Module Directory

This course is aimed at experienced musculoskeletal practitioners, working at or towards Advanced Clinical Practitioners status. These clinicians who work in the field of musculoskeletal medicine will gain a greater understanding on the impact of medication on musculoskeletal rehabilitation. This module would be ideal for those working in primary, secondary and tertiary care and First Contact Practitioner roles.

Physiotherapists and other AHP’s working in the UK will be expected to give advice about medication use in some capacity to their patients. The type of advice and support given to patients will vary dependent on their status as either a non-prescriber, supplementary or independent prescriber. Clinicians who give advice about medication should understand the legislative framework underpinning quality assurances as well as its impact on musculoskeletal health and its role in rehabilitation of musculoskeletal conditions.

This module aims to support and develop critical thinking of practicing clinicians in understanding the impact of commonly prescribed medications on musculoskeletal health and its effects on rehabilitation. After completion of this course, students will have a grounded understanding of the impact of NSAID’s, analgesics and neuropathic pain medications on musculoskeletal tissue health and wider effects on rehabilitation. Students will also have increased knowledge and understanding of the legal and professional framework surrounding medicines legislation which will inform safe practice within their speciality.

This module is suitable for Advanced Clinical Practitioners and First Contact Physiotherapists. The learning aligns with HEE’s Multiprofessional Advanced Clinical Practice Framework, A Roadmap to Practice and the Musculoskeletal Core Capability Framework (Domain C: Capability 8 Pharmacotherapy).

As most students are in full-time employment and located some distance to the university, this module enables remote study using e-learning technology, (Moodle) and remote tutorials via Zoom. The postgraduate musculoskeletal team at The University of Essex prioritise enabling study and minimising barriers; tutors will aim to be flexible with tutorial times and responsive to individual’s clinical, professional, and personal circumstances.

Applicants should have a relevant first degree OR a relevant professional experience or qualifications that demonstrates ability to study at Level 7. A minimum of 1 year post-registration experience. Current Registration with the relevant UK or equivalent professional body Current registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) or equivalent (eg GMC for doctors and NMC for nurses).

The aims of this module are:

• To provide students with critical understanding of the scientific, clinical and professional considerations relating to medication commonly used in musculoskeletal management.


• To develop and evidence advanced clinical skills that will enhance the management of a range of musculoskeletal conditions.

By the end of this module, students will be expected to be able to:

1. Demonstrate advanced clinical assessment skills that reflect individualised responses to musculoskeletal patients’ presentations.


2. Critically reflect upon knowledge, understanding and application of indications, contraindications, effects, and side-effects of commonly prescribed therapeutic drugs in musculoskeletal conditions (NSAID’s, analgesics & Neuropathic).


3. Critically evaluate the impact of commonly prescribed medications on tissue health and rehabilitation using the available evidence base in relation to decision making within musculoskeletal management.


4. Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of the legal and professional framework underpinning safe practice and quality assurance with giving medication advice.


5. Evidence a personal contribution and commitment to a culture of organisational learning.

Students will undertake face to face learning on academic material and clinical scenarios that relate to the following key areas:

• Overview of pharamco-kinetics and parmaco-dynamics


• Drug history assessment


• The use, action and side effects of common analgesics, NSAIDs & Neuropathic Medications


• Common Drug Interactions


• The effects of NSAID’s, Analgesics & Neuropathic medication on tissue health and impact on rehabilitation


• Legal and professional prescribing framework

This module will be delivered via:

• Four days (9am – 12:30pm) of ‘face to face’ teaching (typically via a digital platform)
  • Will include lectures and task driven seminars

The module teaching material will be available to all registered students via the university's intranet learning platform, Moodle.

The module leader will be available to answer queries via e-mail. Students will be registered with their appropriate professional body. They will be practicing clinicians within the field of musculoskeletal medicine.