School for Health, Unit Catalogue 2007/08 |
FH50131 The Spine |
| Credits: 6 |
| Level: Masters |
| Modular: no specific semester |
| Assessment: OT100 |
| Requisites: |
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Aims: The aim of this unit is to provide a clinical overview of common conditions of spine including examination and investigation of patients presenting with symptoms affecting the spine.
Learning Outcomes: Knowledge and Understanding After taking this unit the student should be able to: * Demonstrate an understanding of the epidemiology of back pain in a primary care setting * describe the relevant functional anatomy of the spine and related neurology * distinguish the possible pathophysiological causes of common spinal disorders * Identify potential 'red flag' cases signifying possible serious spinal pathology * critically appraise the psychosocial aspects of back pain and factors accounting for secondary disability. These learning outcomes will be taught and assessed. Skills: On completion of this unit students should be able to: * take an adequate history and perform examination for patients with possible spinal disease (in conjunction with residential weekend) * formulate a working approach to the documentation, investigation and management of back pain in clinical practice * distinguish common from uncommon forms of spinal disease and those cases that need investigation and further referral * evaluate the range of multidisciplinary interventions and management options for patients with back pain * plan and manage their learning through reflecting on and analysing their own learning needs. * integrate and critically evaluate information gathered from a wide range of resources including the unit resources, text books, journal articles, web pages and other online resources. An appreciation for a hierarchy of evidence should be displayed. * demonstrate effective communication with patients, colleagues and tutors including through asynchronous online discussions. These learning outcomes will be facilitated and some may be assessed. Content: This unit focuses on common conditions of spine including examination and investigation of patients presenting with symptoms affecting the spine. Differential diagnosis and evidence-based management plans are outlined, including the use of injections and physiotherapy. * Functional anatomy and pathology revision outlining current concepts of effects of ageing and injury on spinal structures. Explanation of sources and localisation of spinal pain with discussion of referred pain. Algorithms for differentiating between mechanical low back pain and serious 'red flag' conditions * Diagnosis treatment and management of back pain using clinical cases * Psychological and occupational barriers. Patient options for acute and chronic mechanical problems, surgery and other interventions for prolapsed intervertebral disc and spinal stenosis. |