & pathology, OM medical physiology, and OM history & philosophy at East West College of Natural Medicine in Sarasota, FL, where he is also a clinic supervisor. He also teaches myofascial release at the Sarasota School of Massage Therapy. He is a volunteer instructor with the International Taoist Tai Chi Society and, along with his wife, is a founding member of its Temple Terrace, FL location, where he teaches several classes a week in tai chi, works with training and developing instructors, teaches local workshops and performs a primary leadership role for the location.
Brian holds dual degrees from the University of South Florida in music composition and interdisciplinary natural science (with focus in math and biology). He lives with his wife in Tampa, FL, where he devotes his spare time to native plant gardening and habitat cultivation.

Dr. Anthony Von der Muhll, L.Ac, DAOM, DNBAO, FAIPM
Orthopedics Faculty, Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences
Anthony Von der Muhll
Dr. Anthony Von der Muhll, L.Ac, DAOM, DNBAO, FAIPM
Friday, March 31, 2023 Morning Presentation:
Introduction to Treating Shoulder Injuries with Myofascial and Ligamentous Prolo-Acupuncture
This class provides an overview of symptoms, history, and specialized physical exams that lead directly to treatment of the shoulder with myofascial and ligamentous prolo-acupuncture. These techniques can improve outcomes for a wide range of common and significant shoulder injuries, pain and disabilities by reducing myofascial trigger points in the rotator cuff and other shoulder muscles, and re-stabilizing or mobilizing the gleno-humeral, acromio- and sterno-clavicular joints. Prepare for the afternoon hands-on workshop by reviewing methods and mechanisms of action, contraindications, cautions, safety considerations and patient education for these techniques, as well as red flags for serious joint injuries.
Friday, March 31, 2023 Afternoon Workshop:
Introduction to Treating Shoulder Injuries with Myofascial and Ligamentous Prolo-Acupuncture
Hands-on training and practice of specialized physical examination and treatment of the shoulder with myofascial and ligamentous prolo-acupuncture. These techniques can improve outcomes for a wide range of common and significant shoulder injuries, pain and disabilities by reducing myofascial trigger points in the rotator cuff and other shoulder muscles, and re-stabilizing or mobilizing the gleno-humeral, acromio- and sterno-clavicular joints. Lab will include hands-on review of cautions, safety considerations when needling muscles and joints in this area.
Short Bio:
Dr. Von der Muhll is a highly-experienced, enthusiastic and skilled instructor in acupuncture orthopedics, sports and pain medicine who genuinely enjoys providing long-term mentorship and support for acupuncturists to achieve their professional goals. He is one of the only U.S .acupuncturists who teaches joint stabilization/mobilization needling, is certified in myofascial trigger point needling, and integrates these modern acupuncture methods with classical treatment of the jing-jin (“sinew meridians” or myofascial tracts).
Anthony Von der Muhll is the founder of AOM Professional, and has served as a clinical supervisor at the Masters and Doctorate levels for over 17 years. He has also taught acupuncture orthopedics and pain management in the DAOM and DACM programs of the Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences (Oakland CA), the American College of TCM (San Francisco, CA), the Five Branches University of TCM (Santa Cruz, CA), and the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine (Fairfax, VA). He has been a featured instructor in acupuncture orthopedics at conferences of the Sports Acupuncture Alliance, the California State Oriental Medical Association, California Acupuncture and Traditional Medicine Associates, and the Acupuncture Society of Virginia.
Anthony Von der Muhll is one of the only acupuncturists in the U.S. with extensive experience serving as an expert witness for the California Acupuncture Board and in civil malpractice litigation. He emphasizes the highest standards of safety, ethics and sustainability in his classes.
Anthony Von der Muhll graduated from the Five Branches University of TCM in 2002, and founded the Santa Cruz Acupuncture Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Clinic in 2003. In 2020, Anthony relocated to the East San Francisco Bay, where he now practices at the Sports Acupuncture Clinic/Berkeley Bamboo Clinic operated by his wife, Tamara Brown, L.Ac., DACM. His education, training and clinical experience includes:
- Clinical practice since 2003 as a licensed acupuncturist, and since 1998 as a sports massage therapist, physical therapy aide, and athletic training assistant.
