Inspirational journeys
Follow the stories of academics and their research expeditions
Myofascial Therapy Certification Program (CMFT)
MYOFASCIAL THERAPY CERTIFICATION PROGRAM (CMFT)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
IPTA-MFT-CERT-v1.0-2025 · Version 1.0 (2025) · Hybrid (Online + Face to Face) · 6 Days · 64 CPD Hours · 3 Months
The Certified Myofascial Therapy (CMFT) program is a comprehensive, post-graduate-level certification designed by the International Physical Therapy Academy (IPTA) for physiotherapists seeking advanced expertise in myofascial concepts, assessment, and treatment. Delivered over 3 months in a hybrid format — combining 16 hours of online distance learning with 6 intensive face-to-face days — the program covers the full spectrum of myofascial therapy: fascial anatomy and chains, visceral fascia, fascial manipulation, indirect and direct myofascial release, fascia rolling, myofascial training, and pain neuroscience. Participants develop advanced skills in musculoskeletal and visceral assessment, evidence-based clinical reasoning, and hands-on therapeutic techniques. The program is accredited by IPTA and the International Physical Therapy Network (IPTN), and carries 64 IPTA-accredited CPD hours. Graduates earn the CMFT credential and are equipped to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal and visceral conditions using integrated myofascial approaches.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
01. PROGRAM INFORMATION
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Program Title: Myofascial Therapy Certification Program
Credential Awarded: Certified Myofascial Therapy Practitioner (CMFT)
Program Code: IPTA-MFT-CERT-v1.0-2025
Version: 1.0 (2025)
Program Type: Certification Program
Program Mode: Hybrid — Online Distance Learning (16 hrs) + Face to Face (Theory, Practical & Hands-On)
Program Level: Advanced (Post-Graduate)
Program Duration: 6 Face-to-Face Days · 3 Months total (including online pre-program and assessment periods)
Total CPD Hours: 64 CPD Hours — IPTA accredited
Theory / Practical Ratio: 30% Theory · 70% Practical & Hands-On
Developed By: International Physical Therapy Academy (IPTA)
Reviewed By: IPTA Review Committee
Review Cycle: Every 3 Years
Target Discipline: Physiotherapy — Graduates Only
Accreditation: International Physical Therapy Academy (IPTA) · International Physical Therapy Network (IPTN)
Guidelines: International Physical Therapy Academy (IPTA)
Effective Date: 2025
------------------------------------------------------------------------
02. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The CMFT program equips physiotherapy graduates with specialized, post-graduate-level knowledge and hands-on proficiency in the full spectrum of myofascial therapy approaches. Spanning 3 months and delivered in a hybrid format, the program combines structured online learning with six intensive face-to-face days of practical and hands-on training. The curriculum is organized into five core clinical modules — Fascial Manipulation I (Structural), Fascial Manipulation II (Visceral), Myofascial Roll, Myofascial Release, and Myofascial Fitness & Integration — each combining theory, supervised practical sessions, hands-on training, and direct observation of clinical performance. Assessment methods include online theory examinations, article criticism, group case study presentations, and a final direct observation practical examination. Graduates emerge as competent, evidence-informed myofascial therapy practitioners, equipped to manage musculoskeletal and visceral conditions using advanced integrated approaches.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
03. PROGRAM INTRODUCTION & RATIONALE
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Clinical / Professional Need
----------------------------
The myofascial system — comprising fascia, connective tissue chains, and myofascial trigger points — plays a central role in musculoskeletal pain, movement dysfunction, and visceral health across a broad spectrum of clinical presentations. Despite growing evidence for the clinical significance of myofascial dysfunction, many physiotherapists lack access to a structured, internationally accredited program that comprehensively covers myofascial assessment and the full range of therapeutic approaches at an advanced level. The CMFT program addresses this gap, providing a rigorous, competency-based pathway for physiotherapists seeking to specialize in myofascial therapy for both musculoskeletal and visceral conditions.
