Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy IB - PHTY5137

This unit introduces students to the sub-specialty stream of musculoskeletal physiotherapy and to evidence-based practice and professional practice. In tutorials, musculoskeletal assessments (history-taking; muscle strength; joint range of motion; physiological and functional tests), evidence-based practice, and exercise prescription are practised and underpinning theories discussed. Lectures address these assessments, as well as evidence-based practice, muscle length, application and interpretation of reliability statistics pertinent to the research project,common conditions (osteoarthritis and the inflammatory arthritides) affecting the musculoskeletal system and a related case study, and professional practice . The evidence-based practice component introduces students to concepts, principles and some of the skills required to practice evidence-based physiotherapy in relation to effects of therapy. Professional Practice introduces the issues and practices in healthcare delivery affecting physiotherapists, including relevant professional, state and federal policies. Students also examine policies related to professional conduct promoted by the Physiotherapy Board of Australia (PBA) (and the pre-existing NSW Physiotherapy Registration Board), and the Professional Codes of Conduct of the PBA and learn to apply this code and guidelines in ethical and clinical decision-making. The importance of communication, documentation and respect for cultural differences in professional practice is addressed. (Remaining course content for evidence-based and professional practice is embedded in later UOS.) This unit is a companion of PHTY5136 MS1A, and it lays the foundation for Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy II, III and IV. Also included in this unit are compulsory Faculty modules on academic honesty and effective professional communication (accelerated communication excellence).

Classes
2x1hr lec and 2x1hr tut/wk

Assessment
practical skills assessment (20%), individual 1000wd written report (20%), 1x2hr end-semester written exam (60%)

Additional information
Note that 90% attendance is required in tutorials

Assumed knowledge
Bachelor’s Degree Level study in Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Neuroscience, Psychology, and Exercise Physiology is essential. Knowledge of Motor Performance and Learning and Biomechanics is desirable but not essential.

PHTY5136