Physical Activity and Musculoskeletal Health

Physical activity and musculoskeletal health are prerequisites for longevity and well-being and is mandatory for societal. we have experienced increasingly sedentary societies and rising impact of pain and disability in the musculoskeletal system all over the world resulting in exponential increase in treatments in the health care system. We need to understand why that is and what to do about it and to create better validated treatments.

The answers to an evidence-based strategy for effective prevention, diagnosis and treatment of common musculoskeletal conditions can only come from research; relevant research of the highest methodological quality is carried out by researchers with many different professional backgrounds.

At the Faculty of Health Sciences, SDU and at Odense University Hospital, we have a long tradition for research in this area and the education for PhD students is supported by our Graduate programme in physical activity and musculoskeletal health. The primary activity of the programme is high quality courses on research methodology ranging from courses on sociological issues over epidemiology and basic science to clinical research focusing on testing of new treatments. The courses are intended for PhD students at SDU and other Danish Universities as well as for an international audience.

We hope you find that the courses are relevant for your PhD education. Please discuss attending our courses with your supervisors. And don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding our graduate programme.

The Graduate Programme for Physical Activity and Musculoskeletal Health is organised as an open offer of activities within the field of the graduate programme. The activities are open for all PhD students enrolled at Danish and Foreign universities. Students enrolled at other universities than the University of Southern Denmark pay course fees in accordance with the standard agreement between the relevant universities.

In addition, our activities are open, free of charge, to other employees at the University of Southern Denmark.

Find our courses in the overview of all offered PhD courses.

Simultaneously, the courses function as a meeting place for supervisors and researchers within the fields of physical activity & musculoskeletal health. Therefore the courses are available for everyone in this field. Other persons interested can participate after agreement with one of the programme directors. We constantly establish new courses - If you have an idea for a new course, please contact us (See the section "Contact" below).

Is your question of a scientific nature or regarding course content?

Please contact the programme directors:

Jonas Bloch Thorlund
Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics
University of Southern Denmark
Campusvej  55
DK-5230 Odense M

Phone: +45 6550 3894
E-mail: jthorlund@health.sdu.dk

Anders Holsgaard Larsen
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology
Odense University Hospital
Sdr. Boulevard 29
DK-5000 Odense C

Phone: +45 6541 2286
E-mail: AHLarsen@health.sdu.dk

Or of a practical nature?

Please contact the Graduate School, phd@health.sdu.dk