- Clinical practice multi-disciplinary integrative medicine clinics, including SpineMed Associates and the PRIME Pain Medicine Institute.
- California Acupuncture License 9132 (2003)
- Masters in Traditional Chinese Medicine (2002), and first graduate of Five Branches University of TCM’s Integrative Sports Medicine program (2003)
- Doctorate in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (Orthopedics and Pain Management specialization), Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences (2021)
- Clinical Supervisor and Associate Professor at Five Branches University of TCM since 2005 (MTCM and DACM programs)
- Doctoral Clinical Supervisor and Academic Instructor at the Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences since 2017
- Doctoral Instructor at the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine since 2019
- Doctoral Instructor at Virginia University of Integrative Medicine (2020)
- Certificates in Sports Massage and Acupressure (1998)
- Diplomate of the National Board of Acupuncture Orthopedics (2006)
- Certified Personal Trainer through the American College of Sports Medicine (2006)
- Fellow of the Academy of Integrative Pain Management (2014)
- Certified Myofascial Trigger Point Therapist (trigger point needling), Myopain Seminars (2017)
- Subject Matter Expert for the California Acupuncture Board (CAB)
- Expert Witness in civil malpractice litigation and complaints to regulatory boards and insurers.

Dr. Michael Corradino, DAOM, MSTOM, AP
DAOM & Founder-President of Neuropuncture Inc.
Michael Corradino
Michael D. Corradino, DAOM, MSTOM, AP
Saturday, April 1, 2023 All-Day Workshop:
Neuropuncture- Advanced Electrical Acupuncture Neuromodulation
Neuropuncture is a complete neuroscience acupuncture system that teaches the practitioner how to neuromodulate their patient’s nervous system back into health with electrical acupuncture. During this full-day presentation, Dr. Corradino will take you down a historical road highlighting some of acupuncture’s major medical contributions since the Ling Shu and leading to the current arena of electrical acupuncture neuromodulation. Neuropuncture as a system has evolved over the years and so have its clinical techniques. Dr. Corradino will present the Neuropuncture system and two exciting new advanced Neuropuncture neuromodulating techniques. The first is “nerve recruitment with pulse width” and the second is “the Neuropuncture Stellate ganglion neuromodulation technique” and their clinical applications. This will be an exciting, thought provoking, cerebrally stimulating, and a fun full-day of neuroscience acupuncture.
Short Bio:
Dr. Corradino Graduated from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine San Diego, Cum Laude, in 1995 with his Masters in the Sciences of Traditional Oriental Medicine. His undergraduate studies combine molecular biology and philosophy. Dr. Corradino has been in the field of Integrated Chinese Medicine since his graduation (Presently 25+yrs). Michael’s mission in life is to Master the art and science of acupuncture. He believes with evidence-based neurosciences he can reach and expose quality Traditional Chinese Medicine to as many people as possible in his lifetime and to present an effective, quality option for health care and aiding in the integration of Eastern, Western, and, Natural medicine. After practicing for almost ten years, Michael relocated to San Diego in 2004 to complete his Doctorate in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, DAOM, in an effort to further enrich and deepen his understanding of Traditional Chinese Medicine. This was the first graduating class in the nation to complete the DAOM.
Combining all of this knowledge and through extensive research Dr. Corradino has created a new unique system of acupuncture named, Neuropuncture. Neuropuncture is the only complete neuroscience acupuncture system that specifically teaches the practitioner how to neuromodulate their patient’s nervous system back into health with electrical acupuncture. Neuropuncture’s clinical theory is developed by examining the research of the neurophysiological mechanisms of acupuncture, integrating research of electrical acupuncture’s effects on specific neural tissues, while integrating all this within the holistic traditional TCM health model.
