Advanced Topics in Neurology

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2008:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

This subject will build on the material presented in 513-664 Anatomy for Neurological Physiotherapy and allows the student to develop an advanced level of skill in the management of neurologically impaired patients. Topics covered in the course will include neuropathology, current investigative, diagnostic and treatment approaches used in neurology and neurosurgery, and systematic physiotherapy assessment of the patient with neurological disabilities, including paediatric conditions and spinal cord injury. The neurophysiological, kinesiological, biomechanical and behavioural bases of facilitation and motor control models of treatment in neurological physiotherapy will be critically analysed and compared. Review of recent literature and case studies will provide a basis for examining the effectiveness of treatment approaches. Alternative methods for the evaluation of outcomes will be discussed, including functional rating scales, clinical assessment tools and application of research findings. The clinical practice component will enable the students to combine all these skills and knowledge to develop and apply effective treatment protocols for a variety of clinical conditions.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

Generic Skills:

On completion of the subject, students will be expected to be able to demonstrate:

• An advanced understanding of the changing knowledge base in neurology, and the international context and sensitivities of the area
• The ability to evaluate and synthesise research and professional literature and apply this information to clinical situations
• A capacity to articulate their knowledge and understanding in oral and written presentations at an academic level and at a level appropriate for individuals who deliver services or receive healthcare services
• Well-developed problem-solving abilities in both the clinical and the theoretical aspects of neurology

Specific Skills:

On completion of the subject, students will be expected to be able to demonstrate:

• Descriptions of recent advances in neuropathology, current investigative and diagnostic approaches used in neurology and neurosurgery.
• Opportunities to develop specialised assessment skills for the appraisal of patients with neurological disabilities, including paediatric conditions and spinal cord injuries.
• Discussion of current approaches for the treatment/management of stroke, spinal cord injury, Parkinson's disease, balance and vestibular disorders, acquired brain injury, chronic and degenerative neurological conditions, and paediatric neurological conditions.
• Opportunities to develop advanced treatment and handling skills for a variety of neurological conditions through clinical workshops.
• Opportunities to critically analyse and compare neurophysiological, kinesiological, biomechanical and behavioural bases of facilitation and motor control models of treatment.
• Opportunities to investigate alternative methods of evaluation of patient progress and outcome including functional rating scales, clinical assessment tools and application of research findings.