Introduction

Spondyloarthropathy is a chronic form of inflammatory arthritis which has axial and peripheral manifestations, as well as extra-articular features. Because of its varied presentation, diagnosing spondyloarthropathy can be a lengthy and complex process. While only rheumatologists are able to diagnose spondyloarthropathy, it is important that other clinicians, including physiotherapists, are able to recognise features consistent with these conditions to ensure prompt referral. This course will outline some of the key classification systems developed for differential diagnosis to improve early detection of spondyloarthropathy.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this course you will be able to:

• explain the importance of early diagnosis of spondyloarthropathy
• list the radiological and clinical criteria of the Modified New York Classification Criteria for axial spondyloarthritis
• describe the ASAS Criteria for axial and peripheral spondyloarthritis
• discuss the Criteria of the Classification of Psoriatic Arthritis (CASPAR) system for psoriatic arthritis
• determine when referral to a specialist is warranted based upon a case scenario about spondyloarthropathy

Target audience

This course is aimed at Physiotherapy and Physical Therapy clinicians, students and assistants. Other interested professionals such as athletic trainers, occupational therapists, nurses or medical doctors interested in this subject are also invited to participate.

Practicalities

• Availability - this course is online and can be completed on your own schedule.
• Hours of Learning - No deadlines are applied to this course and it can be started and completed in your own time according to your personal schedule. We expect the required elements to take around 1-1.5 hours depending on your schedule and learning style. Additionally there are many optional resources provided and if you choose to review these the course could take longer to complete.
• Types of Activities - This course includes instructional and/or practical videos, reading activities, AI supported learning activities, reflection, evaluation forms, a quiz and additional resources.
• Certificates - At the end of the course, when you have completed all of the required elements, you will be able to download a certificate of completion and 1 Plus points will be added to your personalised learning dashboard.

Instructor financial and non-financial disclosures

Financial disclosures by Christopher Martey:
Versus Arthritis Charity (UK): Musculoskeletal Core Skills Trainer - whilst my content for Plus is predominantly Rheumatology and not Musculoskeletal, there may be some overlap.

Non-financial disclosures by Christopher Martey:
Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Alliance (ARMA, Charity, UK): Vice-Chair and Trustee of the Charity - Voluntary unpaid role, however, do get travel and expenses reimbursement at some events and for Board meetings that are not held online

Accessibility and Non-Discrimination Policy

Physiopedia Plus is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible learning environment for all participants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, national origin, religion, sex, disability, military status, sexual orientation or age in any aspect of our continuing education services. We are dedicated to ensuring that all learners can fully participate in our programmes. Participants who require accommodations or have special needs are encouraged to contact us with details so that we can make all reasonable efforts to meet these requirements.