Neuropuncture develops our credibility by giving us the language to communicate using 21st century biomedical terminology. Neuropuncture treatment prescriptions are patent pending, neuroscience evidence based, research supported and clinically reproducible. Applying western medical sciences to the classical acupuncture model does not subtract from the efficacy of the “traditional” acupuncture system, it only amplifies and further explains the unique, powerful neuromodulating effects that can be scientifically understood and harnessed by Neuropuncture’s techniques. You will learn to target specific receptors to neuromodulate the release of neurochemistry, neuro-regulate dysfunctional autonomic visceral spinal reflexes and cerebral signatures and target specific regions of the brain and CNS for neuro-rehabilitation.

Dr. Ayla Wolf, DAOM
DAOM & Faculty Member at Carrick Institute the American College of TCM
Ayla Wolf
Dr. Ayla Wolf
Saturday, April 1, 2023 All-Day Workshop:
The Neurology of Human Performance: Advanced Assessment Techniques
Learn to troubleshoot difficult cases and repetitive injuries through a neurological lens. This course will give you tools to assess the different internal maps of the brain and how that relates to movement, body awareness, reaction time, chronic pain and injuries. Functional examination of the sensory homunculus, motor cortex, auditory cortex, visual mapping centers, vestibular system and cerebellum will be taught and practiced, followed by a discussion of treatment strategies based upon examination findings.
Short Bio:
Dr. Ayla Wolf is a Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine specializing in neurological disorders, chronic pain, traumatic brain injuries and concussions. She is a faculty member of the Carrick Institute and adjunct faculty for the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine. She is an international speaker on topics in applied clinical neuroscience, functional neuroanatomy and neurophysiology, and biomedical mechanisms of acupuncture.
Dr. Wolf is a contributing author to the award-winning book Concussion Discussions: A Functional Approach to Recovery After Brain Injury. She was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award by Northwestern Health Sciences University in 2022. During her time in Dallas, Texas she was the team acupuncturist for the UFC and Legacy fighters training out of Fortis MMA and Octagon. She currently treats patients in her private practice in Stillwater, MN. Outside of the clinic she stays active through CrossFit, paddle boarding, skate skiing and hot yoga.

Ian Armstrong, L.Ac., C.SMA
Acupuncturist & Faculty for Sports Medicine Acupuncture Certification (SMAC) program
Ian Armstrong
Ian Armstrong, L.Ac., C.SMA
Sunday, April 2, 2023 All-Day Workshop:
Common Sinew Channel Postural Deviations of the Neck, Chest and Upper Extremity
This lecture and workshop will take a deeper look into the Sinew Channel topography of the upper extremities, their involvement in different postural deviations, and how this contributes to a variety of chronic pain and dysfunction. Ian will also describe how these deviations effect the position of the neck ribcage and shoulder position, and how these deviations contribute to the diaphragm and breathing patterns. After assessment of these deviations, the days presentation will go into treatment in a variety of ways: acupuncture prescriptions, myofascial release techniques and home exercise prescription options.
Short Bio:
Raised in Palo Alto, California, Ian developed a desire for health, fitness, and outdoor activities at an early age. Wishing to maintain close proximity to the outdoors, Ian started off at Humboldt State University and later transferred to the University of New Orleans to study his other passion – jazz music and performance. After several enjoyable years in New Orleans, Ian decided to relocate to San Diego to pursue a Masters of Science in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) at the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine (PCOM) where he graduated in 2009 with an emphasis in sports/orthopedic injuries.
Ian has a long history of working with Matt Callison, first as an assistant in his clinic from 2006-2009, then later as a teaching assistant in AcuSport Education. He has been certified in Sports Medicine Acupuncture since 2011 and is now the instructor for the Postural Assessment and Corrective Exercise class in our Sports Medicine Acupuncture Certification Program.
In his private practice, Ian has extensive experience treating athletes in rehabilitation and performance. He has spent years working with the elite athletes at Invictus as part of the rehab team at both Regional and CrossFit Games, including their 2014 Affiliate Cup gold.
In addition to his private practice, Ian is the instructor for both orthopedic disorders (TOD) and Advanced TOD at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. He is the current supervisor at the RIMAC center at the University of California San Diego where he supervises acupuncture students in treatment of UCSD collegiate athletes working along side the athletic trainers.
