Using pertinent patient case examples, emphasis is placed on describing patient history and physical examination findings that may prompt the physical therapist to hypothesize about the existence of medical conditions presenting as musculoskeletal conditions and facilitate appropriate medical evaluation and management strategies. An emphasis of this course will be on clinical decision-making principles in an outpatient, direct-access physical therapy setting. However, the principles presented apply to any clinical setting.

Course Objectives/Outcomes

• Utilize a medical screening form to guide a review of systems across the lifespan
• Recognize red flags for potentially serious conditions not amenable to treatment by a physical therapist or that require referral to other providers
• Recognize potentially serious conditions that can mimic musculoskeletal conditions
• Recognize yellow flags: such as depression or fear avoidance and incorporate these findings into clinical decision-making
• Communicate effectively with referring providers regarding signs/symptoms suggestive of non-musculoskeletal disorders or conditions potentially needing referral or consultation with medical providers
• Demonstrate clinical decision-making skills, including clinical reasoning, clinical judgment, and reflective practice

Applicability

• Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy Fellowship
• Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Residency
• Post-professional DPT in Musculoskeletal Management