513-302 Neurological Physiotherapy I

Credit Points

HECS Band

Coordinator

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

This subject introduces physiotherapy assessment, treatment and pharmalogical management of common adult and paediatric neurological and neurosurgical conditions. It explores how normal activities may be impaired by neurological dysfunction. Students will practice assessment skills on individuals with neurological deficits and use their findings to establish problem lists and apply appropriate treatment skills at a rudimentary level. The principles of problem-solving, goal setting and outcome measurement will be emphasised to enable development/modification of basic patient management plans. The theoretical component of the course introduces basic assessment including observational analysis and specific impairment and disability evaluation. Selected physiotherapy management for neurological dysfunction including theories of motor control, motor learning and facilitation are introduced. Students will develop handling skills, with emphasis on safety and effectiveness, and further their understanding of normal movement. The clinical component of the course integrates theoretical knowledge with clinical reasoning and practical application skills.

Assessment

Clinical: continuous clinical assessment (40%), clinical exam (10%). Theory: case presentation (5%), written exams (45%). Semester 1 (2-hour) written exam (20%), Semester 2 (2-hour) hour written exam (25%). Students must pass both clinical and theoretical components of the assessment in order to pass the subject.

Prescribed Texts

• J Carr and R Shepherd, Neurological Rehabilitation: Optimizing Motor Performance. Butterworh Heinemann, 1998.