Ian is passionate about continuing his craft and education. He is focused on expanding his background in movement, biomechanics and rehabilitation studying a variety of methodologies, some that include: Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS), Postural Respiration (through the PRI institute), Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA), and the Eldoa Method by Guy Voyer.

Dr. Jamie Hampton, DAOM, L.Ac
Acupuncturist and Faculty at Acupuncture & Integrative Medical College
Jamie Hampton
Dr. Jamie Hampton, DAOM, L.Ac
Friday, March 31, 2023 Afternoon Workshop:
Painful Bladder Syndrome: A Practical Clinical Approach Using Acupuncture to the Pelvic Floor
Clinical approaches to Painful Bladder Syndrome: helping your patients to feel better. Often misdiagnosed, Painful Bladder Syndrome can quickly be addressed by using acupuncture to traditional points and stimulating strategic pelvic floor muscles, in addition to easy-to-learn and effective myofascial techniques.
Short Bio:
Dr. Jamie Hampton is a doctoral graduate of The American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the oldest TCM school in the US. She has worked in leading San Francisco Bay Area hospitals and clinics for the last 20 years with an emphasis on true integration and collaboration within fast paced clinical settings including the ICU.
As she was an adjunct professor through University of California San Francisco she also had the privilege of teaching grand rounds to medical students. This experience blossomed into a faculty position at the Acupuncture and Integrative Medical College in Berkeley, CA where she taught advanced needling technique, gynecology and advanced formula writing. This solidified her love of teaching and connecting with her students, conveying the power of TCM and all of its abilities.
I love getting patients that feel no one knows what to do with them, or that they have seen everyone else with little results. Connection is important, and I know I can help them, and I do. It is the power of what we can do that makes all the difference.” Currently, she teaches Pelvic Floor Acupuncture continuing education and is in private practice and clinical director at RESTORE DRY NEEDLING ( formerly San Francisco Dry Needling Clinic) and is an expert specializing in pelvic floor dysfunction and complex orthopedic cases in colorful and lively San Francisco Bay Area.

Joseph Bickle, L.Ac, C.SMA
Acupuncturist with Penny George Institute for Health and Healing
Joseph Bickle
Joseph Bickle L.Ac, C.SMA
Sunday, April 2, 2023 Morning Workshop:
The Anatomy, Physiology, and Treatment of Myofascial Trigger Points
This course is designed to build a better understanding of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) and strategies for incorporating them into your treatment. It will cover the anatomy and physiology of MTrPs from both a biomedical and Chinese/East Asian medical perspective. It will also cover various aspects of pain science as it relates to treatment strategies. Lastly, we will discuss the concept of treatment dosage. This will focus primarily on needle stimulation, but cover other aspects as well, with the primary goal of formulating treatment strategies.
Short Bio:
Joseph was first introduced to Chinese medicine in the early 2000s. He attended graduate school at Northwestern Health Sciences University and matriculated with a Masters of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in 2009. With a desire to further develop his skills he began studying Zheng Gu Tui Na under Frank Butler and Jen Resnick, and continues to study various styles of manipulation based medicine. Joseph has also studied Zang Fu Tui Na under Tom Bisio, and continues to work with the Barral Institute on various visceral techniques. In addition to manual therapies Joseph has also studied Dao Needling techniques under Brian Bowen, and is certified in trigger point dry needling through Myopain. In 2019 Joseph completed the Sports Medicine Acupuncture Certification program, and has continued to act as an assistant for Matt Callison and Brain Lau in the SMAC program and also in multiple cadaver dissections to the present day.
Joseph resides in Minneapolis, MN, working in the Allina Health Clinics system as a part of the Penny George Institute for Health and Healing. His focus is working with complex persistent pain conditions and chronic orthopedic issues. His approach concentrates on paring diagnostics with a combination of needling and manual techniques, including joint and visceral manipulation, in a test-treat-retest model . These passive therapies are then paired with specific corrective exercises and/or qi gong to assist the patient in neuro- and myofascial re-education.
Joseph believes a strong grasp of anatomy is one of the keys to understanding physical medicine, and that combining a robust understanding of anatomy with both western and eastern perspectives best positions providers to aid patients on their journey to recovery and wellbeing.

