Overview

What Is the Musculoskeletal Galaxy?

Designed to provide PAs and NPs with a well-rounded foundation on orthopaedics, this conference is ideal if you are new to the specialty or if you are a family medicine, emergency medicine, or urgent care provider who sees musculoskeletal conditions in your daily practice.

Expert faculty discuss topics across orthopaedic specialties, including the most common conditions of the spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, ankle, and foot. Take part in engaging, hands-on instruction with optional workshops on musculoskeletal injections, ultrasound and splinting and casting.

Join us June 5 – 8 in Chicago, IL for these exciting opportunities at Galaxy 2026!

• 4-day conference full of interactive orthopaedic sessions
• Optional hands-on workshops
  • Hands-on Acute Care Splinting and Casting Workshop
  • Hands-on Musculoskeletal Injection Workshop for Beginners
  • MSK Focus POCUS Workshop
• Networking opportunities with colleagues
• 3 days of exhibits
• Access to the recorded sessions from the conference that you can access online until November 30, 2026.

Course Directors

• Brooke Beckett, MD
• Travis L. Randolph, PA-C, ATC
• Chuck Dowell, PA-C, ATC

Registration

Please note that the Musculoskeletal Galaxy conference is not included in the Fellow Plus or Fellow Premium membership.

Optional Workshops

Workshop #1 – Acute Care Splinting and Casting Workshop (4 AAPA Category 1 CME credits*)

One session available:

• Friday, June 5, 8 am – 12 pm

Separate registration required. Limited seats available!

This workshop will cover both upper and lower body splinting and casting. Instructors will demonstrate and practice on various different splints/ casts during the session. Attendees should wear shorts and a T-shirt to the workshop.

Workshop #2 – Musculoskeletal Injection Workshop for Beginners (4 AAPA Category 1 CME credits*)

Two sessions available:

• Saturday, June 6, 8:15 am – 12:30 pm
• Sunday, June 7, 8:15 am – 12:30 pm

Separate registration required. Limited seats available!

This highly interactive injection workshop is designed for new graduate PAs and NPs or those who are new to treating musculoskeletal injuries. Our instructors will provide a lecture, demonstration, and most importantly, a hands-on learning experience. You will learn about the materials, indications, contraindications, risks, benefits, and proper technique of injection therapy. The workshop will address the evaluation and management of common musculoskeletal problems of the upper and lower extremity and the role of injection therapy in these conditions.

The following injections will be covered: shoulder joint, subacromial bursitis, lateral and medial epicondylitis, olecranon bursitis, de Quervain’s tenosynovitis, trigger finger, first carpal metacarpal (CMC) joint, trochanteric bursitis, knee joint, pes anserine bursitis, prepatellar bursitis, plantar fasciitis, and Morton’s neuroma.

Working in small groups led by an instructor, you will gain beginning competencies in proper injection technique while practicing on each other and electronic models. Attendees should wear loose, comfortable clothing (T-shirts, shorts, etc.) and be prepared to practice palpating anatomical landmarks for proper injection technique.

Workshop #3 – MSK Focus POCUS (4 AAPA Category 1 CME credits*)

Two sessions available:

• Saturday, June 6, 1:15 – 5:30 pm
• Sunday, June 7, 1:15 – 5:30 pm

Separate registration required. Limited seats available!

The Musculoskeletal Galaxy Focus POCUS ultrasound workshop will cover an introduction to basic ultrasound principle including proper scanning techniques, review of imaging normal anatomy, review of possible pathology encountered during basic MSK US, discuss technique for US guided injections. Attendees will learn proper MSK imaging techniques for the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and knee. Learning is facilitated through an interactive and practical format with the direct supervision of the faculty.

Optional Excursion

Chicago Iconic Mobster Walking Tour

Sunday, June 7 from 6 – 8 pm

This private tour explores the intriguing legacy of Chicago’s most iconic mobsters and gangs. You’ll journey through a mile to a mile and a half of historic Chicago real estate while learning about the city’s dark underworld — from Al Capone’s operations on Michigan Avenue to the stories behind notorious mob hits that still echo through the streets today.

The starting point for this tour is a ten-minute walk from the Hilton Chicago (conference hotel) at 100 E Jackson Dr, Chicago, IL 60603.  The walking distance of the tour is 1 – 1.5 miles long.  Please wear comfortable shoes.  No ADA transportation can be provided for this tour.

Main Conference (22.75 AAPA Category 1 CME credits*)

Friday, June 5 – Monday, June 8, 2026

Registration includes three continental breakfasts, lunch on Saturday and Sunday, online access to course materials, and access to recorded sessions from the conference until Nov. 30.

*Please note that this course is not approved for Category A continuing education for certified athletic trainers.

