MPod Podiatry Degree at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh

Introduces relevant local policies and procedures, HCPC standards and fitness to practice standards as well as communications skills and patient centered care and biopsychosocial approaches for clinical practice. The module focuses on developing first line clinical skills for podiatric practice (vascular assessments, joint testing, muscle strength/function tests, neurological examination and skin and nail pathology) as well as orthotic practical sessions. There is also a theoretical component of

Explores the AHP professional context and related concepts, including communication, duty of care, equality and diversity, resilience, clinical governance, person centered practice, professional ethics, HCPC governance and professional body guidance, health and social care strategy, and medicolegal concepts related to AHP practice.

Introduction to the terminology used in the study of anatomy and detailed overview of the structural anatomy of the lower limb, including the knee hip and pelvis, but with particular emphasis on the foot and ankle.

Provides a knowledge base on the human body and its functions, focusing on neuromuscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine, renal, hepatic and gastrointestinal systems.

Provides new knowledge and understanding of the pathological processes relating to the systems covered in human physiology. It introduces the concept of problem-based medicine and provides deeper understanding of physiological processes and the application to the clinical context. In addition, the module covers microorganisms (eg bacteria, fungus and viruses) and its relevance to interactions with humans and health. There will be a practical element focusing on laboratory skills in microbiology,

Explores wellbeing and resilience of the self and others, developing strategies that support personal and professional development and can enhance person-centred practice within the health and social care settings.

Introduces research methods skills to develop the ability to engage with information and developing critical thinking.

Further develops investigation and diagnosis skills in a range of lower limb musculoskeletal/orthopaedic pathologies with more advanced testing and considers appropriate therapeutic regimes including the use of functional foot orthoses, taping and rehabilitation techniques. In addition, the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to administer local analgesia are covered in preparation for surgery in Years Three and Four. You will also attend external placements.

Introduction to biomechanical principles of human movement and apply these to underpinning the knowledge and understanding of normal (and normal variants of) gait.

Develops understanding of a wide range of musculoskeletal (MSK) pathologies impacting the body, and in particular the lower limb(s). It explores the aetiology, pathophysiology and management of these conditions, including exploring the differences between adult and paediatric presentations, and their management. Includes sports injuries, systemic diseases, and paediatric disorders, and how they can impact MSK health.

Further develops the skills in communication and health coaching for supporting behaviour change as well as understanding the impact of different communities, health and social care contexts on health and wellbeing for both individuals and groups.

Builds upon the 'normal gait and biomechanics' module and introduces pathological gait (when walking and running patterns may cause injury or pain) and pathological biomechanics (ie when alignment and or movement patterns can cause or impact pain/disorders of movement).

Continues the theme of research methods further developing the knowledge base in critical thinking and enquiry approach to professional practice covering research ethics and different approaches to conducting research.

Focuses on modes of drug administration and develops understanding of the principles of drug action (including pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics) and develops an understanding of the underlying principles of pharmacological therapy and the rationale for treatment.

Develops more complex skills with examination and evaluation of the 'high risk' lower limb, by developing high level psychomotor skills, and by developing skills to undertake evidence based podiatric practice. You will also undertake assessment of surgical patients as well as injection of local anaesthesia, carry out nail surgery and manage surgical wounds. On placement students will also manage an increasingly complex clinical caseload.

Provides an opportunity to experience simulated teamworking and reflect upon contribution and experiences as a member of a real-world style multidisciplinary team.

Develops understanding of a wide range of diagnostic investigations, eg blood tests, immunology investigations, medical imaging, clinical tests (and more). Through case-based discussion, this module will support translating this theory to practice in order to improve diagnostic capabilities in relation to podiatric practice.

Explores medicine and pathology and how it applies to podiatric practice by developing a knowledge and understanding of physical and biopsychosocial manifestations of systemic diseases. In addition, it develops a critical understanding of the principals, theories and concepts surrounding medicine and pathology.

Builds upon theory in previous years and deepens this within the context of the high risk podiatric setting (ie working with very complex clinical cases). The module explores the management of complex podiatric disorders in areas like: diabetes, renal disease, oncology, and more.

Further develops research methods skills in preparation for dissertation by developing an in-depth understanding of approaches to research, applying knowledge in order to critically appraise evidence and form reasoned conclusions and develop the advanced research skills and knowledge necessary to undertake an independent research project.

Enables development of understanding of disorders of the skin which can present in podiatric practice. Conditions covered range from routine presentations through to potentially life threatening and more complex clinical cases.

Builds upon modules in previous years to continue to enhance students' appreciation of medical imaging and how this can be used to support podiatric practice.

Fulfils the clinical requirements for eligibility for HCPC registration, by developing more advanced skills in the examination, diagnosis, treatment and evaluation of the 'high risk' lower limb. You will continue your minor surgery training as well attending external placements with patients with more complex needs. Theory and simulated practice for steroid injection training will also be taught within this module.

Applies the skills of research and enquiry in a small-scale study which demands a professional approach, academic rigour, independence and self-direction; demonstrating substantial initiative and problem solving skills and ability to apply skills of critical enquiry in order to plan, design, implement and evaluate the project.

Evaluates and applies the concepts of leadership and leading change, intra/entrepreneurship and innovation within the health and social care sector and explores opportunities for leading and developing enterprising ideas for health and wellbeing.

Builds on previous MSK/clinical modules, and focuses specifically on the role of the podiatrist as part of the multidisciplinary team in the sports sector.

Builds on previous clinical and theoretical modules, and explores the role of the podiatrist in the paediatric setting (often podiatric clinical practice in this setting is termed podopaediatrics).