Functional radiology and diagnostic imaging for physiotherapists

Functional radiology and diagnostic imaging for physiotherapists

 

The training is intended for Bachelor’s level physiotherapy graduates and practicing physiotherapists. The training will be conducted in English. The course is conducted together with Master’s level physiotherapy students. Up to 5 external participants may be admitted to the course in addition to the enrolled Master’s students.

Requirements to start studies: Bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy or a related field; basic professional knowledge and skills in physiotherapy. Participants are required to have English language proficiency at B2 level or above.

The purpose of the training: To develop advanced competence in diagnostic imaging methodologies for musculoskeletal assessment, enabling critical analysis of imaging techniques, comprehensive understanding of modality selection, and technical proficiency in ultrasound diagnostics.

 

Learning outcomes: 

Upon completion of the training, the participant will be able to:

1. Critically compare and evaluate different diagnostic imaging modalities for musculoskeletal assessment, justifying selection based on specific clinical scenarios and patient characteristics.

2. Critically analyze diagnostic imaging findings across multiple modalities in musculoskeletal assessment, demonstrating advanced diagnostic reasoning by distinguishing normal anatomical variants from pathological conditions, while systematically evaluating the limitations, potential biases, and clinical implications of imaging techniques.

3. Execute ultrasound diagnostics through a comprehensive approach that demonstrates technical skills in image acquisition and interpretation, enabling systematic understanding of musculoskeletal ultrasound examination techniques.

4. Critically evaluate current research on diagnostic imaging in musculoskeletal care, translating scientific evidence into advanced clinical reasoning and physiotherapeutic decision-making strategies.

 

Training methods: Lectures, seminars and discussions, e-learning, practical laboratory sessions including hands-on ultrasound training, independent study, and case-based learning.

 

The structure and capacity of the course:

1. Auditory work items (lectures, seminars): 9 hours

Topics include:

• Anatomy of the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, ankle, and spine, with recognition of key anatomical structures using different imaging modalities.
• Overview of diagnostic imaging modalities and their clinical applications.
• Musculoskeletal ultrasound pathology case discussions (upper and lower extremity)

2. Practical work items (laboratory work / hands-on training): 28 hours

Topics include:

• Introduction to Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
• Ultrasound machine operation (transducers, controls, safety considerations)
• Basic image acquisition and optimization
• Recognition of normal anatomical structures
• Upper and lower extremity ultrasound (scanning)
• Image recognition exercises and guided discussions
• Live patient demonstration
• Clinical reasoning and interpretation of ultrasound findings

3. Independent work items (e-learning and self-study): 41 hours

Independent learning activities include:

• Fundamentals of musculoskeletal ultrasound, including basic ultrasound physics and clinical applications.
• Self-directed study of musculoskeletal anatomy and diagnostic imaging modalities, including indications and contraindications.
• Guided independent learning related to contact sessions, including preparation before and consolidation after learning activities. Detailed instructions, learning materials, and tasks are provided in Moodle.
• Preparation and continuous development of a portfolio for summative assessment, documenting the participant’s learning process, integration of theory and practice, and achievement of the learning outcomes.

 

Course schedule and preparatory independent learning activities

During the weeks without scheduled contact sessions, participants engage in guided independent learning activities. The first independent assignment must be completed before the first onsite contact session. Detailed instructions for this assignment will be provided in Moodle. Access to the Moodle course will be arranged by the training provider before the start of the course.

Contact session days

Date	Time	Activity	Mode
21-22 September 2026	08:30-15:00	Practical training	Onsite
19 October 2026	12:15-13:45	Lecture	Online
21 October 2026	10:15-11:45	Seminar	Online
9-10 November 2026	08:30-15:00	Practical training	Onsite
4 December 2026	09:15-11:45	Seminar	Online
11 January 2027	09:15-11:45	Seminar	Online

The on-site sessions are held at Tartu Applied Health Sciences University, Nooruse 5, Tartu, Estonia.