Niels Abele, MSc, MMed (PR China), C.SMA (USA)
Acupuncture and Myofascial Connections to Pelvic Girdle Pathologies
Niels Abele
Niels Abele, MSc, MMed (PR China), C.SMA (USA)
Thursday, March 30, 2023 Afternoon Workshop:
Acupuncture and Myofascial Connections to Pelvic Girdle Pathologies
This presentation will cover myofascial anatomy of the pelvic girdle and the relationship that the lower jiao organs play in orthopedic pain patterns such as sacroiliac joint pain, groin pain, hamstring injuries. From a TCM and osteopathic point of view, palpation assessment will be demonstrated. In addition, specific organ manipulation techniques along with acupuncture point protocols that directly affect access for greater organ manipulation and to decrease pain will be covered. Decreased organ mobility can be part of a complex fascial dysfunction that can cause chronic myofascial pain patterns.
Short Bio:
Niels Abele is a licensed acupuncturist and osteopath from Hamburg, Germany where he graduated from the Osteopathic Institute Germany and is certified by the Verband freier Osteopathen (VFO) osteopathic association. Niels holds a Diploma in Traditional Chinese Acupuncture from Ausbildungszentrum Nord/Kiel, Germany, a Master of Medicine in Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Tuina from Guangxi Traditional Chinese Medical University, a Master of Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Donau University Krems, and graduated in 2015 from the Sports Medicine Acupuncture Certification Program.
To deepen his academic knowledge in the fields of acupuncture and manual medicine, Niels completed further training in courses at Westminster University, Chengdu Traditional Chinese Medicine University and Leipzig Medical University. He is a member of the Fascia Research Society, the AGTCM e.V. and VFO. Niels runs a busy practice in the center of Hamburg and specializes in the treatment musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction from the layperson to competitive athletes. He is married and the father of two children.

Dr. Jenny Nieters, L.Ac. DACM
Jenny Nieters, L.Ac. DACM has a clinical practice in Alameda, California
Dr. Jenny Neiters
Dr. Jenny Neiters
Sunday, April 2, 2023 Morning Workshop:
Lumbopelvic Stability (Part 1): Core Muscles
The modern epidemic of prolonged sitting can cause patients to develop low back pain, poor posture, paradoxical breathing, anxiety, pelvic floor dysfunction, chronically tight hip flexors and hamstrings.
Treatment of the diaphragm and core muscles can help provide relief from symptoms. This course will look at anatomy, assessment and treatment of anatomically significant zones to optimize the function of the core muscles
Sunday, April 2, 2023 Afternoon Workshop:
Lumbopelvic Stability (Part 2): Low Back and Hip
This course will identify key zones for treatment which can have an impact on the biomechanics of the whole body and provide relief for one-sided symptoms such as back pain or hip pain. Every step we take without pelvic stability puts excessive load on the joints, which can lead to injury or degeneration. This course will look at anatomy, assessment and treatment of anatomically significant zones to support lumbopelvic stability, including the gluteus medius, the quadratus lumborum and the internal abdominal obliques. This is a common treatment in my practice for athletes looking to optimize speed and power and also frequently used in my clinical practice to support resilience and movement in all populations.
Short Bio:
Jenny Nieters, L.Ac. DACM has a clinical practice in Alameda, California, specializing in the assessment and treatment of sports injuries, pain and athletic performance. Dr. Nieters is a team acupuncturist for the SF 49ers Football team and the Saint Mary’s College Men’s Rugby team. She has been teaching continuing education for acupuncturists as part of Whitfield Reaves Sports Medicine Apprenticeship program and has also developed her own courses for advanced study of sports injuries and athletic performance. Her enthusiasm and concise treatment style make Jenny’s presentations enjoyable and always clinical relevant.
PSOAS Schedule
The PSOAS event runs Thursday to Sunday, March 30-April 2, 2023, from 8:30am-5:15pm PST. There will be a post conference all day workshop held on Monday, April 3 from 9am-5:00pm.
