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An evaluation of the structure, function, disorders, and diseases of the vertebral column and its associated tissues. Includes an overview of anatomy, biomechanics, pathology, clinical assessment and treatment options.
MSME 705 is the one of two papers focusing on common musculoskeletal disorders. The paper includes an overview of anatomy, biomechanics, pathology, assessment approaches and treatment options for musculoskeletal problems originating in the spine and associated tissues. Back and neck pain continue to be the most commonly encountered pain problems in primary care, with low-back pain being the most frequently recorded problem for both the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) and those receiving health-related benefits. By developing an in-depth understanding of spine-related problems, clinicians will gain confidence to diagnose and manage these problems in primary care. This paper has a biomedical approach, and non-pharmacological approaches such as exercise or psychological treatments are not discussed.
| Paper title | Regional Disorders - Spine |
|---|---|
| Paper code | MSME705 |
| Subject | Musculoskeletal Medicine |
| EFTS | 0.125 |
| Points | 15 points |
| Teaching period | Not offered in 2021, expected to be offered in 2022 (Distance learning) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees (NZD) | $1,469.75 |
| International Tuition Fees (NZD) | $5,337.00 |
- Limited to
- MHealSc, PGCertHealSc, PGCertMSM, PGDipHealSc, PGDipMSM, PGDipPhty, MPhty
- Eligibility
- Appropriately qualified health professionals such as medical practitioners, physiotherapists, nurses, occupational therapists, osteopaths, chiropractors, etc.
- Contact
- More information link
- View more information on the Musculoskeletal and Pain Management Programmes website
- Teaching staff
Convenor: Dr Iain Bell, with assistance from spinal and radiological experts (To be confirmed).
- Paper Structure
- MSME 705 consists of eight modules, taught sequentially, using both online resources
and fortnightly teaching sessions.
Modules will cover the following topics:- Spine anatomy and biomechanics
- Spine imaging
- Clinical approaches to spinal pain
- The intervertebral disc
- Spondylolysis/listhesis, deformities, fractures and dislocations
- Cervical and thoracic spinal pain
- The lumbar spine and pelvis
- Teaching Arrangements
- Material is delivered electronically and is distance taught. There are eight fortnightly online teaching sessions.
- Textbooks
A useful reference text is:
Clinical Anatomy of the Lumbar Spine and Sacrum by Nikolai Bogduk.
Another useful reference text for those in clinical practice is:
Netter's Concise Orthopaedic Anatomy 2nd Edition by Jon C Thompson
These books are available from both The Book Depository and Amazon.- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Critical thinking, Information literacy.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
- Students who successfully complete the paper will have a detailed knowledge of the common medical and surgical conditions affecting the spine. Students will be able to incorporate this knowledge into their health practice and be able to diagnose and refer patients on for further appropriate therapy.