 

Study materials/literature used: Moodle serves as the primary learning environment for the course. Information, learning materials, assignments, deadlines, and submission requirements for all independent learning activities are available there. Supplementary scientific literature may be assigned during the course.

Requirements to complete the study, including the assesment methods and criteria:

Assessment follows a continuous assessment model and includes both formative and summative components. Participants receive formative oral and/or written feedback from the lecturer and peers during seminar and laboratory activities, as well as through independent coursework. The final summative assessment of learning outcomes is non-differentiated and based on a portfolio.

As this is a practical course with continuous formative assessment integrated into all learning activities and progression steps, active participation in contact sessions is essential.

For continuing education participants, occasional absence from contact sessions may be possible in justified cases. In such instances, compensation of missed learning activities will be agreed individually with the lecturer and may include additional independent assignments, make-up tasks, or alternative demonstration of competence aligned with the learning outcomes of the missed session. However, due to the highly practical and interactive nature of the course, full participation in contact learning is strongly recommended to ensure achievement of the learning outcomes.

Throughout the course, the lecturer observes and evaluates the student’s level of insight, clinical reasoning, and integration of practical skills.

Summative assessment method: Portfolio

Assesment criteria:

The portfolio must meet the following requirements to be awarded a pass:

• Includes a clear introduction and a reading guide explaining the structure of the portfolio.
• Demonstrates that the portfolio reflects the participant’s own learning process and work.
• Contains structured weekly reflections from onsite, online, and independent learning activities.
• Reflections demonstrate understanding of key concepts and show how theory is connected to practice, with evidence of learning progression over time.
• Clearly links learning activities, evidence, and the intended learning outcomes.
• Includes relevant supporting materials where appropriate (e.g., notes, images, learning artefacts).
• Clearly and consistently documents all sources used, using transparent academic referencing.
• Respects confidentiality and ethical principles when including any clinical or imaging-related material.

 

The achievement of the training learning outcomes is verified, and a certificate is issued to the learner upon proper completion of the assessment method and criteria. Participant who does not participate in or pass the assessment is issued a certificate of attendance indicating the completed topics.

Learning environment description:

Blended learning environment combining virtual (e-learning, online sessions) and physical (on-site lectures, seminars, and practical laboratory training) settings.

The course is delivered over a semester using a blended learning model supported by the e-Moodle learning environment. Contact sessions take place during designated contact weeks (see timetable) and are delivered either face-to-face on campus (labs) or synchronously online via Teams (lectures, seminars). Face-to-face sessions are conducted in appropriately equipped classrooms that support both theoretical and practical learning activities. These classrooms are equipped with presentation technology (computer, projector, and internet access) as well as the equipment and materials required for practical training, including hands-on diagnostic imaging and ultrasound practice.

Between contact weeks, learners engage in independent study guided by planned learning activities and their individual learning needs. During this period, learners are responsible for managing their own study process, meeting established deadlines, and completing assigned learning tasks. The e-Moodle platform provides access to all course materials, learning activities, detailed instructions, deadlines, and other essential course information. To participate successfully in the course, learners require a computer with a stable internet connection, webcam, microphone, and access to Moodle.

 

Lecturer: Joost van Sijll, MSc, Fontys University of Applied Sciences lecturer / expert in musculoskeletal ultrasound. Lecturer is a physical therapist and manual therapist with over 20 years of clinical practice and extensive expertise in musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging. Since 2017, the lecturer has taught musculoskeletal ultrasound courses for physiotherapists and general practitioners at Fontys University of Applied Sciences and Fontys PRO in the Netherlands. The lecturer has continuously developed professional expertise through participation in numerous advanced musculoskeletal ultrasound courses and continuing professional education programmes.

Registration: You can register for the course by completing the form below or contact us by email hanna.moor(at)tartuh.ee. If you wish to register on behalf of a company, please select “Registreerin ettevõtte alt” and then fill in all required fields. After registering, you will receive an email confirming your pre-registration for the course. A couple of weeks before the course, an invoice will be sent to you, and once the invoice is paid, your registration will be confirmed. If you have any questions, please call or email: hanna.moor(at)tartuh.ee

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