Arthritis

with Dr Adam Toyer

Next session: Date to be advised

Degenerative joint disease (DJD) is one of the most common and debilitating diseases affecting all species of animals. Despite the large investment in research, effective and safe treatments are still elusive. Now more than ever though there are a wide variety of treatment options available however deciding which treatment is best both in terms of safety and efficacy can be challenging.

This course will provide participants with a detailed understanding of normal joint structure and physiology. Recent advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of DJD and their importance in diagnosis and treatment options will be outlined. We will look at current and future diagnostic techniques including digital radiography, CT, MRI and biochemical markers. Finally we will bring all the information together to help us decide on a course of action for treatment. Currently available treatment options will be covered, from cortisone through to acupuncture, and future trends will be looked at including IL1ra’s, stem cell therapy and more.

By completion of the course participants will be aware of the latest thoughts on the pathophysiology of DJD and how this can be applied to provide the best diagnostic and treatment options for their patients.

Course content

Modules

Unit 1 The Normal Joint Versus the DJD Joint

Module 1 Joint Components
Module 2 Normal Joint Function
Module 3 Physiology and Biochemistry
Module 4 Aetiology and Occurrence of DJD
Module 5 DJD Pathology

Unit 2 Diagnosis

Module 1 Physical Examination
Module 2 (1) Radiology
Module 2 (2) Typical Radiographic Changes
Module 3 Other Imaging Techniques
Module 4 Biochemical Tests and Joint Fluid Analysis

Unit 3 Management of DJD

Module 1 Treatment Considerations
Module 2 Intra-articular Injection Techniques
Module 3 Weight Loss
Module 4 Nutritional Supplements and Medications
Module 5 Other Management Strategies

Unit 4 Pharmacotherapeutics in DJD

Module 1 Corticosteroids
Module 2 NSAIDs
Module 3 Disease Modifying Osteoarthritic Drugs
Module 4 New and Emerging Treatments

Tutor

Dr Adam Toyer

Enquiries

Please email the TimeOnline coordinator.