Evidence Base & Alignment
-------------------------
The program is grounded in current evidence in fascial anatomy, neurophysiology, pain neuroscience, biomechanics, and myofascial therapy research. It integrates internationally recognized approaches — including fascial manipulation (structural and visceral), indirect and direct myofascial release, fascial rolling, and myofascial fitness — alongside the latest clinical evidence and guidelines. All content is aligned with IPTA guidelines and reviewed by the IPTA Scientific Council. The program is accredited by the International Physical Therapy Network (IPTN).
Alignment with IPTA Mission
---------------------------
This program advances IPTA's mission to empower physiotherapy professionals worldwide through high-standard, evidence-based continuing education. It supports IPTA's strategic goal of promoting international standards in physiotherapy education and research, and reflects IPTA's recognition as an Affiliating Body by the International Physical Therapy Network (IPTN).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
04. TARGET AUDIENCE
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Primary Audience: Licensed physiotherapy graduates seeking advanced specialization in myofascial therapy and fascial concepts
Secondary Audience: Experienced physiotherapists in musculoskeletal, sports, rehabilitation, or visceral health settings wishing to advance their myofascial therapy competencies
Career Stage: Post-graduate level — all career stages; content is advanced
Program Level: Advanced (Post-Graduate)
Geographic Scope: International — open to practitioners worldwide
Group Size (Typical): Small group format as per IPTA program delivery guidelines to ensure practical quality
Who Should Attend — Ideal Candidate Profile
-------------------------------------------
· Physiotherapy graduates working in musculoskeletal, sports, orthopaedic, or rehabilitation settings who wish to develop advanced myofascial assessment and treatment skills.
· Practitioners interested in expanding into visceral fascia assessment and treatment using evidence-based myofascial approaches.
· Clinicians seeking an internationally accredited, post-graduate level credential (CMFT) to evidence advanced myofascial therapy competency.
· Physiotherapists aiming to specialize in pain management, movement optimization, and integrated myofascial care across musculoskeletal and visceral presentations.
Who Should NOT Attend
------------------------
· Non-physiotherapy healthcare professionals — this program is designed specifically for physiotherapy graduates.
· Current physiotherapy students who have not yet completed their degree qualification.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
05. PROGRAM OBJECTIVES & LEARNING OUTCOMES
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Upon completion of this program, participants will be able to:
General Objectives
------------------------
1. Develop comprehensive understanding of the structure and function of the myofascial system in both healthy and pathological states, through the study of fascial anatomy, physiology, pain management, and movement control.
2. Critically evaluate relevant scientific literature and apply evidence-based practice to the assessment and management of musculoskeletal and visceral conditions using myofascial approaches.
3. Demonstrate advanced clinical reasoning, effective communication, and refined practical skills in myofascial assessment and treatment.
4. Apply combined myofascial assessment tools — integrating fascial manipulation, myofascial release, fascial rolling, and myofascial training — within an evidence-based clinical framework.
5. Deliver advanced myofascial therapy using fascial manipulation (structural and visceral), indirect and direct myofascial release, fascia rolling, and myofascial fitness and integration techniques.
6. Demonstrate sound understanding of ethical and safety considerations in the treatment of patients with musculoskeletal and visceral myofascial conditions.
Knowledge (Cognitive Domain)
----------------------------
· Explain the anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics of the myofascial system, including fascial structure, chains, visceral fascia, and fascial lines.
· Describe pain neuroscience concepts relevant to myofascial dysfunction and treatment mechanisms.
· Identify and differentiate evidence-based myofascial therapy approaches — fascial manipulation, myofascial release (indirect and direct), fascia rolling, visceral manipulation, and myofascial fitness — and articulate their indications, contraindications, and clinical rationale.
· Critically appraise current myofascial therapy research and integrate findings into evidence-based clinical decision-making.
Skills (Psychomotor Domain)
---------------------------
· Perform advanced myofascial assessment using combined evaluation tools across musculoskeletal and visceral presentations.
· Apply structural fascial manipulation techniques with precision and clinical reasoning.
· Apply visceral fascial manipulation techniques safely and effectively for visceral myofascial conditions.