Registration Cancellation Policy

• Please submit your cancellation request in writing to [email protected].
• We offer a full refund for cancellations prior to April 3, 2026.
• Between April 4 – June 4 we can offer a 50% refund for cancellations.
• No refunds or credits will be granted after the conference begins on June 5.
• If AAPA must cancel the 2026 Musculoskeletal Galaxy in Chicago, all registration fees will be transferred to a fully virtual conference experience.
• All hotel cancellations must be made directly with the hotel.

Registration Discounts

Group Registration

AAPA offers a $100 discount, per registrant, on group registrations of 10+ PAs or NPs.

Restrictions apply:

• All registrants must also book a hotel room at the time of registration.
• No registrant on the list may be already registered. No refunds will be given.
• This promotion and discount may not be used in combination with any other promotion or discount.
• Group registration list must be submitted to [email protected].

Agenda

Below is a list of all sessions taking place at Galaxy 2026. Please note that times listed are in Central Time.

All sessions (except the optional hands-on workshops) will be recorded and will be made available for conference attendees.

This agenda may be updated or modified without notification.

CME Accreditation

Accreditation Statements

The 2026 Musculoskeletal Galaxy: Acute Care Splinting and Casting Workshop, offered June 5, 2026, has been reviewed by the AAPA Review Panel and is compliant with AAPA CME Criteria. This activity is designated for 4 AAPA Category 1 CME credits. PAs should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation.

The 2026 Musculoskeletal Galaxy: Musculoskeletal Injection Workshop for Beginners, offered June 6 or June 7, 2026, has been reviewed by the AAPA Review Panel and is compliant with AAPA CME Criteria. This activity is designated for 4 AAPA Category 1 CME credits. PAs should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation.

The 2026 Musculoskeletal Galaxy: Ultrasound, offered June 6 or June 7, 2026, has been reviewed by the AAPA Review Panel and is compliant with AAPA CME Criteria. This activity is designated for 4 AAPA Category 1 CME credits. PAs should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation.

The 2026 Musculoskeletal Galaxy: Main Conference, offered June 5 – 8, 2026, has been reviewed by the AAPA Review Panel and is compliant with AAPA CME Criteria. This activity is designated for 22.75 AAPA Category 1 CME credits. PAs should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation.

Are you an NP?

NPs can often claim AAPA Category 1 CME credit as continuing education with AANPCB and ANCC. Check with your certification/licensing authority to confirm that AAPA credit is acceptable – and then register today!

Venue and Travel

Conference Venue

Hilton Chicago
720 South Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60605

Making a Hotel Room Reservation

A discounted room rate of $249, plus applicable taxes has been secured for attendees and will be available until 11:59 p.m. (PT) on Friday, May 15, 2026, or until the room block is full. After that time, a room cannot be guaranteed.

Book Your Room

Reservations can also be made over the phone by calling 1-312-922-4400. Please have your arrival/departure dates, bed type preference, and credit card information ready. You must mention the Hilton Chicago and the AAPA/AAOS Musculoskeletal Galaxy conference to receive the discounted rate.

Should you have any issues booking a hotel room, please contact Mairi Gardner.

Why Stay at the Conference Hotel?

Many reasons, and all of them benefit you! Zero commute to the event means you’ll save time and money. Be on-site (and on time) for all the sessions (and breakfast)— with your room close by in case you forget anything. Spend your extra time networking or relaxing with colleagues (no FOMO for you!); and surround yourself with all the benefits this gorgeous historic hotel has to offer.

Hotel Perks

• Complimentary Wi-Fi in guest rooms
• Access to fitness center
• Indoor pool
• Pet-friendly

Hotel Policies

Check-in time is 3 p.m. and check-out time is 11 a.m.  Reservations must be canceled 72 hours prior to arrival to avoid a no-show fee equal to one night’s room and tax. All reservations and cancellations must be made directly with the hotel.

Travel

Flying?  Chicago-O’Hare International Airport is 18 miles (45 minute drive), Chicago Midway International Airport International Airport is 12 miles (25 minute drive), and Gary Regional Airport is 25 miles (40 minutes) from the hotel.

Driving? Self parking is $72 and valet parking is $88.

Airline discount with Southwest Airlines

Airline discount with United Airlines

Things To Do in Chicago

The conference venue is conveniently located to multiple attractions and things to make the most out of your visit.

Parks & Gardens

Enjoy the beautiful Chicago June weather by exploring various parks and trails. First time visitor? You can’t miss The Bean at Millennium Park.

Architecture & History

Did you know that Chicago is the birthplace of the skyscraper? Take an architecture boat cruise, discover the Pullman National Historical Park, and more!

