Standard assessment of low back disorders course

Learn how to assess and diagnose a typical low back disorder presentation

The STOPS.physio course on standard assessment of low back disorders.

This course can either be purchased individually or as part of the STOPS Assessment and treatment of low back disorders four course bundle.

Based on ground breaking research from the STOPS trial and the latest evidence-based literature. After completing this course practitioners will have sufficient knowledge to assess and diagnose a typical low back disorder patient in a primary care setting.

This course is divided into modules which are a series of topic specific lectures. Through-out these lectures you will have the opportunity to test your understanding by completing multiple attempt quiz questions.

Content for this online learning course includes:

  • Evidence-based epidemiology update
  • Subjective examination including body chart, history, behaviour of symptoms, special questions
  • Physical examination including observation, active movement testing, lower limb neurological, provocative neurodynamic testing, palpation, mini-treatment
  • Classification and diagnosis, red flags, psychosocial screening tools and outcome measures
  • Quality video and photo images to enhance the learning of practical skills
  • Interactive exercises to test your understanding

Course format includes text, 9 interactive tests of your understanding, 22 photos, 10 videos and numerous tables/figures.

Quizzes throughout the course will assist the practitioner in self assessment of progress.The practitioner will be able to have multiple attempts at these quizzes and their completion is not compulsory. Formal assessment and certification is an optional extra for the practitioner to ensure the above learning outcomes have been achieved.


Course Curriculum


  Standard assessment of low back disorders course introduction
Available in days
days after you enroll
  Epidemiology module
Available in days
days after you enroll

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Your Instructor


Jon Ford
Jon Ford

Jon Ford (PhD, M Physio, BAppScPhysio, Cred MDT – Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist) is a Director of the STOPS.physio research and clinical education team.

Jon’s research and clinical interest is individualized treatment for people with low back disorders based on the rigorous identification of barriers to recovery.

He has recently published the Specific Treatment of Problems of the Spine (STOPS) clinical trial as well as a number of other studies on the relative importance of pathoanatomical versus non-pathoanatomical factors in clinical decision making.



Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course starts now and never ends! It is a completely self-paced online course - you decide when you start and when you finish.
How long do I have access to the course?
How does lifetime access sound? After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this course for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
We would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact us in the first 30 days and we will give you a full refund.