· Deliver myofascial release (indirect and direct), fascial rolling, and myofascial fitness and integration techniques across clinical presentations.
· Develop individualized, integrated myofascial therapy treatment plans to manage pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.
Attitudes & Professional Behaviours (Affective Domain)
------------------------------------------------------
· Demonstrate ethical, patient-centered practice aligned with IPTA's Code of Ethics and international physiotherapy standards.
· Promote patient safety, dignity, and cultural sensitivity throughout all assessment and treatment interactions.
· Engage critically with myofascial therapy evidence and commit to continuous professional development in this specialty area.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
06. CURRICULUM & MODULES
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The program is structured across two components: an online distance learning pre-program phase, followed by six intensive face-to-face days organized into five clinical modules.
Online Distance Learning — Pre-Program Phase (16 Hours over 3 Months)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Delivered via Zoom lectures (16 hours), self-reading materials (8 hours), and online knowledge assessments (4 hours) over the 3-month program period. Covers all foundational theoretical, practical, and research material required for the face-to-face modules.
Zoom Lectures — Online (synchronous)
Hours: 16 hrs
Content: Fascial anatomy & chains · Myofascial system physiology · Pain neuroscience · Evidence-based MFT practice · Introduction to all program modules · Clinical reasoning frameworks
Self-Reading Materials — Online (async)
Hours: 8 hrs
Content: E-book: theory, practical exercises, and research material · Online videos: visual demonstration of assessment and treatment techniques
Knowledge Assessment — Online (async)
Hours: 4 hrs
Content: Pre-program and module-level online theory examinations (MCQ + case studies)
Face-to-Face Clinical Modules — 6 Days (48 Hours Contact + Assessment)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
M1 — Fascial Manipulation I — Structural Fascial Manipulation
Theory: 4 hrs
Practical: 6 hrs
Hands-On: 6 hrs
Direct Obs.: 4 hrs
Total: 20 hrs
M2 — Fascial Manipulation II — Visceral Fascia & Visceral Manipulation
Theory: 2 hrs
Practical: 4 hrs
Hands-On: 2 hrs
Direct Obs.: 2 hrs
Total: 10 hrs
M3 — Myofascial Roll (Fascial Rolling Techniques)
Theory: 2 hrs
Practical: 4 hrs
Hands-On: 2 hrs
Direct Obs.: 2 hrs
Total: 10 hrs
M4 — Myofascial Release — Indirect & Direct Techniques
Theory: 2 hrs
Practical: 4 hrs
Hands-On: 2 hrs
Direct Obs.: 2 hrs
Total: 10 hrs
M5 — Myofascial Fitness & Integration
Theory: 2 hrs
Practical: 4 hrs
Hands-On: 2 hrs
Direct Obs.: 2 hrs
Total: 10 hrs
MF — Final Practical Examination — Direct Observation of Procedures
Theory: 1 hr — direct observation of clinical performance in practice
Face-to-Face Total (excl. final exam) — 60 hrs
Note: Each face-to-face module includes four group case study presentations (4 groups per module), open clinical discussions, and structured tutor feedback. Direct observation sessions within each module assess clinical performance before the final examination.
Curriculum Summary
------------------------
Online Distance Learning (Zoom): 16 hours — synchronous zoom lectures over 3-month period
Online Self-Reading (E-book + Videos): 8 hours — asynchronous self-study
Online Knowledge Assessment: 4 hours — pre-program and module MCQ + case study examinations
Face-to-Face Theory: 12 hours (30% of face-to-face contact)
Face-to-Face Practical & Hands-On: 36 hours (70% of face-to-face contact)
Direct Observation (within modules): 12 hours across all 5 clinical modules
Final Practical Exam (MF): 1 hour — direct observation of procedures
Total CPD Hours: 64 CPD Hours — IPTA accredited
Program Duration: 6 face-to-face days · 3 months total program period
------------------------------------------------------------------------
07. ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Minimum Qualification: Physiotherapy degree — Graduates Only. Current physiotherapy students are not eligible.
