GP Cases: Managing the weekend sportsperson

"GP Cases: Managing the Weekend Sportsperson" is a comprehensive course structured to guide general practitioners through the essentials of sports injury management, tailored for amateur athletes. The program is divided into four units:

Unit 1: Background and Data
This unit sets the stage with key data on the benefits and risks of physical activity. It explores the evolving lifestyle trends that have increased sports participation across all age groups, highlighting the prevalence and costs of sports-related injuries. Participants will gain insights into the importance of promoting physical activity while mitigating injury risks through preventive strategies.

Unit 2: A Top-Line Approach
Focusing on musculoskeletal injuries, this unit delves into classification methods, common injury mechanisms, and practical approaches for assessment. Participants will learn to identify acute and chronic injuries, differentiate between upper and lower limb injuries, and apply foundational principles like history-taking, examination, and imaging. Techniques for identifying soft tissue damage and decision-making on imaging options such as X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds are covered.

Unit 3: Management Principles
This unit emphasises evidence-based management strategies. Topics include pain relief options, the role of anti-inflammatory medications, and rehabilitation frameworks like the "PEACE and LOVE" acronym. The focus is on encouraging active recovery, proper load management, and patient education to avoid over-treatment and foster long-term recovery. Practical guidance on referral pathways, including physiotherapy and orthopaedic interventions, is also provided.

Unit 4: Case Study Example
Through a real-world case study, participants apply learned concepts to diagnose and manage a complex ankle injury. This unit demonstrates the integration of history-taking, examination, imaging, and tailored treatment plans. It reinforces the importance of rehabilitation, patient education, and collaboration with specialists to achieve optimal outcomes.

The course offers interactive assessments, recommended readings, and a self-paced format to accommodate busy professionals. Accredited by leading organisations, it ensures practitioners are equipped with current best practices to address the diverse needs of the weekend sportsperson.