Improve proficiency with the application of manual examination and treatment procedures.  Approximately 80% of class time is devoted to lab demonstration and practice sessions.

Improve proficiency with and provide a framework for the observational analysis of movement in the lower and upper quarter to better guide examination and treatment planning for patients with common musculoskeletal disorders.

Improve clinical reasoning and decision making within the context of the Description of Specialty Practice (DSP) in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy published by the Orthopaedic Specialty Council.

Improve knowledge in the DSP content areas which provides the framework for the Orthopaedic Certified Specialist (OCS) exam and Orthopaedic Physical Therapy residency programs.

Integrate the principles of interviewing techniques into physical therapy clinical practice, enabling participants in this course to improve their effectiveness with physical therapy management of patients with and without mental disorders co-existing with their physical disorders.

Understand and discuss the scope of practice, supervision roles, and requirements for physical therapists in the state of California.