LIVE WEBINAR DATE AND TIME
Tuesday, April 6, 2027 4-5:30pm CT

Note: If you are unable to attend the live event, you will be automatically enrolled in the on-demand version.  The on-demand version will be available six weeks after the live broadcast.

INSTRUCTORS (click on the name below to read faculty bio)
Michael Grant, PT, DPT, OCS
Mary (Betsy) Montgomery, PT, DPT, WCS

DESCRIPTION
Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction (DGBIs) are a group of gastrointestinal disorders characterized by altered communication between the gut and nervous system, resulting in changes in gut function, sensation and regulation without requiring an identifiable structural abnormality. DGBIs are highly prevalent, affecting approximately 40% of adults worldwide based on Rome IV diagnostic criteria. Common DGBIs include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional dyspepsia, functional constipation, functional diarrhea and disorders of abdominal pain and bloating. This webinar will explore the current understanding of DGBIs, including proposed etiological mechanisms, underlying pathophysiology and emerging research informing contemporary medical management strategies. The discussion will also examine the role of rehabilitation in the comprehensive management of DGBIs, with an emphasis on both general rehabilitative approaches and condition-specific interventions, including pelvic floor physical therapy. 

LEARNER OUTCOMES
Upon completion of this webinar, participants will be able to:  

1. Identify the key characteristics, prevalence and common types of Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction (DGBIs) and classify common conditions using Rome IV diagnostic criteria.
   
2. Describe the proposed etiological mechanisms and underlying pathophysiology of DGBIs, as well as emerging evidence informing contemporary medical management strategies.
3. Define the role of rehabilitation, including pelvic floor physical therapy, in the comprehensive, multidisciplinary management of DGBIs.

SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION
Participants will be present during the live webinar in its entirety and complete an attendance verification and feedback survey in the Academy Learning Portal within one month of the live air date. 

AUDIENCE
Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants, Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants

CONTINUING EDUCATION
Occupational Therapists: Check back soon!

Physical Therapists: This online course has been approved by the Illinois Physical Therapy Board for 1.5 Contact Hours. Approval #216-000069

The Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is recognized by California and the New York State Education Department's State Board for Physical Therapy as an approved provider of physical therapy and physical therapist assistant continuing education for 1.5 Contact Hours on 7/31/2026.

Many states accept continuing education contact hours recognized in other states, enabling professionals to use these hours to meet their licensing or certification requirements. Please consult your state regulations to see if this meets CEU requirements for your license.

DISCLOSURES
Course Directors and Planning Committee Members:
Julie Lenkiewicz, MS, CCC-SLP Has nothing to disclose.
Melissa Kolski, PT, OCS, Dip MDT Has nothing to disclose.
Leslie Marriott, OTR/L Has nothing to disclose.
Selah Bustamante, MSN, RN, CRRN Has nothing to disclose.
Melissa Legreid, MSN, RN, CRRN, NPD-BC Has nothing to disclose.
Speakers, Moderators and Panelists:
Michael Grant, PT, DPT, OCS Has nothing to disclose. 
Mary (Betsy) Montgomery, PT, DPT, WCS Has nothing to disclose.

ACADEMY POLICIES
For a complete list of Academy policies and technology requirements, click here.