I recently went to a lecture at my local library about gardening and how to grow flowers/vegetables in our dry climate. About five minutes into the lecture/discussion I realized that I was in way over my head. These women discussed gardening with the same passion that I discuss the biomechanics of the subtalor joint. I finally worked up the courage to ask a question and I think it was quite apparent that I was not totally sure what I was doing, but I figured I was never going to learn if I did not ask questions.   What happened after the meeting was a beautiful example of people, who are passionate about what they do, wanting to share their knowledge. Three separate people invited me over to their homes to teach me how to garden in an arid climate and offered to share plants with me.

What do gardening and NAIOMT’s upcoming Sacroiliac Joint Symposium have in common? Not a whole lot, but they do share one thing. They share a common theme of people who are passionate about their areas of expertise. Erl, Ann, and Cliff are all incredible passionate about what they do and teach. They are like my gardening ladies, they want to teach you want they know so that you too can make something beautiful. And yes, the SIJ is beautiful!

I assure you that you will walk away from the symposium with enough knowledge to make your head spin. At times you will sit there slack jawed and in awe, thinking “how can one person be so passionate about the purpose of a single ligament?” And at other times you might feel pretty good about yourself thinking, “I already knew that.” PTs and students at all levels will find value.

I am absolutely giddy with excitement about the thought of hearing those three speaking together in the same room. Not only are they three of the smartest people you will ever hear speak, they are also truly gifted with the ability to teach. My excitement level rivals that of my kids going to Disney World. So grab a friend, enjoy the beautiful June weather in Seattle, and rediscover your passion for the Sacroiliac joint!

–Stacy Soappman, PT, DSc, COMT, FAAOMPT