Food and Drinks

From a classic Chicago style hot dog to James Beard Award winning restaurants, there is something for every type of eater. Don’t miss out on retro speakeasies, breweries and more. 

Museums and Culture

Art Institutes, Planetarium, the Shedd Aquarium are just a few things to visit during your time in Chicago.

First time in Chicago? Check out this guide to help you plan all the best things to check out.

Information for Attendees

On-Site Conference Registration and Tips

• Registration is open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Friday, June 5. Registration reopens on Saturday, June 6 at 7 a.m. You only need to check in once at the on-site registration desk.
• Galaxy is BYOD (Bring Your Own Device). Use your smartphone, computer, or tablet to answer questions during CME sessions.
• Bring a sweater or light jacket in case of cold meeting rooms.

Accessing Electronic Handouts

There is no paper syllabus or final program for this course. Lecture materials will be available under My Curriculum in AAPA’s Learning Central before the conference start date.

Course Evaluations and CME Certificates

Your completion of course evaluations is a prerequisite for a CME certificate. The course evaluations and your CME certificate will be available in AAPA’s Learning Central beginning Friday, June 5, 2026. You will have until Friday, July 31, 2026, to complete the evaluations.

Conference Policies

• Attendee guests are not allowed to attend any meal functions without prior authorization from AAPA.
• No children under the age of 18 are allowed inside the session rooms.
• No photos or videos may be taken inside the session rooms.

Testimonials

“This is an OUTSTANDING conference for a new grad, someone new to ortho, or urgent care/ER provider who is looking to get stronger [orthopaedic] training. The speakers were dynamic and engaging. The overall organization and flow were excellent.”

“A well-rounded conference for head-to-toe orthopedics. Great to attend if you are a new grad or new to the field of ortho.”

“I was so impressed. The content was thorough but easy to follow and understand. The speakers and experts were engaging; I was never bored. The lectures were pertinent. It was fun.”

“I loved the variety of lectures, and the speakers were phenomenal!”

“All around the best AAPA conference I’ve attended. The content was superb. I will certainly return.”

“I would especially recommend this to colleagues who are new PAs or new to orthopaedics. The speakers were energetic, knowledgeable, and responsive to questions. Additionally, it was nice to learn about/get a refresher on some things that I don’t treat every day. It’s also a great chance to meet and talk with other PAs in the same specialty with similar levels of experience. The conference was very well-run and well-organized.”

“Excellent conference! This is my second time attending, and it did not disappoint. Great selection of topics, EXCELLENT SPEAKERS! The presentations were all very dynamic and interactive. Loved the case study style of teaching!”

“The speakers, content and presentations helped me understand topics and conditions I see in my practice every day and since I have gone back to my practice, I have felt more confident in recognizing and treating these conditions. As a PA in my first year in orthopedics, this has been so helpful and helped me feel much more confident in my career.”

“Great conference, amazing speakers, every session was valuable in making me a better medical provider.”

“This was a great overview of head to toe orthopedics. The speakers were engaging and there was a good balance of lecture and hands on learning.”

Exhibit and Sponsorship Opportunities

Partnering With AAPA

Leverage the prestige and network of AAPA to connect with key healthcare professionals in orthopaedics.

The Musculoskeletal Galaxy Conference is expected to draw more than 200 PAs and NPs.

We offer a range of cost-effective networking and sponsorship opportunities designed to suit any budget.

Top 5 Specialties

*Hospital Medicine, Pain Management, Pediatrics, etc.

Primary Work Settings

Years of Experience in Current Specialty

Attendees by Profession

Exhibit & Sponsorship Opportunities

Secure your company’s tabletop display available in the conference area during the event that includes:

• One (1) 6’ skirted table and two (2) side chairs
• Onsite Signage
• Wi-Fi
• Electric (available upon request)
• Two (2) complimentary registration badges (not eligible to claim CME)
• Medical Pursuit Spot – Attendees will participate in the trivia game by stopping by all tabletop displays and answer trivia questions (provided by companies). Once attendees have visited all the tabletop displays, they will drop off their game card at the registration desk and are entered to win a prize.
• Company information posted on the conference website

Learn More & Reserve

AAPA provides diverse sponsorship opportunities across three key categories to meet your needs and budget:

• Thought Leadership: Engage with thought leaders and shape discussions on pivotal industry topics.
• Attendee Experience: Enhance the conference experience with interactive and memorable activities
• Brand Exposure: Maximize your brand’s visibility through prominent placement and targeted marketing.

Each participating company will also receive the following in addition to the benefits outlined per opportunity:

• General Event Partner & Exhibit Recognition – Conference Website, Pre-Promotional Materials, and Onsite Signage
• Access to the Pre & Post Conference Attendee Registration List (available four weeks before the conference)

For questions or to start partnering with AAPA, please contact Heather.