640-100 Physics (Physiotherapy)

Coordinator

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

An understanding of physics is essential in describing many biological processes and to the development of modern medical diagnostic and therapeutic techniques. This one semester course is specifically designed to give physiotherapy students an understanding and appreciation of the physics required for their discipline. Specifically this subject aims to provide a knowledge of:

• mechanics needed for kinesiology, biomechanics and physiology.
• properties of materials needed to understand hard, soft and fluid tissues of the body.
• systems analysis needed to understand stability, homeostasis and proprioception.
• thermal physics to understand temperature, heat load and heat transfer.
• the behaviour of gases required for aspects of respiration.
• acoustics: sound and waves needed for diathermy and ultrasound imaging.
• optics, properties of light needed to understand the eye and microscopes.
• electromagnetism needed for electrotherapy, and the physiology of nerves and muscles.
• modern physics for laser and radiation therapies, X-rays, radiation safety, and internal imaging.

As part of this course, students will also develop skills in analysing and solving physical and other quantitative problems.

Assessment

A 3-hour written examination at the end of semester, plus written assignments during the semester. Students must satisfactorily complete assignment work as specified at the start of semester.

Prescribed Texts

• Kane J W and Sternheim M M, Physics. 3rd ed. Wiley.