Musculoskeletal Management of the Lower Quadrant
Everything you need to know
- Start date: January 2027
- End date: May 2027
- Module leader: David Alderson
- Level: 7
- Credits: 30
Introduction
This module develops your expertise and innovative management of neuro-musculoskeletal dysfunctions of the lower quadrant, informed by critical evaluation of the relevant literature and reflection on the effectiveness of your clinical reasoning skills.
The content of this module aligns with the requirements for membership of the Musculoskeletal Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (MACP) and the International Federation of Orthopaedic Manual Therapists (IFOMPT).
Who is this course/module for?
- Qualified MSK health professionals
- Practitioners developing musculoskeletal assessment and management skills
- Those working in or towards enhanced or advanced practice roles
What you’ll learn
Learners will develop high-level assessment and rehabilitation skills in relation to the lower quadrant. It will strengthen diagnostic reasoning and complex decision-making in diverse musculoskeletal settings. Students will explore leadership approaches, service development, education and innovation, preparing you to contribute to system-level improvement within musculoskeletal healthcare. All learning will be underpinned by critical engagement with contemporary literature and research, strengthening your ability to apply evidence-based practice and contribute to professional knowledge.
Skills you’ll gain
- Develop assessment of Lumbar spine and lower limb disorders and pathologies, including differential diagnosis and masquerader’s.
- Pain physiology and pain mechanisms
- Search for evidence and pose research questions that are relevant to practice.
- Analyse evidence base and apply to the clinical reasoning process
- Develop wider management of upper quadrant, including education, manual therapy, exercise therapy and awareness of other interventions (for example, injections, surgery)
How you’ll learn
You’ll learn through a mix of practical and theory based sessions, focussing on development of applied musculoskeletal skills. You will be required to be self-motivated with independent study (under guidance). You will often work in physical or remote groups, with frequent opportunities for peer and formative assessment.
Fees and Funding for 2026/27
| Indicative price for stand-alone module |
Home student: £1,825 EU / International students: £1,860 - The University cannot sponsor a Student Visa for CPD modules. However, if you already have permission to study in the UK, you can apply. If you’re unsure whether your visa allows this, please contact the International Experience Team at hallamhelp@shu.ac.uk to discuss your options. |
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| How to apply |
You can apply for this module using our online admissions form. After you have registered or logged in, select the module title under "Please choose your first module". |
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Entry requirements
Applicants will hold a first degree or professional qualification which is recognised in the UK in a related health care subject.
Applicants must usually have 24 months full time (or equivalent part time) experience managing and treating musculoskeletal dysfunction and normally be working in a relevant role.
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Attendance
Delivery Method:
Taught on Collegiate Campus. All teaching, learning activities and assessments take place on Collegiate Campus. Sessions are fully timetabled, and student attendance is expected for all scheduled teaching. We will require all non-British and non-Irish students to attend campus for an in-person verification check to comply with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requirements at the start of their first module.
View our statement on notional study hours »
Provisional timetable
Tutorials will be held on:
- Monday 25 January 2027
- Tuesday 26 January 2027
- Wednesday 24 February 2027
- Thursday 25 February 2027
- Friday 26 February 2027
- Monday 15 March 2027
- Tuesday 16 March 2027
- Wednesday 21 April 2027
- Thursday 22 April 2027
- Friday 23 April 2027
Assessment week beginning Monday 17 May 2027
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Assessment
Module assessment is made up of one or more assessment tasks. The assessment task(s) for this module are:
- Viva: typically, a combination of a presentation/demonstration to one or more academics, with discussion, questioning and oral feedback
Successful completion of this module will earn you 30 level 7 credits
Further details
For further information please contact the module leader David Alderson - d.alderson@shu.ac.uk
David Alderson - Module Lead - d.alderson@shu.ac.uk I work part-time (Mon, Thurs and Fri)