Year
2012
Units
4.5
Contact
1 x 2-day intensive workshop once-only
1 x 50-minute on-line tutorial weekly
Prerequisites
1 Admission into GCMM-Graduate Certificate in Musculoskeletal Medicine
1a Admission into GDPMM-Graduate Diploma in Musculoskeletal Medicine
Must Satisfy: ((1 or 1a))
Assumed knowledge
A knowledge of the range of conditions associated with the dysfunction of the upper limb.
Assessment
Assignments; Oral
Topic description
This topic enables students to explore dysfunction of the upper limb, with a particular focus on the shoulder as the most common source of patient presentation. The syllabus covers the following aspects of upper limb dysfunction through emphasising the interaction between the knowledge, skills and attitudes associated the diverse biological, psychological and social aspects of dysfunction of the upper limb.

  • Anatomy

  • Biomechanics

  • Clinical examination

  • Diagnosis

  • Imaging

  • Medical treatment

  • Surgical treatment

  • Non surgical treatment

  • Rehabilitation

  • Medico legal

  • Psychosocial

  • Pain management

  • Prevention

  • Mechanisms of injury

  • Workplace

  • Referral
Educational aims
The topic enables students to:

  • Extend and utilise their knowledge of the anatomy, physiology, pathology and biomechanics associated with the functions and disorders of the upper limb

  • Develop their understanding of the impact of biological, psychological and social factors on musculoskeletal health, work and social engagement

  • Efficiently diagnose patients¿ needs, and develop and evaluate appropriate courses of investigation and treatment that facilitate a return to normal function and participation

  • Further their ability to locate their own practice within the broad professional community associated with the care of patients requiring treatment for musculoskeletal injuries and disorders.

Expected learning outcomes
On completion of this topic students should be able to:

  • demonstrate a sound knowledge of the structure and function of the upper limb; demonstrate a sound knowledge of common and dangerous diseases and trauma; distinguish the numerous aetiologies; understand the interrelation between the biological, psychological and social aspects of injury, disease, treatment, rehabilitation and long term recovery.

  • systematically examine the upper limb and identify possible sources of pain/dysfunction; assess the evidence for different clinical practices and analyse examining procedures of the musculoskeletal system; integrate a knowledge of the musculoskeletal system with a knowledge of biomechanics, occupational factors, and mechanisms of injury.

  • arrive at a rational functional diagnosis of the patient and devise appropriate further cost effective investigations and management; suggest and where necessary implement a course of treatment which will hasten return of normal function and occupation; assess effectiveness of treatment and to alter treatment if necessary.
  • understand the role and impact of medical, surgical and non-surgical treatments; know how and when to refer to appropriate specialists in a cost-effective, efficient and informative manner; have a clear understanding of the extent and limits of their professional competence; be able to interpret the needs of patients who have been referred by other professionals; write a comprehensive medico-legal report and be prepared to give expert evidence.