Podiatric Paediatrics and Orthomechanics

Abstract

This subject provides students with a detailed understanding of the human developmental process, from conception to maturity. Students will study a range of paediatric conditions that podiatrists can assess, evaluate and manage as part of a holistic client centred approach to health. Students will be provided with the opportunity to further develop communication skills and team work skills through collaborative group work. Additionally, this subject enables students to apply their knowledge of biomechanical principles associated with human movement, to a range of orthomechanical management strategies for clients of all ages.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics: Communication skills - presenting information to clients, care-givers and health professionals;Paediatric assessment;Recognising child abuse;Responsibility for mandatory reporting;Paediatric conditions - viral illness;Developmental disorders;Neurological disorders;Genetic conditions;Paediatric lower limb conditions;Joint pain in children;Diagnosis of a child who limps;Sports injuries;Material science;Introduction to padding and strapping of the … For more content click the Read More button below.

This subject will cover the following topics:

Communication skills - presenting information to clients, care-givers and health professionals;
Paediatric assessment;
Recognising child abuse;
Responsibility for mandatory reporting;
Paediatric conditions - viral illness;
Developmental disorders;
Neurological disorders;
Genetic conditions;
Paediatric lower limb conditions;
Joint pain in children;
Diagnosis of a child who limps;
Sports injuries;
Material science;
Introduction to padding and strapping of the foot and ankle;
Foot and ankle casting and cast evaluation;
Electronic scanning for foot casting and CAD/ CAM orthotic manufacture;
Biomechanical assessment; orthotic prescription and management plans; and
Footwear modification.

Assessment items

1. Paediatric health promotion

2. Paediatric health promotion

3. Orthomechanics task

4. Case-based exam

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

apply knowledge of normal physical, cognitive, social and emotional development - from conception to maturity - to a range of diagnostic scenarios;

assess, diagnose and manage a range of paediatric conditions that may present in podiatric practice;

analyse the legal and ethical considerations relevant to podiatric practice including their role as a mandatory reporter;

apply knowledge of the therapeutic modalities used in biomechanical case management including: theories of orthotic therapy; non-casting and casting techniques; splinting; footwear prescription; and adjunctive physical therapies to develop appropriate management plans for their clients; and

demonstrate effective communication skills for holistic client centred health management.

Enrolment restrictions

Restricted to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Podiatric Medicine.

Pre-requisite