Musculoskeletal Pathophysiology

Module Description

This organ system-based module provides an in-depth understanding of the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the musculoskeletal system. This comprehensive module covers the structure and function of bones, muscles, joints, and connective tissues, along with the common disorders that affect these components, such as fractures, arthritis, muscular dystrophies, soft tissue injuries, and bone tumors. Students will learn to assess, diagnose, and manage musculoskeletal conditions, integrating pharmacological, surgical, and rehabilitative treatment strategies. Emphasizing a holistic approach, the module aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective patient care in orthopedics and related fields, fostering an understanding of the impact of musculoskeletal health on overall well-being.

---

Module Goals

• To gain a comprehensive understanding of the musculoskeletal system's structure, function, and integration into body mechanics and movement.

• To develop clinical skills for the assessment, diagnosis, and management of musculoskeletal disorders.

• To apply evidence-based approaches in the formulation of treatment plans for patients with musculoskeletal conditions.

• To foster an appreciation for the multidisciplinary approach to treating musculoskeletal conditions, including surgery, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.

---

Module Learning Objectives

By the end of this module, students will:

Module Learning Objective	Medical Education Program Objective
Identify and describe the anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system, focusing on the structural features and functions of bones, muscles, joints, and connective tissues.	Knowledge for Practice 8. Apply knowledge of the biomedical sciences to care for patients.
Explain the biomechanics of movement and discuss the pathophysiological basis of common musculoskeletal disorders, including autoimmune, inflammatory, degenerative, and traumatic conditions.	Knowledge for Practice 8. Apply knowledge of the biomedical sciences to care for patients. 9. Apply established and emerging principles of clinical sciences to diagnostic and therapeutic decision-making, clinical problem-solving, and other aspects of evidence-based health care.
Demonstrate the principles of assessing musculoskeletal disorders through history-taking, physical examination, and the introductory use of diagnostic imaging such as radiography.	Patient Care 1. Gather essential and accurate information about patients and their conditions through history-taking, physical examination, and the use of laboratory data, imaging, and other tests.
Outline basic management plans for musculoskeletal conditions, integrating non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments, and outlining the roles of surgical interventions and physical rehabilitation	Patient Care 3. Make informed decisions about diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
Analyze hypothetical clinical case scenarios to explore multidisciplinary approaches in the management of musculoskeletal issues.	Patient Care 3. Make informed decisions about diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Practice-Based Learning and Improvement 13. Locate, appraise, and assimilate evidence from scientific studies related to patients' health problems.
Evaluate the impact of chronic musculoskeletal diseases on patients' quality of life, emphasizing the integration of social determinants of health into comprehensive care plans	Patient Care 7. Provide health care services to patients, families, and communities aimed at maintaining health and wellbeing. Systems-Based Practice 23. Demonstrate approaches to addressing structural factors that may impact healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.
Describe the principles of rehabilitation including physical therapy modalities and exercises tailored for various musculoskeletal conditions to restore function and reduce pain.	Patient Care 3. Make informed decisions about diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. 5. Counsel and educate patients and their families so that they can participate in their care and enable shared decision making.