Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy A

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 extends the student's clinical reasoning skills and manual skills in examination and physiotherapy management of common conditions affecting the neuro-musculo-skeletal system. As part of this process students will explore selected mechanisms of injury and disease affecting the neuro-musculo-skeletal system, the resulting pathokinematics, and the anatomical rationale for clinical tests used in differential diagnosis.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

On completion of this subject, students will have developed the following generic skills:

• Critical thinking, problem-solving and analytical skills
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• An ability to apply evidence based knowledge and skills
• Appreciation of the importance of the team approach to problem solving

The objectives of the subject are to provide:

• A deeper understanding of the basic sciences and their integration with musculoskeletal physiotherapy clinical practice
• A sound theoretical knowledge and understanding of conditions affecting the neuro-musculo-skeletal system
• The anatomical rationale for the clinical tests used in differential diagnosis
• The ability to perform an appropriate subjective and physical examination, with development of suitable analytical skills to evaluate data obtained
• The ability to develop and implement a clinical management plan based on the interpretation of assessment findings
• The ability to monitor patient response to modify or progress treatment appropriately
• An awareness of the paramount importance of patient safety at all times
• Knowledge of the role of other health care professionals involved in patient care.