GP Cases- Acute musculoskeletal and sports injuries

The GP Cases: Acute Musculoskeletal and Sports Injuriescourse is structured into five units, each focusing on different aspects of managing musculoskeletal and sports injuries in general practice. Presented by Dr. David Pugh, a specialist in sports and exercise medicine, the course provides in-depth knowledge on diagnosing and managing acute injuries with practical approaches that can be applied in a clinical setting.

Unit 1: Assessing Injuries This unit introduces the foundations of musculoskeletal injury assessment, emphasising the importance of obtaining a detailed history and understanding the mechanism of injury. It discusses the physical examination process, focusing on inspection, palpation, range of motion, and neurovascular assessment. Dr. Pugh provides practical tips on using clinical clues to make accurate diagnoses, such as recognising signs of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears and other common injuries​.

Unit 2: Classification In this unit, participants learn to classify different types of musculoskeletal injuries, including soft tissue injuries and closed injuries like strains and sprains. Dr. Pugh explains the use of acronyms such as PRICE and POLICE for immediate injury management, focusing on the principles of protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation. The unit also highlights the importance of understanding the healing process and how optimal loading can promote recovery.

Unit 3: Diagnosis and Management This unit covers the diagnosis and management of common injuries like ankle sprains, syndesmosis injuries, medial collateral ligament (MCL) tears, hamstring injuries, groin strains, and adhesive capsulitis. Dr. Pugh offers a detailed breakdown of the grading system for ligament tears, management strategies, and when to consider surgical intervention. The unit also discusses conservative treatment options, including physiotherapy, and the importance of restoring proprioception during rehabilitation​.

Unit 4: Types of Injuries – Part 1 Focusing on specific injury types, this unit delves into MCL sprains, hamstring tears, and groin strains. Dr. Pugh shares case studies from his experience in elite sports to illustrate risk factors, mechanisms of injury, and treatment approaches. Participants will learn about the classification of hamstring tears, from mild strains to complete ruptures, and the management protocols for these injuries, including rehabilitation and prevention strategies​.

Unit 5: Types of Injuries – Part 2 The final unit explores adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) and concussion. Dr. Pugh explains the pathophysiology, risk factors, and stages of adhesive capsulitis, as well as the management approaches to restore function and alleviate pain. In the discussion on concussion, participants will learn about the diagnosis, red flag symptoms, and the protocols for safe return to sport following head injuries. This unit underscores the importance of recognising and managing concussions in both professional and general practice settings​.

This course equips general practitioners with the essential skills to assess, diagnose, and manage a variety of musculoskeletal and sports injuries, enhancing patient care and outcomes in both acute and chronic cases.