Prerequisites: Completion of online pre-program distance learning and online knowledge assessment before attending the face-to-face modules
License / Registration: Active physiotherapy registration recommended; may be required per local regulations
Language Proficiency: English — translation support available where local arrangements permit
Experience Preferred: Clinical experience in musculoskeletal or rehabilitation physiotherapy is beneficial but not required
Technical Requirements: Stable internet connection, webcam, and microphone for zoom lecture components; access to IPTA e-learning platform for self-study and online assessments
Pre-Program Obligation: Completion of online zoom lectures, self-reading materials, and knowledge assessment before attending face-to-face days is mandatory
------------------------------------------------------------------------
08. PARTICIPANT PREPARATION
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Online Pre-Program Distance Learning (Mandatory)
------------------------------------------------
All participants must complete the online component of the program — comprising 16 hours of zoom lectures, 8 hours of e-book self-reading, and 4 hours of online knowledge assessment — before attending the face-to-face clinical modules. Access to the IPTA e-learning platform, zoom lecture schedule, and e-book is provided upon enrollment. Participants are expected to engage actively with all online materials and complete the pre-program knowledge assessment before their first face-to-face day.
Online videos demonstrating assessment and treatment techniques are also provided as a preparatory resource, allowing participants to familiarize themselves with key techniques before the hands-on practical sessions.
Required Equipment & Materials — Participants Must Bring
--------------------------------------------------------
· Comfortable clinical attire for all practical and hands-on sessions — lab coat or scrubs required.
· Notebook or tablet for case study presentations, article criticism exercises, and clinical documentation tasks.
· Any personal assessment tools habitually used in clinical practice (e.g. tape measure, goniometer).
Lab / Venue-Provided Equipment
------------------------------
· Treatment plinths, pillows, and sheets for all practical and hands-on sessions.
· Fascial rolling tools and myofascial equipment relevant to the program modules, as specified by the program tutor prior to commencement.
· Program workbooks and printed reference materials (where provided).
Daily Schedule
------------------------
Daily Start Time: 09:00 (local time)
Daily End Time: 17:00 (local time) — 8 contact hours including scheduled breaks
Breaks: Multiple scheduled breaks throughout the day, including prayer and lunch break observed locally
Dress Code: Lab coat or scrubs required for all face-to-face practical and hands-on sessions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
09. PROGRAM SCHEDULE
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-Program (Online — 3 Months): Zoom lectures (16 hrs, synchronous) · E-book self-reading (8 hrs) · Online videos · Knowledge assessment (4 hrs) — all to be completed before face-to-face Day 1
Face-to-Face Day 1: M1: Fascial Manipulation I — Structural — Theory (4 hrs) + Practical (4 hrs)
Face-to-Face Day 2: M1 continued: Practical (2 hrs) + Hands-On (6 hrs) + Direct Observation (4 hrs) · Case study presentations (4 groups) · M1 theory examination
Face-to-Face Day 3: M2: Fascial Manipulation II — Visceral — Theory (2 hrs) + Practical (4 hrs) + Hands-On (2 hrs) + Direct Observation (2 hrs) · M3: Myofascial Roll — Theory (2 hrs) · Case study presentations
Face-to-Face Day 4: M3 continued: Practical (4 hrs) + Hands-On (2 hrs) + Direct Observation (2 hrs) · M4: Myofascial Release (Indirect & Direct) — Theory (2 hrs) + Practical (2 hrs)
Face-to-Face Day 5: M4 continued: Practical (2 hrs) + Hands-On (2 hrs) + Direct Observation (2 hrs) · M5: Myofascial Fitness & Integration — Theory (2 hrs) + Practical (4 hrs) + Hands-On (2 hrs) · Article criticism session
Face-to-Face Day 6: M5 continued: Direct Observation (2 hrs) · Final online theory examination · MF: Final Practical Exam — Direct Observation of Procedures (1 hr) · Case study presentations (4 groups) · Program closing
Daily hours: 09:00 – 17:00 · 8 contact hours per day including scheduled breaks · Prayer and lunch break observed locally
------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. FACULTY & TUTORS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
All IPTA program tutors hold valid IPTA Tutor Accreditation in the relevant specialty. A minimum of one Program Tutor is required for each delivery of this program.
