Accessibility & Translations
Beyond the Core: Pressure, Pelvic Floor, and the Conversations We’re Not Having About Back Pain

Beyond the Core: Pressure, Pelvic Floor, and the Conversations We’re Not Having About Back Pain

Only available as part of a package

Abstract:
Despite comprehensive rehabilitation and performance programs, tactical athletes and active populations often suffer from recurring back pain. Traditional approaches may overlook core contributors such as dysfunctional breathing, impaired intra-abdominal pressure regulation, and pelvic floor dysfunction. This session addresses these gaps and equips athletic trainers with the clinical insight and communication tools to identify, explain, and treat these complex cases, especially when symptoms cross into “awkward” or sensitive territory. Participants will learn to normalize difficult conversations and integrate holistic bracing strategies into their evaluation and intervention plans.

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify overlooked biomechanical and physiological contributors to persistent back pain, including the role of pressure regulation, diaphragmatic function, and pelvic floor coordination.
  • Choose effective cueing strategies for breathing and bracing patterns that promote intra-abdominal pressure and lumbar stability.
  • Recognize when red flags or "systems" symptoms (e.g., urinary leakage, GI distress, sexual dysfunction) warrant referral or modification of care.
  • Apply strategies for navigating sensitive health discussions to improve patient compliance, outcomes, and long-term function.

Level:
Mastery

Domain(s):
Domain 1: Risk Reduction Wellness and Health Literacy 
Domain 2: Assessment Evaluation and Diagnosis 
Domain 4: Therapeutic Intervention

Orthopedic Domain(s):
Domain 1: Medical Knowledge

Keywords:
Tactica Athlete; Diaphragm; Pressure Management

CEUs:
1.0 Category A

A Statement of Credit reflecting your CEUs will be issued immediately upon the successful completion of all course components. 


Course Expiration: 
All sessions of the NATA 77th Symposia On-Demand must be completed by December 31, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. CST.
For full details, refer to the expiration policy on our FAQ page.

Brittany Braun, DAT, ATC, CSCS

Brittany Braun, DAT, MSEd, LAT, ATC, CSCS, RYT-200hr, is an Athletic Trainer with extensive experience in military and tactical human performance. Currently serving as a Military Athletic Trainer with the U.S. Navy, Brittany integrates breathing mechanics, pressure management, and pelvic floor function to improve movement efficiency and reduce low back pain in high-demand populations.

She earned her Doctorate in Athletic Training from Moravian University, her Master’s in Education with a concentration in Athletic Training from Old Dominion University, and her Bachelor’s in Athletic Training from Alma College.

Brittany’s scholarly work and clinical practice explore the relationship between the diaphragm, pelvic floor, and core stability, translating current evidence into practical, evidence-informed strategies that bridge the gap between rehabilitation and performance. Her approach emphasizes holistic, functional solutions that challenge traditional views of back pain and promote sustainable movement for both tactical and civilian athletes.

Michelle Parr, PT, DPT, ATC

Michelle Vail, PT, DPT, LAT, ATC is a physical therapist and athletic trainer who specializes in pelvic floor physical therapy in the tactical athlete community. Her expertise lies in optimizing human performance by addressing the interconnected systems of the body, with an emphasis on incorporating pelvic health into functional training and rehabilitation.  Michelle is passionate about enabling individuals to overcome pain and dysfunction and resorting their capacity to perform at high levels both in daily life and demanding physical environments. 

Michelle completed her degree in athletic training at Purdue University and obtained her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Army-Baylor University. She combines her understanding of biomechanics, tactical performance, and rehabilitation to develop individualized programs that empower service members to return to peak readiness and achieve higher levels of resilience and performance.

This content will not be available until 07/31/2026 at 12:00 AM (CDT)