The Upper Quadrant module is designed for qualified physiotherapists who have already successfully completed 7HSK0331/0075 (Lower Quadrant – Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy) and want to further develop their skills in the management of patients with musculoskeletal dysfunction of the cervicothoracic spine and upper limb. It is an expectation that you will have MSK experience (and an existing caseload) of patients with upper quadrant dysfunction to facilitate application and consolidation of learning and for the assessment process.  You will be expected to work together to explore and share your clinical experience.  

Module aims  

The aim of this module is to build on your existing knowledge and skills, to facilitate a critical approach to musculoskeletal physiotherapy theory and practice, from an evidence-informed perspective and to apply advanced clinical reasoning and practical skills to the assessment and management of upper quadrant dysfunction.  

Content  

On this course you will explore, debate and share your clinical experiences to illustrate issues of patient assessment and management in the following areas:  

• The theoretical basis and practical application of advanced clinical reasoning in upper quadrant musculoskeletal dysfunction, set within a biopsychosocial model of care.  
• Anatomy, biomechanics, pathology and pathophysiology affecting the cervico-thoracic spine and upper limb   
• The assessment and appropriate management of articular, neural and myofascial dysfunction in upper quadrant neuromusculoskeletal conditions.  
• Critical use of the available evidence to enhance practice  

Course Notes 

Teaching will be a blend of on-line delivery requiring access to a reliable PC & internet connection, plus practical classes that will take place in a newly refurbished laboratory at College Lane Campus, Hatfield. This module is equivalent to 300 hours of student effort including 11 taught days and 1 assessment day.   

All teaching days are normally 9am – 5pm. Students are expected to attend all teaching dates.   

Day 1 - Tuesday 8th October 2024, 9am-5pm (on-line) (TBC)

Day 2 - Wednesday 9th October 2024, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)

Day 3 - Tuesday 5th November 2024, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)

Day 4 - Wednesday 6th November 2024, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)

Day 5 - Tuesday 3rd December 2024, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)

Day 6 - Wednesday 4th December 2024, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)

Day 7 - Tuesday 14th January 2025, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)

Day 8 - Wednesday 15th January 2025, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)

Day 9 - Tuesday 18th February 2025, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)

Day 10 - Wednesday 19th February 2025, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)

Day 11 - Tuesday 11th March 2025, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)  

Assessment Dates:

Essay hand-in date – Wednesday 9th April 2025 on-line (TBC)  

OSCE assessment date – Tuesday 29th April 2025, in person on campus (9am to 6pm) (TBC)

Refer/Defer Assessment Dates:  

Essay hand-in date Wednesday 21st July 2025 (TBC)   

On campus practical assessment date - Monday 29th July 2025, in person on campus  (TBC)