Course Description/Details:

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.

Module Content:

• Anatomy, biomechanics, pathology & pathophysiology 
• Advanced clinical reasoning
• Skilled practical assessment and management of upper limb and cervical/thoracic MSK conditions
  
• Critical consideration of evidence to enhance practice
  
• Patient centred care within a biopsychosocial model
  
• Holistic practical assessment and management of articular, neural and muscle dysfunction
  
  

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. 

The course forms part of a broader CPD framework that can lead to the award of Postgraduate Diploma, or Master's degree, or can taken as a single independent CPD course.

All applications are considered on a first come, first served basis. Once the module is full the application portal will close, so early application is advised.

Attendance dates:

All teaching is 9am – 5pm unless otherwise stated below:

Friday 3rd October 2025 (Online)
Monday 6th October 2025 (On Campus)
Tuesday 21st October 2025 (On Campus)
Wednesday 22nd October 2025 (On Campus) 
Monday 24th November 2025 (On Campus)
Tuesday 25th November 2025 (On Campus) 
Wednesday 7th January 2026 (On Campus) 
Thursday 8th January 2026 (On Campus)
Tuesday 17th February 2026 (On Campus) 9am – 6pm
Wednesday 18th February 2026 (On Campus) 
Tuesday 10th March 2026 (Campus) 9am – 6pm

Assessment Dates:

Essay (online submission) Tuesday 31st March 2026
OSCE (On Campus) Wednesday 22nd April 2026

Assessment details:

The assessment is a combination of a written essay (submitted on-line) and a practical examination (OSCE) (taken on campus). 

Learning Outcomes: Knowledge and Understanding 

Successful students will typically...  

• Demonstrate critical understanding of theories, principles and concepts underpinning musculoskeletal practice.
• Critically synthesise and evaluate current evidence to demonstrate advanced problem solving and clinical reasoning skills relevant to upper quadrant musculoskeletal dysfunction.
  

Learning Outcomes : Skills and Attributes 

Successful students will typically...

• Demonstrate professional expertise, technical mastery and adaptability in developing management skills/strategies appropriate for patients with upper quadrant peripheral and spinal musculoskeletal dysfunction.
• Engage effectively in academic and professional communication, using a range of communication skills which demonstrate application of critical understanding of theories, principles and concepts appropriate to the management of upper quadrant peripheral and spinal musculoskeletal dysfunction.
• Utilise self−evaluation and reflection on their own and others practice to develop advanced clinical reasoning skills, taking into account the evolving evidence−base and current legal, ethical and professional issues.

Who teaches the course:

The course is normally led by Laura Eccott. Previous regular contributors include Anju Jaggi, Aurelien Noyer, Alison Middleditch, Ioannis Paneris, Dionne Ryder, Kate Montgomery, Tamsin Mann, Dr Mindy Cairns, Andrea Moulson, Dr Hubert van Griensven and Matt Guilliatt along with other experts from clinical practice and research. 

What our students say:

"Excellent calibre of experienced speakers and variety of opinions.” 
“Really interesting and lots to take away and put into practice.” 
“Up to date evidence-based practice.”
“Interesting and learnt a lot of new information.”
“Highly recommend.” 
“Excellent translation to clinical practice.” 
"Lecturers are friendly, approachable and keen to provide knowledge.”