Postural Restoration Trained (PRT)

Each year, this image pops up on my Facebook Memories towards the end of July, when I was working on my PRC application back in 2011. I was a full time PT at the Hruska Clinic at the time, and just two years out of PT school. I began taking courses when I was still in PT school, had an awesome clinical instructor Lori Thomsen for one of my final clinical rotations, and landed my dream job after graduation at the Hruska Clinic. I was surrounded by the best mentors ever, yet I must admit that I was a little scared at the thought of completing the PRC application and testing. However, having been on both sides (a scared and nervous applicant, now 12 years ago, and today the Director of Education and Credentialing running the show), here are some tips to hopefully ease your anxiety about the process.

Unsure about taking the next step towards PRI Credentialing? Check out what others have said about their PRC credentialing experience and PRT credentialing experience!

My Top 3 tips for preparing your PRC or PRT application:

1. Set aside larger chunks of time to work on your application.
When I first started my application, I was working on it for a couple hours at a time in the evening, or when I had a patient cancellation during the day. But, I found that by the time I would get my stuff out (all of my course binders, my case study patient charts, stacks of research articles, etc), and I mentally prepared myself to get started, I didn't have much time to get actual work done on my application. Therefore, I found my groove when I set aside a full Saturday (which is what this picture is representing from 12 years ago). I set up a table to work, had all of my course manuals accessible and I got major work done! I did this a couple more days over the next couple months and finished the application. It isn't too late to start on your application for this year, if you are able to dedicate a couple weekends to the process.

2. The review committee isn't looking for perfection.

The application review is a peer-reviewed process (PRCs and PRTs). Each application is reviewed by two members of the review committee for which you are applying (either PRC or PRT), and their recommendations are provided for review by Ron and myself. Based on their feedback, we then determine if the applicant is prepared for testing, and the applicant then receives the reviewer's feedback. None of us are perfect in what we do, and thus the review committee is not looking for perfection. Rather, they want to see your 'thought process' and 'decision-making' with the PRI concepts from the four pre-requisite courses displayed on paper throughout your application. Therefore, I would recommend that even if you look back at a case study or client program that you put together and think "wow, I would have totally not selected that technique now that I know more...." (that is fine), you can still use that case study, and at the end of your case study discussion, reflect on what you would do different now (and why....knowing what you know now, that you didn't know then).

3. The application in itself is an educational experience.

I hear this often when people are here for PRC and PRT testing, and I felt the same way myself. I learned SO much when I was preparing my application. It forced me to review content from the courses and find answers to questions that I still had myself. I vividly remember that I didn't fully understand the Superior T4 Syndrome until this day 12 years ago, when I went back and studied my manual, watched the home study course again and reviewed the manual techniques. I had an 'ah-ha' moment in preparing my application that day. The application made me reflect on my decision making process, consider what I might do different now, identify favorite techniques (which is difficult when there are so many), and it allowed me to realize how much I did know (even though there was still a lot I didn't know). This last one is important. Preparing your application is not an easy task, and it takes a lot of time, but it should give you a little boost of confidence (you are studying for the exam while you prepare your application), and that is the hidden gem. Last but not least, the feedback from the reviewer's is so incredibly helpful!

If you are considering applying for PRC or PRT, and you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me! The PRC application deadline (for testing in December) is September 15th and the PRT application deadline (for testing in January) is October 15th. 

I also recorded some videos a few years back, which I hope you will find helpful as you prepare your application. These videos can be found on the PRC page and PRT page of our website. 

We are excited to introduce and congratulate the Postural Restoration Trained™ (PRT) Class of 2023! PRT is the result of completing multiple advanced PRI courses, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the science through completion of the PRT application, and successfully participating in practical and analytical testing. This past weekend, five professionals earned the designation of Postural Restoration Trained (PRT) under the direction of Ron Hruska, Dan Houglum and Jennifer Platt.

The Postural Restoration Institute® established this credentialing process in 2011 as a way to recognize and identify individuals with advanced training, extraordinary interest and devotion to the science of postural adaptations, asymmetrical patterns and the influence of polyarticular chains of muscles on the human body as defined by the Postural Restoration Institute®. The PRT credential is available to Certified Athletic Trainers, Certified Athletic Therapists, Exercise Physiologists and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists who have completed the course requirements, application and testing process. With the addition of this class, there are now 68 PRT professionals throughout the U.S and Internationally.

To view/download the photos click here.

