Certificate in Advanced Practice in Hand and Upper Quarter Rehabilitation: Curriculum

The curriculum is based on the belief that adult learning formats, interaction among therapists, and faculty mentorship are integral to the success of post-professional education. Emphasis is on critical thinking and methods of learning that promote the transfer of knowledge into practice. As part of the learning process, therapists are encouraged to share and expand on their professional experiences and skills.
Drexel University resources including the libraries are easy to navigate via a distance format. The program is designed for part-time study so students should be able to maintain their current work schedules and other personal obligations.

The Certificate in Advanced Practice in Hand and Upper Quarter Rehabilitation utilizes distance education technology and integrated weekend laboratory sessions to teach cadaver anatomy, splinting skills, and examination techniques. Infused with the latest technology for distance learning, students will participate in class activities using communication tools via the computer.

The curriculum consists of 4 courses:

Fall Quarter
PTRS 767 Foundations in Hand Therapy (4 credits)
This course introduces the student to the specialized field of hand therapy. The principles of hand therapy included are musculoskeletal tissues and pathology, clinical reasoning, hand examination, splinting principles, physical agents, and therapeutic exercise. Common elbow, wrist, and hand disorders are discussed to integrate the foundation topics into clinical practice. This course serves as a prerequisite course for PTRS 768, PTRS 769, and PTRS 770.

Winter Quarter
PTRS 768 Upper Quarter Joint Pathology (4 credits)
This course reviews the common pathologies that effect the articulations and surrounding soft tissues, especially tendons and ligaments. Anatomy, biomechanics, and examination principles for each region: shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand are discussed. Conservative and post-operative therapeutic management for fractures, dislocations, tendon repairs, ligament injuries, and degenerative disorders are presented.

Spring Quarter
PTRS 769 Nerve Injuries of Upper Qtr (4 credits)
This course emphasizes the anatomy and basic science principles for the cervical spine and major peripheral nerves of the upper quarter. Age-related changes and pathophysiology of nerve lacerations and entrapment neuropathies are discussed. Advanced examination skills and interventions, conservative and post-operative, for pathology of the peripheral nervous system are presented.

Summer Quarter
PTRS 770 Diseases That Affect the Hand (4 credits)
Course content emphasizes the impact of disease on hand function, especially with activities of daily living, vocational activities, and recreational activities. The overview will include pathology, clinical presentation, examination techniques and clinical interventions specific to the hand. Additionally, multi-system involvement associated with mutilated hand injuries and pain syndromes is discussed.

For additional information please view the Drexel University Course Catalog.