Competencies
The core competencies include:

1. Performance of a history and physical exam of the musculoskeletal system; integrated with an understanding of the underlying anatomy.
2. Interpretation of basic laboratory and imaging studies of the musculoskeletal system.
3. Diagnose and initiate treatment for patients presenting with acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, arthritis, and spinal disorders.
4. Explain the physiology of metabolic bone disease and apply it to the evaluation, prevention and treatment of osteoporosis and osteomalacia.
5. Apply splints and casts and perform joint aspiration.