Back Row (L to R): Dan Houglum, Colby Mamigonian, Joshua Elleman, Colin Kidwell
Frong Row (L to R): Ron Hruska, Nick Rosencutter, Aleena Kanner, Jennifer Platt

Posted January 10, 2023 at 9:49PM

"Balancing Breathing and Autonomic Nervous System Function through Music and Dance"

The AAPMD conference in Phoenix was one of the most satisfying experiences I’ve ever had. I met so many kind and caring professionals with intense passion for making airway health a priority in our medical system, as it truly should be.

I was asked to give a presentation about how to use music and dance to balance autonomic nervous system function. Luckily for me, one of the founders of the organization is my dentist and he knows all about my PRI endeavors. But it was when I talked about salsa, and how I can change range of motion tests through music and movement, that his interest was piqued.

I reflected a lot yesterday evening after most people had gone home. I ate dinner with an amazing SLP and she believes that the educational system failed me when I was young. Perhaps it did. I don’t know, but apparently I was never the “perfect idiot” that my 6th grade math teacher said I was. Although I never believed I was dumb, my school performance was usually just average (3rd Pic). My self confidence plummeted and never really recovered until my late 20s/early 30s. But it did recover and that has made all the difference.

When accomplished individuals like Ron Hruska and Dr. Howard Hindin believe in you, you start to think beyond your usual limited horizons.



You never know what you can achieve, who you can inspire, and how many people you can help. My path certainly wasn’t what I ever expected nor desired, but you take life as it comes and make the most of your opportunities when they arise.

I’m so grateful for the AAPMD, Postural Restoration and Jose at the Just 1 Dance Studio and my acting teacher Clara Rutt for allowing me to bring all my passions together for an unforgettable experience.

The PRI Credentialing Scholarship application deadline is just a few days away. If you are interested in applying, please make sure your essay is emailed to Jennifer Platt by June 15th!

This $2000 full scholarship is available to candidates who may otherwise be dissuaded from applying for PRC or PRT credentialing solely by their current financial circumstances. To apply, please submit a scholarship essay sharing your story of how you got to where you are (i.e. how you became interested in PRI, do you have any mentors or colleagues supporting you on this education journey, etc.), your current professional and financial situation, what PRI credentialing means to you, and why you feel you are deserving of the scholarship.

All essays will be reviewed by the PRI Board of Directors, and the scholarship recipient will be notified by July 15th. If the recipient of the $2000 full scholarship does not accept the scholarship and complete the credentialing application and testing within the year, the scholarship will be awarded to an alternate. Depending on the number of applications each year, the Board of Directors may choose to select more than one scholarship recipient.

If you have any questions with the PRI Credentialing Scholarship, or any questions with the PRC or PRT credentialing process in general, please contact me!

Pro-Active Physical Therapy in beautiful Fort Collins, CO hosted Cervical Revolution this past weekend. This was a unique gathering of not only first timers to Cervical Revolution but seasoned veterans of PRI including a total of four faculty members and four PRC/PRT's. Included in the group was a local dentist, Dr. Behar Esmaili, who brought an enthusiastic perspective on how occlusion affects the entire physiologic and postural system. The subject of a stomatognathic consideration to the cervical, cranial and occlusal system with the cervical spine as the primary driver of the system was reinforced this weekend.

Postural Restoration is an interdisciplinary institute and that was reflected in the backgrounds of the attendees. Cervical Revolution bridges a gap, as does PRI, with many professions with respiration sacred to physical therapists, the atlas/spine with chiropractors, the cranium with osteopaths and occlusion with dentists. Mix in ATC's and fitness professionals for performance and this course, as well as every other PRI course, has a wide appeal and utilization for many health care disciplines.

Having four faculty members in attendance is rare unless a course is given in Lincoln and the energy with vast clinical expertise of Louise Kelley, DPT, Jason Miller, DPT and Craig Deperschmidt, DPT was appreciated by all. Louise Kelley, DPT will soon be ready to teach Cervical Revolution and her ability to describe testing and non-manual techniques, especially the Standing Stomatognathic Squat, was a "bonus" contribution to the weekend and was also greatly appreciated. The discussion of the A/O articulation being highly neurologic/autonomic went from a theoretical consideration in opening remarks to real lab experience when several "extension driven" students, with PRI Cervical repositioning non-manual techniques, got to experience first hand what neutral feels like. Thanks to all of the Pro-Active Staff for hosting this past weekend and this entire group of professionals that took time out of their schedules to "revolve" with us!

We are excited to announce that we will soon begin offering a PRI Mini Residency Program, a formal program of post-professional education and mentorship for PRI-minded healthcare and movement professionals that is designed to enhance one’s understanding and application of PRI concepts, objective testing, and patient/client management. The foundational science from the Postural Restoration Institute’s three primary courses will be strongly emphasized by all PRI Mini Residency Centers, however each PRI Mini Residency Center offers a unique environment and experience, and many residency centers will also include exposure to interdisciplinary integration with other healthcare or movement professionals.   

