The comprehensive Musculoskeletal Core Concepts in Rehabilitation Programme from Physiopedia Plus (Plus) advances clinical assessment skills for physiotherapists worldwide, providing practitioners with a comprehensive pathway to mastering essential hands-on evaluation techniques.
Dr Shala Cunningham (PT, DPT, PhD) leads this Musculoskeletal Core Concepts in Rehabilitation Programme with her extensive expertise in orthopaedics and manual therapy. Her practical teaching approach ensures participants gain both theoretical knowledge and the confidence to apply these techniques in real-world clinical settings. The programme consists of 10 carefully structured courses that progress logically from foundational principles to regional applications.
The curriculum begins with neurological screening techniques, teaching practitioners to effectively integrate dermatome, myotome and reflex testing to screen for neurological impairments in musculoskeletal presentations. Range of motion assessment forms another cornerstone, with dedicated courses covering precision measurement techniques for cervical spine and upper limb, as well as trunk and lower extremity assessments.
Manual muscle testing represents a significant component of the programme, with comprehensive coverage from introductory principles through to specialised testing for the cervical spine, upper limb, trunk and lower limb muscle groups. The programme concludes with foundational assessment techniques including joint mobilisation principles, posture analysis and balance assessment.
Each course includes an optional Physiopedia AI Assistant (PAI) Activity and Knowledge Check, providing additional learning opportunities. This technological integration ensures participants can test their clinical reasoning skills and receive personalised feedback on their understanding.
“It is an excellent course! After you complete this module, make sure you take the PAI quiz to test your clinical reasoning skills! – Elizabeth Ahern, Physiotherapist, Ireland
This programme is ideal for physiotherapy and occupational therapy professionals, athletic trainers and other rehabilitation professionals seeking to enhance their musculoskeletal or kinesiology assessment competencies. Together with the Musculoskeletal Evaluation Programme, these courses provide an evidence-based learning pathway for physiotherapy assessments.
This educational continuum ensures clinicians develop both the foundational assessment knowledge and advanced hands-on skills necessary for excellence in musculoskeletal rehabilitation practice. Healthcare professionals can access this programme as part of their Plus subscription, joining thousands of practitioners worldwide who are implementing these evidence-based assessment techniques in their daily clinical practice.
Physiopedia Plus is a subscription site that offers internationally accredited continuing education and professional development opportunities for the global rehabilitation community in 6 languages.
Your subscription fees fund the Physiopedia charity website to keep it updated and openly accessible to all.
Your subscription also provides FREE access to Plus for rehabilitation professionals in low income countries.
There are also discounts available depending on where you live and for students.