This module offers an introduction to a range of interventions available to the physiotherapist for assessing, treating, educating, supporting and caring for patients and their supporters.
Students will develop a portfolio of practical and educational skills, which they are able to carry out safely and effectively, demonstrating a professional and patient-centred approach. These will form a foundation which will be further developed in subsequent modules and practice placement. Critical evaluation of the evidence underpinning interventions will be considered as part of a developing skill in clinical reasoning and decision-making.
The module explores approaches to patient assessment and contemporary methods of documentation underpinned by effective communication as a universal tool. It will also explore interventions such as massage and soft tissue techniques, manual therapy techniques, electrophysical modalities, analysis of functional movement and techniques to facilitate it, and therapeutic use of physical activity and exercise. The use of techniques, and how they may be adapted to suit individual need, will be considered including approaches designed to support prevention, lifestyle change and self-management within a range of specialist populations.
By the end of the module students should be able to:
- Understand and demonstrate awareness of the psycho-social and professional aspects of assessment and delivery of physiotherapy therapeutic interventions
- Justify the physiological basis, application and demonstration of safe and effective practice of manual therapy techniques
- Critically analyse and differentiate between different types of exercise and physical activity and apply them to suit individual needs including cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation
- Argue the place of electrophysical modalities in the management of holistic care and demonstrate examples of common applications
- Analyse requirement for efficient gait and adjustments which may be required when using mechanical aids
- Critically appraise and contrast the effectiveness of different physiotherapy interventions and the physiological effects
Module Attendance Required
- Osce-based practical exam (50% weighting)
- Seminar presentation (50% weighting)
Academics involved in the delivery of this module
Mr Nick Bent