PHS314 Consolidation of Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Practice (8)

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.

Availability

Session 2 (60)
On Campus
Albury-Wodonga Campus
Orange Campus
Port Macquarie Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: PHS314. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Allied Health, Exercise and Sport Sciences

Enrolment Restrictions

This subject is restricted to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Physiotherapy and Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours).

Prerequisites

PHS313 and BMS271

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

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • 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.

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of PHS314 in Session 2 2021. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Journal club presentation
15
2
Practical exam
45
3
Theory exam (online)
40

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: May 2022. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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