Musculoskeletal System

This course unravels some of the mysteries of the musculoskeletal system. While musculoskeletal structures function synergistically, the course addresses the skeletal system and muscular system as two separate entities for instructional purposes. It begins with an introduction of the components and functions of the skeletal system, provides an overview of skeletal system disorders, and discusses the drugs commonly used to treat skeleatal disorders. It takes a similar approach to skeletal muscle, muscular disorders, and relevant pharmacology. Some selected disorders are examined more closely, giving you a chance to apply your understanding of anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology to these disorders and their treatment.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to describe the anatomy and physiology of the skeletal system, common disorders of the system, and pharmacology related to the system, as well as describe the anatomy and physiology of the muscular system, common disorders (and terminology) of the system, and pharmacology related to the system. 

Who Should Take This Course

Sales representatives and managers who interact with clinicians who commonly treat patients with musculoskeletal disorders, including primary care physicians, rheumatologists, orthopedic surgeons, emergency room (ER) physicians, podiatrists (foot specialists), osteopaths, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners, and those who would benefit from a knowledge of this important body system. 

Career Applications/Benefits

Many disorders are associated with the musculoskeletal system. Developing an understanding of these disorders and the role pharmacology plays in their treatment will help healthcare representatives and others to appreciate the challenges faced by clinicians who treat patients with these disorders. The information provided will help healthcare representatives develop confidence and establish credibility when discussing the value of pharmacologic treatment in the context of these disorders. 

Chapter Content 

Chapter One: Anatomy and Physiology of the Skeletal System

  • Skeletal Functions and Structures
  • The Articular System

Chapter Two: Pharmacology Related to the Skeletal System

  • Overview of Skeletal System Disorders
  • Pharmacology Relevant to Skeletal System Disorders
  • Anti-inflammatory Drugs
  • Central Nervous System Drugs
  • Miscellaneous Classes and Agents

Chapter Three: Selected Disorders of the Skeletal System

  • Disorders of Joints and Synovial Structures
  • Bone Disorders

Chapter Four: Anatomy and Physiology of the Muscular System

  • Skeletal Muscle and Surrounding Structures
  • Muscle Contractions
  • Muscle Actions and Nomenclature

Chapter Five: Pharmacology Related to the Muscular System

  • Overview of Muscular System Disorders
  • Pharmacology Relevant to Muscular System Disorders
  • Discussion of Relevant Drug Classes

Chapter Six: Selected Disorders of the Muscular System

  • Discussion of Selected Disorders

Course Consultant 

Arthur G. Lipman, PharmD, FASHP
University Professor, Department of Pharmacotherapy, College of Pharmacy
Adjunct Professor, Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine
Director of Clinical Pharmacology, Pain Management Center, University Health Care
University of Utah Health Sciences Center
Salt Lake City, Utah
Course:
SCI-421
Credits:
3
Edition:
Eighth
Program(s):
CMR

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