Dr. Ahmed Ramadan Zaki Baghdadi — Program Tutor
Qualifications & Credentials: BPT · MPT · PhD PT
IPTA Rank: Certified Tutor
Specialty: Myofascial Therapy · Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy
Additional Tutor — Co-Tutor (if applicable)
Qualifications & Credentials: To be confirmed prior to each intake
IPTA Rank: Tutor / Co-Tutor
Specialty: Myofascial Therapy
------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. ASSESSMENT & CERTIFICATION
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Assessment Strategy
------------------------
The CMFT program uses a multi-modal, competency-based assessment framework across both the online and face-to-face components of the program. Assessment methods combine online theory examinations, article criticism, group case study presentations, in-module direct observation sessions, and a final practical direct observation examination.
Online Theory Examinations (Formative + Summative)
--------------------------------------------------
Online theory examinations are conducted before the program (pre-program), after each face-to-face module (module-level), and at the end of the program (final). Examinations consist of multiple-choice questions (MCQ) and case study-based questions assessing theoretical knowledge, clinical reasoning, and myofascial therapy frameworks. Pass mark: 70%.
Article Criticism
------------------------
Participants critically analyze and evaluate a research article related to myofascial therapy and evidence-based practice. This develops literature appraisal skills and the ability to integrate current evidence into clinical decision-making.
Case Study Presentations (Group)
--------------------------------
Four participant groups present clinical case studies in each face-to-face module, applying program content to real-life musculoskeletal and visceral myofascial scenarios. This fosters collaborative clinical reasoning, peer learning, and the integration of theory with practice.
In-Module Direct Observation
----------------------------
Each face-to-face module includes structured direct observation sessions, during which tutors directly observe and assess participant performance of myofascial techniques. These formative observations provide individualized feedback and identify areas for improvement before the final examination.
Final Practical Examination — Direct Observation (Summative)
------------------------------------------------------------
Conducted on the final face-to-face day. The final practical examination involves direct observation of clinical procedures and performance in practice (1 hour). Examiners directly assess technique precision, clinical reasoning, safety, and patient communication across the program's myofascial therapy methods. Pass mark: 70%.
Pass Mark
------------------------
70% in each assessment component (online theory examinations and final practical examination). All components must be passed to receive the CMFT program completion certificate.
Re-Assessment Policy
------------------------
· One free theory examination re-sit is available within 60 days of the original examination, conducted online proctored or at an IPTA-approved centre.
· Practical re-assessment is available via in-person direct observation at an upcoming IPTA program batch or via IPTA-approved video submission within 60 days. An administration fee may apply.
· Candidates unsuccessful after re-assessment may audit the relevant module day(s) of the next program intake at a reduced fee before re-attempting.
· All re-assessments must be completed within 6 months of the original program end date.
Certificate & Credential Issued
-------------------------------
IPTA Electronic Program Completion Certificate — Certified Myofascial Therapy Practitioner (CMFT) — with QR verification code, issued within 48 hours of successful completion of all assessment components. Certificates are verifiable by employers and institutions at www.ipta.academy/verify.
Certification Summary
------------------------
Credential: Certified Myofascial Therapy Practitioner (CMFT) — IPTA E-Certificate (digital, QR-verified)
Total CPD Hours: 64 CPD Hours — IPTA accredited
Specialty Endorsement: Myofascial Therapy — Musculoskeletal & Visceral
Accreditation Bodies: International Physical Therapy Academy (IPTA) · International Physical Therapy Network (IPTN)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
12. CPD & ACCREDITATION VALUE
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: This program is delivered by the International Physical Therapy Academy (IPTA) — a fully recognized learning provider with the UK Register of Learning Providers (UKRLP No. 10096105), an approved international CPD provider by CPDG-UK (No. #782156), accredited by the International Accreditation Council under ISO 21001:2018 (Educational Organizations Management System), accredited as a further education organization by UK Education Quality Management (UKEQM — www.ukeqm.uk), and officially recognized as an Affiliating Body by the International Physical Therapy Network (IPTN). Attendance carries 64 IPTA-accredited CPD hours. Participants are advised to confirm the acceptability of IPTA CPD credits with their local professional registration body or employer prior to enrollment.
