Physiotherapy 3

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2009:

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 continues on from Physiotherapy 1 and 2. The major themes of communication skills, human movement and clinical practice continue. Concepts of health ethics, evidence-based physiotherapy practice; research methodology, clinical reasoning and decision making will be explored. Emphasis will be on human movement development across the life span and the development of safe, effective practice.

Content areas include regional and vertebral structure and function in normal and pathological states; introduction to cardiorespiratory physiotherapy assessment; theory and practice of assessment and management of soft tissue injuries and other pathologies. The rationale for the use of intervention ­strategies such as exercise and exercise prescription, electrotherapeutic equipment, soft tissue massage and facilitation of movement will be explored. Issues relating to the mechanisms of pain and its management will be discussed. Normal and pathological development of the child from birth to adolescence will be examined. Students will apply their theory and practice in clinical placements.

This course encompasses particular generic skills. Students should aim:

• to develop skills in practical thinking, clinical reasoning and clinical decision making
• to apply new research information to the solution of unfamiliar problems
• to develop skills working in small groups and developing team skills

Mid-semester tasks (5%), written assignments of not more than 1500 words and critical appraisal of scientific literature (10%); tutor assessment (10%); practical examinations and clinical skills examinations (35%); written examinations up to four hours (40%); and clinical attendance (hurdle requirement).

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.