This PRI Mini Residency Program is designed for healthcare or movement professionals who are self-directed learners, have completed the required PRI coursework, and would like to enhance their clinical reasoning, interpersonal communication and dialogue using PRI terminology with other professionals as well as patients or clients, and application skills of the science of Postural Restoration® through one-on-one clinical education and mentorship with a PRC or PRT professional at a PRI Mini Residency Center.

To learn more about this 6-week PRI Mini Residency Program, please CLICK HERE! And stay tuned for more information coming soon to our website, including information about the approved PRI Mini Residency Centers and the application for those interested in completing a PRI Mini Residency Program!

We are excited to introduce and congratulate our second Postural Restoration Trained (PRT) Class of this year! Every 3rd year, we offer the option of a summer testing program, in addition to the annual PRT testing dates that are held each January. This summer testing program was rescheduled from last year due to the COVID pandemic, so a few of these individuals have waited an extra year for this opportunity. PRT is the result of completing multiple advanced PRI courses, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the science through completion of the PRT application, and successfully participating in practical and analytical testing. This past weekend, four professionals earned the designation of Postural Restoration Trained (PRT) under the direction of Ron Hruska, Jason Masek and Jennifer Platt.

The Postural Restoration Institute® established this credentialing process in 2011 as a way to recognize and identify individuals with advanced training, extraordinary interest and devotion to the science of postural adaptations, asymmetrical patterns and the influence of polyarticular chains of muscles on the human body as defined by the Postural Restoration Institute®. The PRT credential is available to Athletic Trainers (with Certification through the BOC), Athletic Therapists (with Certification through the CATA), Strength and Conditioning Coaches (with CSCS Certification through the NSCA or SCCC Certification through the CSCCa), Certified Special Population Specialist (with CSPS Certification through the NSCA, and completion of a Bachelor's degree or higher degree), and Exercise Physiologists (with Certification through the ACSM) who have completed the course requirements, application and testing process. With the addition of this class, there are now 63 PRT professionals throughout the U.S and Internationally.

Back Row (L to R): Jon Sanderson, Crystal Thomas, Steve Lintern, Jason Masek
Front Row (L to R): Ron Hruska, Andrew Xenophontos, Jennifer Platt

To view the full photo album CLICK HERE!

Posted July 12, 2021 at 7:36PM

The annual PRI Credentialing Scholarship application deadline is June 15th! This $2000 full scholarship is available to candidates who may otherwise be dissuaded from applying for PRC or PRT credentialing solely by their current financial circumstances. To apply, please submit a scholarship essay sharing your story, your current professional situation, and why you feel you are deserving of the scholarship. Essays can be emailed to Jennifer Platt at platt.jennifer@posturalrestoration.com. All essays will be reviewed by the PRI Board of Directors and the scholarship recipient will be notified by July 15th. If the recipient of the $2000 full scholarship does not accept the scholarship and complete the credentialing application and testing within the year, the scholarship will be awarded to an alternate. Depending on the number of applications each year, the Board of Directors may choose to select more than one scholarship recipient.

If you have any questions with the PRI Credentialing Scholarship, or any questions with the PRC or PRT credentialing process in general, please contact me!

This past week, at our Annual Interdisciplinary Integration Symposium, we presented the PRI Director’s Dedication Award to two very deserving individuals who not only were very instrumental in this year's symposium, but they have had a tremendous impact on our Institute over the years, and we have no doubt that they will continue to represent our Institute in the highest regard for many years to come. It was an easy decision to present this award to Jennifer Smart and Neal Hallinan. The PRI Director’s Dedication Award was established by the Board of Directors (Ron Hruska, Janie Ebmeier, Jennifer Platt and Bobbie Rappl) in 2012 to recognize individuals’ ongoing dedication to their advancement in PRI.

Past PRI Director’s Dedication Award recipients include: Susan Henning and Joe Belding (December 2012); Kyndall Boyle and James Anderson (April 2014); Michael Cantrell (December 2014); Jason Masek (April 2015); Michal Niedzielski (December 2015); Jennifer Poulin and Lori Thomsen (April 2017); Kentaro Ishii and Sayuri Abe-Hiraishi (December 2017); and Dan Houglum, Donna Parise Byrne & Josh Olinick (April 2019). An award recognition plaque, which is pictured above, is displayed at the Postural Restoration Institute® in Lincoln, Nebraska, recognizing each of the PRI Directors Dedication Award recipients.