Thursday, 03/30
Qi Gong & Movement Exercises
7:00am – 7:30am
Brian Lau
Morning Presentations
Opening & Overview 8:00am-8:30am
Brian Lau
8:30am-9:30am
Break 9:30am-9:45am
Dr. Dan Bensky
9:45am-10:45am
Break 10:45am-11:00am
Andy Ellis
11:00am-12:00pm
Lunch 12:00pm-1:45pm
Afternoon Workshops
Brian Lau
1:45pm – 3:30pm
3:30pm-4:00pm – Break
4:00pm – 5:15pm
Niels Abele
1:45pm – 3:30pm
3:30pm-4:00pm – Break
4:00pm – 5:15pm
Andy Ellis
1:45pm – 3:30pm
3:30pm-4:00pm – Break
4:00pm – 5:15pm
Friday, 03/31
Qi Gong & Movement Exercises
7:00am – 7:30am
Brian Lau
Morning Presentations
Opening & Overview 8:15am-8:30am
Dr. Anthony Von der Muhll
8:30am-9:30am
Break 9:30am-9:45am
Dr. Rebecca Pratt
9:45am-10:45am
Break 10:45am-11:00am
Matt Callison
11:00am-12:00pm
Lunch 12:00pm-1:45pm
Afternoon Workshops
Dr. Arya Nielsen
1:45pm – 3:30pm
3:30pm-4:00pm – Break
4:00pm – 5:15pm
Dr. Anthony Von der Muhll
1:45pm – 3:30pm
3:30pm-4:00pm – Break
4:00pm – 5:15pm
Dr. Jaime Hampton
1:45pm – 3:30pm
3:30pm-4:00pm – Break
4:00pm – 5:15pm
Saturday, 04/01
Qi Gong & Movement Exercises
7:00am – 7:30am
Brian Lau
Three Workshops – All Day
Opening & Overview 8:15am-8:30am
Presenters:
Dr. Antonio Stecco
Dr. Michael Corradino
Dr. Ayla Wolf
Morning Session
8:30am-9:45 am
9:45-10:00 Break
10:00am -12:00pm
Lunch 12:00pm-1:45pm
Afternoon Session
1:45pm – 3:30pm
3:30pm-4:00pm – Break
4:00pm – 5:15pm
Sunday, 04/02
Qi Gong & Movement Exercises
7:00am – 7:30am
Brian Lau
Morning Presentations
Opening & Overview 8:15am -8:30am
Ian Armstrong
8:30am-9:45 am
9:45am-10:00am Break
10:00am -12:00am
Dr. Jenny Nieters
8:30am-9:45 am
9:45am- 10:00am Break
10:00am – 12:00am
Joseph Bickle
8:30am-9:45 am
9:45- 10:00 Break
10:00am – 12:00pm
Lunch 12:00pm-1:45pm
Afternoon Workshops
Ian Armstrong
1:45pm – 3:30pm
3:30pm-4:00pm – Break
4:00pm – 5:15pm
Dr. Jenny Nieters
1:45pm – 3:30pm
3:30pm-4:00pm – Break
4:00pm – 5:15pm
Matt Callison
1:45pm – 3:30pm
3:30pm-4:00pm – Break
4:00pm – 5:15pm
Monday, 04/03
Post-Conference All Day Workshop
Matt Callison L.Ac.
Morning Session 9:00am-12:00pm
Lunch 12:00pm-1:45pm
Afternoon Session 1:45pm – 5:00pm
18
awesome lectures and workshops from the field’s top researchers and practitioners!
Marina Village
Conference Center
San Diego, CA 92109
Held in beautiful Mission Bay, San Diego, California, the PSOAS will take place at the Marina Village Conference Center located at 1936 Quivira Way, San Diego, California.
Pacific Sports and Orthopedic Acupuncture Symposium (PSOAS)
Discounted rates are available at The Dana on Mission Bay. Reservations can be made by clicking HERE or calling the Reservations Department at 800-445-3339 and mentioning the “Pacific Sports & Orthopedic Acupuncture Symposium.” Guests will receive complimentary overnight parking for the duration of their stay.
Contact info.psoasevent@gmail.com for other inquiries.