Consolidation of Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Practice

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Abstract

In this subject, students will further develop fundamental principles and practical skills for the physiotherapy management of musculoskeletal presentations (including sports injuries). Students will apply a problem solving approach in the assessment and management of specific presentations that may affect the musculoskeletal system. Learning in this subject will focus initially on the upper limb and progress to the cervical spine and systemic inflammatory conditions. This subject builds on skills learnt in PHS313 in communication, professional and ethical behaviour, and other elements of professional practice including reflection and critical analysis.

Syllabus

Theoretical principles of musculoskeletal management;Specific musculoskeletal history taking, imaging and physical examination procedures;Upper limb and cervical spine musculoskeletal disorders and their implications for physiotherapy assessment and management;The implications of signs and symptoms to the assessment and management of clients with disorders of the upper limb, thoracic and cervical spine;Appropriate application … For more content click the Read More button below.

Theoretical principles of musculoskeletal management;
Specific musculoskeletal history taking, imaging and physical examination procedures;
Upper limb and cervical spine musculoskeletal disorders and their implications for physiotherapy assessment and management;
The implications of signs and symptoms to the assessment and management of clients with disorders of the upper limb, thoracic and cervical spine;
Appropriate application of physiotherapy skills (including splinting) in the management of upper limb and cervical spine musculoskeletal disorders;
Outcome measures relevant to musculoskeletal physiotherapy management;
Evidence-based practice in musculoskeletal physiotherapy;
Theories of pain management relevant to musculoskeletal physiotherapy; and
Professional and ethical behaviour in the context of musculoskeletal physiotherapy practice.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to plan and apply a range of physiotherapy assessment and evaluation techniques using tests, imaging, tools and outcome measures relevant to the upper limb, thoracic and cervical spine;

be able to demonstrate and articulate sound clinical reasoning processes which explore, explain and analyse assessment findings;

be able to plan and implement safe and effective physiotherapy management for disorders of the upper limb, thoracic and cervical spine;

be able to justify situations in which physiotherapy management is no longer required and cease physiotherapy or refer to another practitioner;

be able to locate, evaluate and use evidence-based information to inform decision making and develop and guide their own knowledge, learning and practice;

be able to make and act on informed and appropriate decisions about acceptable professional and ethical behaviours;

be able to communicate effectively to involve the client and relevant others in the planning and implementation of musculoskeletal physiotherapy practice;

be able to critically analyse resources, synthesise the information and communicate effectively according to the context and audience;

be able to reflect on professional practice to determine the actions they need to undertake to continually improve; to recognise situations outside their competence; and to take timely and appropriate actions; and

10.

be able to apply evidence-based, person-centred self-management strategies for pain that promote a person's general well-being.

Enrolment restrictions

Restricted to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Physiotherapy and Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours).

Pre-requisite