Diploma in injection therapy course is designed to provide training in injection therapy for doctors and chartered physiotherapists. The course covers techniques for common peripheral musculoskeletal conditions.

• to introduce clinicians already competent in musculo-skeletal medicine to the advanced skills of injection therapy
• to update in the relevant literature on the subject
• to review functional and surface anatomy related to needle placement
• to instruct in the principles of pharmacology of the drugs used
• to advise on the indications and contraindications of injection therapy
• to train in the practical use of injections in the treatment of common peripheral articular and peri-articular lesions
• to instruct in the legal and ethical considerations of injection therapy

Learning outcomes by the end of the course the student will be able to:

• competently select patients suitable for injection therapy
• communicate effectively regarding treatment choice and clinical outcomes of injection therapy
• confidently assess the advantages and disadvantages of injection therapy
• demonstrate good aseptic techniques in the application of the treatment
• show skilful practical application of needle placement
• recognise warning signs of adverse reactions to any of the drugs used and initiate appropriate management
• clearly define all aspects of post-injection aftercare and rehabilitation
• demonstrate advanced clinical reasoning through a synthesis of practical, theoretical and experiential learning
• critically evaluate injection therapy as an adjunct to other treatment

Entry Criteria for Chartered Physiotherapists

Injection therapy is an advanced treatment technique. This course is open to a limited number of chartered physiotherapists who fulfil the entry criteria and produce the appropriate documentation at the time of application:

1. Diploma in Orthopaedic Medicine/MSOM/OMI certification - within the past 10 years OR a pass in the peripheral examination - see dates of forthcoming peripheral courses.
2. Minimum four years post-qualification working experience.
3. Minimum of two years musculo-skeletal clinical practice.
4. Current certificate in resuscitation.
5. Current certificate of vaccination for Hepatitis B.
6. Written confirmation from employer that they will allow the use of injection therapy in the workplace.
7. Written confirmation from medical mentor/s who has/have agreed to supervise your intermodular clinical practice . (Approved physiotherapists with the Diploma of Injection Therapy may supervise up to 5 injections.)

Course Tutors

• Stephanie Saunders FCSP FSOM
• Steve Longworth MB ChB MRCGP DM-S Med DPCR FSOM
• Gordon Cameron MB ChB MRCGP DM-SMed DCH FSOM
• Steve Holden MB BS DRCOG