UK Register of Learning Providers (UKRLP) — Fully Recognized Learning Provider — No. 10096105
Recognition Status: Fully Recognized Learning Provider — No. 10096105
Additional details: www.ukrlp.co.uk
CPD Group UK (CPDG) — Approved International CPD Provider — No. #782156
Recognition Status: Approved International CPD Provider — No. #782156
Additional details: www.thecpd.group
International Accreditation Council (IAC) — ISO 21001: 2018 Certified — Educational Organizations Management System
Recognition Status: ISO 21001:2018 Certified — Educational Organizations Management System
Additional details: www.iacouncil.org
International Physical Therapy Network (IPTN) — Officially Recognized Affiliating Body
Recognition Status: Officially Recognized Affiliating Body
UK Education Quality Management (UKEQM) — Accredited Further Education Organization
Recognition Status: Accredited Further Education Organization
Additional details: www.ukeqm.uk
------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. QUALITY ASSURANCE
------------------------------------------------------------------------
All IPTA programs are subject to a structured quality assurance framework to ensure consistent, high-standard delivery across all countries and delivery formats.
Scientific Oversight: IPTA Scientific Council reviews all program content for scientific accuracy, clinical relevance, and alignment with current myofascial therapy and fascial science evidence.
Program Review Cycle: Every 3 years, or sooner if significant new evidence or guideline changes warrant earlier revision.
Peer Review Process: Each program is reviewed by at least two independent subject-matter experts prior to initial launch and at each revision cycle.
Delivery Monitoring: IPTA Liaison Officers and the Review Committee monitor program delivery quality through tutor evaluations, participant feedback, and assessment outcome analysis.
Participant Feedback: A structured feedback survey is administered to all participants at program conclusion. Results are analyzed and fed into the continuous program improvement cycle.
Assessment Moderation: All summative assessments are moderated by a second IPTA-accredited assessor before results are issued and certificates are dispatched.
Tutor Qualification: All program tutors must hold current IPTA Tutor Accreditation in myofascial therapy and comply with ongoing professional development requirements.
Conflict of Interest: All faculty members complete conflict of interest declarations submitted to IPTA Scientific Affairs. A comprehensive review ensures objectivity and scientific integrity of all program content and presentations.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
14. ETHICS & PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
------------------------------------------------------------------------
All participants, faculty, and program organizers are required to adhere to IPTA's ethical and professional conduct standards throughout the program.
· All participants complete the IPTA Code of Ethics declaration prior to program commencement.
· All faculty members submit conflict of interest disclosures to IPTA Scientific Affairs before each program delivery.
· Formal informed consent is obtained from all participants before every practical and hands-on session.
· Patient and volunteer safety briefings are conducted and documented before each practical lab session.
· The program adheres to IPTA's Equal Opportunity Charter and is committed to diversity and inclusion in all delivery settings.
· Data protection and privacy compliance is maintained in accordance with applicable regulations in the host country.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
15. DOCUMENT CONTROL
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Document Title: Myofascial Therapy Certification Program — Program Description Document
Document Type: Official Program Curriculum Document
Document Owner: IPTA Programs & Scientific Affairs Department
Classification: Official — For authorized distribution
Template Version: IPTA-SPD-Template-v2.0-2025
Program Version: v1.0 — 2025 (Initial release, formatted to IPTA Standard Template)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
For registration and further information:
www.ipta.academy · contact@ipta.academy
2nd Floor, College House, 17 King Edwards Road, Ruislip, London, HA4 7AE, United Kingdom
Registration No. 17084556-UK
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leave a comment