Session Announcement: Comprehensive MSK and Pain Management Education

The Utah Academy of Physician Assistants is pleased to announce two complementary sessions addressing musculoskeletal medicine and pain management at the 2026 Red Rock CME Conference.

 

Session Details

Thursday, March 26, 2026
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Dixie Center, St. George, Utah

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Session 1: Orthopedic Decision Making in Primary Care

9:00 AM - 9:25 AM
Presenter: Kelsey Gleason, PA-C

Session Overview

This case-based presentation addresses the critical orthopedic decisions primary care and urgent care providers face daily. Through real-world scenarios, attendees will develop systematic approaches to evaluating and managing common musculoskeletal injuries.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this session, participants will be able to:

• Evaluate and manage injuries of the shoulder, hip, elbow, knee, and ankle using evidence-based approaches
• Identify clinical presentations requiring prompt orthopedic referral versus those appropriate for primary care management
• Determine when imaging studies will meaningfully impact clinical management decisions
• Implement appropriate office-based interventions, including bracing and activity restrictions
• Effectively communicate realistic expectations and prognoses with patients

Clinical Focus

This presentation emphasizes practical decision-making tools that can be immediately implemented in clinical practice, reducing unnecessary referrals while ensuring appropriate specialty care when indicated.

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Session 2: Optimizing the Continuum of Care in Pain Management: From Primary Care Provider Evaluation to Advanced Pain Management Interventions

9:25 AM - 9:50 AM
Presenter: Shaun Young, PA-C

Session Overview

This session bridges the gap between initial primary care evaluation and specialized pain management interventions. Participants will learn to conduct comprehensive pain assessments and understand when and how to involve pain management specialists in patient care.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this session, participants will be able to:

• Identify key components of a comprehensive pain assessment in primary care, including history, physical examination, diagnostic testing, and appropriate initial treatment strategies
• Establish clear criteria for timely referral to pain management specialists based on complexity, diagnostic uncertainty, and response to first-line therapies
• Describe advanced interventional procedures available for chronic spinal pain syndromes and neuropathies, including their indications, mechanisms, and expected outcomes

Clinical Application

This presentation provides practical frameworks for pain evaluation and management, helping providers optimize patient outcomes through appropriate care coordination and timely specialist involvement.

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Why Attend These Sessions

These sequential presentations offer a comprehensive approach to musculoskeletal medicine, addressing both acute injury management and chronic pain care. The 50-minute combined format allows for in-depth exploration of interconnected topics while maintaining practical, clinically applicable focus.

Key Benefits:

• Evidence-based protocols for common clinical scenarios
• Clear referral guidelines to optimize specialist utilization
• Practical interventions applicable immediately in practice
• Enhanced patient communication strategies
• Understanding of advanced treatment options available through specialty care

Continuing Medical Education

These sessions are part of the 2026 Red Rock CME Conference offering 21 CME credits (pending AAPA accreditation). The conference features over 20 expert speakers presenting current, clinically relevant content essential for modern PA practice.

Registration Information

Conference Dates: March 26-28, 2026
Location: Dixie Center, St. George, Utah
Format: In-person only

Additional Conference Highlights

• Keynote presentations on neuro-oncology and psychosomatic medicine
• Special "Pearls Focus" sessions across multiple specialties
• Trauma-informed care training
• Networking opportunities with PAs from across the western United States
• Location near five national parks, including Zion (30 minutes away)

Questions?

For more information about these sessions or the 2026 Red Rock CME Conference, please contact: utahapa.info@gmail.com