Jennifer Smart is a Physical Therapist in Oriental, North Carolina, a town of approximately 900 people located on Neuse River which leads out to the Atlantic Ocean. Jen received her bachelors of physical therapy degree from the University of Maryland, and her doctorate of physical therapy degree from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. She took her first PRI course in 2012, and completed PRC credentialing in 2015. Over the years, she has continued to immerse herself in the science of Postural Restoration® for the benefit of her patients, having completed 32 PRI courses. Over the past 3 years especially, Ron and Jen have been on a wave length of their own as they have spent copious hours preparing for this symposium, and I know that Ron has learned so much from Jen and her clinical experience working daily with patients who have been diagnosed with basal ganglia disease. I can honestly say that they have easily exchanged more than 100 email conversation threads, and I know that Ron has thoroughly enjoyed every one of them. I have no doubt that the breadth of knowledge that has resulted from this symposium will continue to grow, as the Institute becomes more relative in the prevention and management of neurological degenerative conditions. Many of you were able to see her passion as she presented at this symposium, and hopefully you whole-heartedly agreed with us that she was so deserving of this award!

Neal Hallinan is a certified strength and conditioning specialist and licensed massage therapist in New Jersey, just outside of New York City. To many, he might be known as “The PRI Trainer”, which has come through his website, podcasts and many YouTube videos. Neal attended his first PRI course in 2013, and he completed PRT credentialing in 2017. And he didn’t stop there. Over the years, Neal has completed 27 PRI courses. Neal’s personal journey and experience with PRI changed his career, and he will even say it changed his life. Through his passion to share his journey and experience with PRI both personally and as a movement specialist offering online coaching, he has easily touched 1,000’s across the country and internationally. There isn’t a week that goes by where one of us in this office doesn’t talk to someone who heard about PRI through Neal Hallinan’s website or videos. I am sure you have all heard patients or clients bring up his name as well! We not only were honored to have had Neal involved with this symposium, but we are so honored to have him represent this Institute as he continues to impact other’s lives through his nature of educating and coaching. We have no doubt that he will continue to help people discover their innate alternating rhythms through movement and dance for many years to come, and we were incredibly honored to present Neal Hallinan with the PRI Director's Dedication Award.

Congratulations to both Jen and Neal! We are so honored and proud to know you and have you associated with our Institute!

Neal Hallinan, CSCS, LMT, PRT will join Jennifer Smart and Ron Hruska as a presenter at this year's 12th Annual Interdisciplinary Integration Symposium. Neal has a unique understanding of the science of PRI, through his first hand experience as both a patient and a Postural Restoration Trained (PRT) provider, working with clients both locally in the NYC area and from the across the world. Although his first career began in the IT field, he sought out to find something he was truly passionate about, which was movement. Years of nagging pain led him to discover that movement could be healing. During a period of time spent living in Brazil, Neal first recognized the freedom of movement that many people living there expressed through dance. As the introduction and interest in this art of expression grew, Neal spent considerable time learning the steps and sequences of various styles of dance and fell in love with the influences of rhythm, percussion and beats that were included.

Neal began his journey with PRI in 2013, when he completed the three primary home study courses. He then went on to take many secondary and tertiary courses over the next several years, and continues to be very active within our Institute. "This was it" Neal recalls, as he had finally found answers to the patterns and positions he had noticed over time in his own body. He recalls his own personal journey changing when he could fully appreciate grounding and true sensory integration for the first time and discusses how in today's virtual world he tries to help his clients achieve the same level of sensory awareness through the use of PRI-based principles and techniques. Neal's interest in latin dance motion and so many other forms of rhythmic movement provided a natural fit to this years Symposium, focusing Basal Ganglia Disease and the management of kinesia paradoxica.

Learn more about Neal's upcoming presentations below, and also check out the most recent podcast episode where Neal, along with Ron Hruska discuss how these presentations will tie into movement disorders. 

Inhibiting Inhibitions: Rediscovering Your Innate Alternating Rhythms Through Dance
-Neal Hallinan, CSCS, LMT, PRT

Dance is a fantastic way to get back in touch with the natural alternating rhythms of your body. This presentation will discuss the challenges of learning and teaching dance, how to find "the beat", and overcoming the inhibitions that hold us back. Please have space available for learning some foundational dance steps.
 

"How Do You Initiate Rhythmic Movement Provided by The Body For the Feet To Move?"
-Neal Hallinan, CSCS, LMT, PRT
Learning to dance traditionally starts with the feet. That's the easy part. Obtaining fluidity of movement requires integrated use of the thorax, arms, and head to produce a particular "style". I will introduce common elements of styling including: spinning/turning, contra-body motion, arm movement, and Cuban/Latin motion.

Posted March 23, 2021 at 5:44PM
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