Offered
Clayton Second semester 2008 (Off-campus)
Synopsis
This elective unit includes the following: history and epidemiology, nature of musculoskeletal pain, diagnostic processes including modern investigation techniques, management including pharmacological, physical, electro-mechanical, behavioural and biopsychosocial, spinal manipulation, joint and soft tissue injection techniques, and regional musculoskeletal disorders; neck, lower back, shoulder, elbow, hip and knee.
Objectives
Objectives for learning musculoskeletal medicine:
- Foster clinical principles using common, relevant and interesting case based learning.
- Promote a keen awareness and appreciation of the importance of the basic anatomy and physiological function of the musculoskeletal system.
- Promote a basic understanding of the basic concepts of ergonomics of the spine, joints and soft tissues, especially muscles.
- Emphasise the concept of spontaneous natural healing and recovery.
- Acquisition of skills in the physical examination of joints including the spine and related neurological conditions.
- Emphasise an understanding of the various pain manifestations of mechanical pressure upon large nerves.
- Foster an appreciation of the human issues involved in injuries to the musculoskeletal system.
Assessment
Journals (50%), Clinical Audit (50%)
