Certificate in
Differential Diagnosis in Physiotherapy (Cert. DD)
Upon successful completion of DD series (Upper and Lower quadrant), candidates are awarded the Certification in Differential Diagnosis (Cert. DD) credential. Many serious pathologies of the spine mimic musculoskeletal disorder as their early clinical manifestation. With physiotherapy profession progressively assuming first contact roles and direct access worldwide, there is a need for advanced training, knowledge, clinical reasoning, differential diagnosis, and triage skills. Above all, it is essential that clinicians have the ability to recognize the key elements of the patient history, and the physical examination which may be indicative of serious pathology or a potential risk of serious adverse events. The key objective of any examination is to filter out those patients who are outside the physiotherapy scope and may need referral for further examination or testing to ensure the best prognosis.
[DD-1] Differential Diagnosis in Physiotherapy
Screening for Referral of the Cervical Spine
Clinical Practice Guidelines recommend to rule out serious pathologies in individuals complaining of neck pain as a priority. However, the differential diagnosis of the cervical spine is a real challenge for clinicians. During the course, serious pathologies of the neck, with their pathophysiology, prodromes and clinical manifestations will be presented. In addition, relevant red flags, clinical decision rules, tests, and screening tools will be practiced. For each pathology commonly mimicking non-specific neck pain, real clinical cases will be discussed in advanced differential reasoning sessions. The ability to perform a complete neurological examination and an up-to-date diagnostic process of cervical radiculopathies will be explored. Finally, attention will also be paid to interdisciplinary communication in an emergency setting.
Regularprice:550€ LUNEXalumni:450€ ALKmembers:450€ Placementpartners:450€ LUNEXstudents:350€
Useful informations
During this 16-hour course (30% theory, 70% hands-on practical), ongoing up-to-date evidence will be presented that underpins a modern, effective, and safe delivery of high velocity low amplitude spinal thrust manipulation for spinal disorders. Participants will learn the contraindication and to deliver one technique for each region of the spine:
- KNOWLEDGE: The main symptoms and signs of serious pathologies that commonly mimic a musculoskeletal manifestation; Understanding the theoretical basis of the screening for referral process, the structure of clinical reasoning and decision making for the purpose of the physiotherapist's differential diagnostic process; an updated diagnostic process for cervical radiculopathies; the fundamentals of neurological examination.
- HARD SKILLS: Apply and interpret efficiency, effectiveness, appropriateness and safety of theoretical principles and screening tools useful to triage pathologies outside the physiotherapy scope.
- SOFT SKILLS: A modern physiotherapist with advanced proficiency in the processes of differential diagnosis, in the assessment and management of neck pain resulting from serious pathologies as well as competencies and communication skills to deal with other health professionals, general practitioners or branch specialists.
Registrants must be licensed physiotherapists or medical doctors in their respective state or country. Physiotherapy students are also allowed to participate. However, they must be at least at their third year of the bachelor degree.
Meet the instructor
Dr. Firas Mourad
Our educational level is in line with the highest international education standards. Dr. Firas Mourad is a Senior Lecturer at LUNEX University, has earned a PhD on the topic, and is experienced having taught spinal manipulation around the world.