Program Overview
This advanced program in musculoskeletal ultrasound is designed for experienced healthcare professionals seeking to enhance their diagnostic and therapeutic skills. Through hands-on workshops, participants develop proficiency in ultrasound scanning techniques and learn to interpret musculoskeletal pathologies accurately. The program emphasizes the practical application of ultrasound in clinical practice, including its use as a biofeedback tool in rehabilitation.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This module is designed for experienced healthcare professionals working in musculoskeletal medicine, including physiotherapists, rheumatologists, specialist nurses, and general practitioners. The program aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to confidently and independently utilize ultrasound in musculoskeletal practice.
Objectives:
Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:
- Demonstrate proficiency in conducting ultrasound examinations of major peripheral joints.
- Critically evaluate the diagnostic capabilities of ultrasound in musculoskeletal pathologies.
- Distinguish between normal and abnormal findings identified through ultrasound imaging.
- Assess the role of ultrasound within their professional practice.
- Practical workshops exploring scanning techniques and procedures: Participants will engage in hands-on workshops to develop their practical skills in ultrasound scanning techniques and procedures.
- Role of ultrasound in musculoskeletal assessment: This section explores the various applications of ultrasound in the assessment of musculoskeletal conditions, including its use in diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring progress.
- Differentiation of normal and pathological musculoskeletal tissue: Participants will learn to differentiate between normal and abnormal musculoskeletal tissue appearances on ultrasound images.
- Role of ultrasound in rehabilitation as biofeedback tool: This section examines the use of ultrasound as a biofeedback tool in rehabilitation, allowing patients to visualize their movements and progress.
- Professional issues relating to clinical use of application: This section addresses the ethical and legal considerations associated with the clinical use of ultrasound.
- Evidence exploring the role of ultrasound in musculoskeletal diagnosis and possible influence in management outcomes: Participants will explore the current research evidence supporting the use of ultrasound in musculoskeletal diagnosis and its potential impact on treatment outcomes.
Recommended Reading:
- Bradley M. and O'Donnell. Atlas of Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Anatomy. 2nd Edition. Cambridge Medicine
Assessment:
- 100% coursework mark: The assessment for this module is based entirely on coursework.
- Reflective portfolio: Participants will create a reflective portfolio that demonstrates their application of ultrasound to their work-based practice. This portfolio will include:
- Professional issues: A reflection on the ethical and legal considerations related to ultrasound use.
- Clinical reasoning: A demonstration of their ability to apply ultrasound findings to clinical decision-making.
- Scanning logbook: A record of ultrasound scans performed during the course, including five scans undertaken during taught sessions and 20 scans completed during independent study/supervised practice.
- Case study: A detailed analysis of a specific case using ultrasound.
- Word count: The reflective portfolio (excluding the scanning logbook) should be 3000 words.
- Scanning logbook: The scanning logbook should contain a record of all scans performed during the course.
- Supervision: While a work-based supervisor is not required to assess the scanning logbook, colleague support is encouraged.
Teaching:
- Lead tutors: The module is led by experienced instructors:
- Peter Kabogoza
- Anand Parkunan
Other:
- Location: Colchester Campus
- Based in: Sport Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences
- English language requirements: For non-native English speakers, an IELTS score of 6.5 or a TOEFL score of 450/200 is required. Pre-sessional English pathways are available for those who do not meet the IELTS requirements. They are encouraged to contact their Education Liaison Manager to explore potential funding options through their employer.
University of Essex
Overview:
The University of Essex is a public research university located in Colchester, Essex, England. It is known for its strong academic reputation, particularly in the fields of social sciences, humanities, and law. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as short courses and apprenticeships.
Services Offered:
The university provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
Guaranteed, affordable accommodation for new undergraduate and postgraduate students.Student Support:
A variety of support services are available to students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support.Careers and Employability:
The university offers resources and programs to help students develop their career skills and find employment.Essex Sport:
A wide range of sports facilities and activities are available to students, including fitness classes, performance sport, and scholarships.Faith:
The university provides support for students of all faiths.Cost of Living Support:
The university offers financial assistance to students who are struggling with the cost of living.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Essex can expect a vibrant and diverse campus experience. The university has a strong sense of community, with a variety of clubs, societies, and events to get involved in. The university also has a beautiful campus, with green spaces, lakes, and modern facilities.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Reputation:
The university is consistently ranked highly in national and international rankings.Excellent Research:
The university is a leading research institution, with a strong focus on innovation and impact.Diverse and Inclusive Community:
The university is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.Excellent Student Support:
The university provides a wide range of support services to help students succeed.Beautiful Campus:
The university has a beautiful campus, with green spaces, lakes, and modern facilities.Academic Programs:
The University of Essex offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate programs in the arts, humanities, social sciences, law, business, and science.Postgraduate Programs:
The university offers a wide range of postgraduate programs, including master's degrees, PhDs, and professional qualifications.Short Courses and CPD:
The university offers a variety of short courses and continuing professional development programs.Other:
The university has three campuses: Colchester, Southend, and Loughton. The Colchester campus is the main campus and is located in a beautiful parkland setting. The Southend campus is located on the seafront and offers a more urban experience. The Loughton campus is home to the university's drama school, East 15 Acting School.
The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the Centre for Research in Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Management (REIMI) and the Human Rights Centre.
Entry Requirements:
- Relevant First Degree OR Relevant Professional Experience or Qualifications: Applicants must possess a relevant first degree or demonstrate relevant professional experience or qualifications that prove their ability to study at level seven.
- Minimum One Year Post-Registration Experience: Candidates must have at least one year of post-registration experience in their respective fields.
- Current Registration with Relevant UK or Equivalent Professional Body: Applicants must be currently registered with the relevant UK or equivalent professional body. This includes:
- HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) registration for physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals.
- GMC (General Medical Council) registration for doctors.
- NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council) registration for nurses.
- Access to a Suitable Ultrasound Machine: Applicants must have access to a suitable ultrasound machine. While some advice can be provided regarding short-term equipment loans, it is ideal to have access to a machine in the workplace.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- English as a First Language: No specific requirements are mentioned for native English speakers.
- English as a Second Language: For applicants whose first language is not English, an IELTS score of 6.5 or a TOEFL score of 450/200 is required.
- Pre-Sessional English Pathway: If applicants do not meet the IELTS requirements, they may be able to complete a pre-sessional English pathway to meet the language proficiency standards.
