Medication use in Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation

This module aims to support and develop critical thinking of practicing clinicians in understanding the impact of commonly prescribed medications on musculoskeletal health and its effects on rehabilitation.

After completion of this course, students will have a grounded understanding of the impact of NSAID’s, analgesics and neuropathic pain medications on musculoskeletal tissue health and wider effects on rehabilitation.

Students will also have increased knowledge and understanding of the legal and professional framework surrounding medicines legislation which will inform safe practice within their speciality.

The course is aimed at experienced musculoskeletal practitioners, working at or towards Advanced Clinical Practitioners status. Clinicians who work in the field of musculoskeletal medicine will gain a greater understanding on the impact of medication on musculoskeletal rehabilitation.

This module is ideal for those working in primary, secondary and tertiary care and First Contact Practitioner roles.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the student will be able to:

1. Demonstrate advanced clinical assessment skills that reflect individualised responses to musculoskeletal patients’ presentations.
2. Critically reflect upon knowledge, understanding and application of indications, contraindications, effects, and side-effects of commonly prescribed therapeutic drugs in musculoskeletal conditions (NSAID’s, analgesics & Neuropathic).
3. Critically evaluate the impact of commonly prescribed medications on tissue health and rehabilitation using the available evidence base in relation to decision making within musculoskeletal management.
4. Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of the legal and professional framework underpinning safe practice and quality assurance with giving medication advice.
5. Evidence a personal contribution and commitment to a culture of organisational learning.

Applicants should have:

• A relevant first degree OR a relevant professional experience or qualifications that demonstrates ability to study at Level 7.
• A minimum of 1 year post-registration experience.
• Current Registration with the relevant UK or equivalent professional body Current registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) or equivalent (eg GMC for doctors and NMC for nurses).

Module Outline

This module aims to provide students with critical understanding of the scientific, clinical and professional considerations relating to medication commonly used in musculoskeletal management.

Clinicians will be developing and evidencing advanced clinical skills that will enhance their management of a range of musculoskeletal conditions.

Students will undertake face to face learning on academic material and clinical scenarios that relate to the following key areas:

• Overview of pharmaco‐kinetics and pharmaco‐dynamics.
• Drug history assessment.
• The use, action and side effects of common analgesics, NSAIDs & Neuropathic Medications
• Common Drug Interactions.
• The effects of NSAID’s, Analgesics & Neuropathic medication on tissue health and impact on rehabilitation.
• Legal and professional prescribing framework.

Assessment strategy

100% coursework consisting of:

• One case study essay of 2000 words.
• Three reflective logs of 500 words each.
• One case study presentation delivered to the cohort.

• Fees for 2023-24 (.PDF).

• Fees for 2024-25 (.PDF).

If you have any questions about the module fees please email msk@essex.ac.uk.

In the first instance approach your Education Liaison Manager to see if funding can be secured via the organisation you are working for.

To apply for an individual module please complete the module application form (.docx) and email to msk@essex.ac.uk for the attention of Sophie Young.