Skip to main content
Unit of study_

PHTY5204: Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy III

Semester 2, 2022 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

This unit of study, along with its companion unit PHTY5203 builds on competencies around professional identity, technical skills, communication and patient centered care that were acquired and demonstrated in the foundation musculoskeletal units. Students will develop competencies in clinical reasoning, problem-solving and critical thinking supported by the use of case studies that focus on assessment and management of commonly occurring musculoskeletal conditions of the cervical spine and upper limbs in a primary care setting. Students will use a framework for management of musculoskeletal conditions that is consistent with widely endorsed clinical practice guidelines and uses a pragmatic evidence-based approach to patient care. In-depth learning modules in this unit include principles of risk stratification, guideline-based management planning, and epidemiology

Unit details and rules

Unit code PHTY5204
Academic unit Movement Sciences
Credit points 6
Prohibitions
? 
None
Prerequisites
? 
PHTY5136 and PHTY5137
Corequisites
? 
PHTY5203
Assumed knowledge
? 

None

Available to study abroad and exchange students

Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator David Anderson, david.anderson1@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s) Justin Sullivan, justin.sullivan@sydney.edu.au
Debra Shirley, debra.shirley@sydney.edu.au
Tutor(s) Allan Fu, allan.fu@sydney.edu.au
Aimie Peek, aimie.peek@sydney.edu.au
Paula Beckenkamp, paula.beckenkamp@sydney.edu.au
Andrew Gamble, andrew.gamble@sydney.edu.au
Type Description Weight Due Length
Final exam (Record+) Type B final exam Written exam
Multiple choice, short and long answer questions
60% Formal exam period 2 hours
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
Skills-based evaluation Practical examination
Clinical skills assessment
20% Formal exam period 8 minutes + 8 minutes preparation time
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9
Skills-based evaluation Practical examination
Clinical skills assessment
20% Week 07 8 minutes + 8 minutes preparation time
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO9 LO8 LO7 LO6 LO4 LO3
Type B final exam = Type B final exam ?

Assessment summary

Practical exams: Students will demonstrate selected assessment skills, manual therapy techniques and exercise prescription, along with clinical reasoning and communication skills. Students are required to play the role of a ‘patient’ for one of their peers.

Written exam: Students will answer a combination of multiple choice, short and long answer questions.

Further details on the two practical examination and on the written examination, along with marking rubrics, can be found on Canvas.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name

Mark range

Description

High distinction

85 - 100

 

Distinction

75 - 84

 

Credit

65 - 74

 

Pass

50 - 64

 

Fail

0 - 49

When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see sydney.edu.au/students/guide-to-grades.

For more information see guide to grades.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

  • Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
  • After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The Current Student website  provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. The University expects students and staff to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.  

We use similarity detection software to detect potential instances of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breach. If such matches indicate evidence of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breaches, your teacher is required to report your work for further investigation.

You may only use artificial intelligence and writing assistance tools in assessment tasks if you are permitted to by your unit coordinator, and if you do use them, you must also acknowledge this in your work, either in a footnote or an acknowledgement section.

Studiosity is permitted for postgraduate units unless otherwise indicated by the unit coordinator. The use of this service must be acknowledged in your submission.

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
- Practical exam feedback Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
Week 01 1. Introduction to MSIII 2. Introduction to neck pain Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4
1. Neck pain: History taking and physical examination Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4
Week 02 3. Cervical radiculopathy and myelopathy 4. Diagnosis of serious pathologies Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO10
2. Physical examination of neck pain (Focus: Neurological examination and management of cervical radiculopathy) Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
Week 03 5. Differential diagnosis, assessment and treatment of headache 6. Radiology of the cervical spine Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO10
3. Neck pain: Physical examination (Focus: Manual therapy part 1) Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
Week 04 7. Evidence based management of neck pain 8. Manual therapy as an intervention for neck pain Lecture (2 hr) LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO9
4. Neck pain: Physical examination (Focus: Manual therapy part 2) Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9
Week 05 9. Evidence based physiotherapy interventions for neck pain (part 1) 10. Evidence based physiotherapy interventions for neck pain (part 2) Lecture (2 hr) LO2 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
5. Neck pain: Physical examination and treatment (Focus: Motor control) Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9
Week 06 11. Putting it all together: neck pain assessment and intervention (Focus on non-specific neck pain) 12. Putting it all together: neck pain assessment and intervention (Focus on cervical radiculopathy) Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
6. Clinical case studies (Assessment and management of non-specific neck pain and cervical radiculopathy) - Practice, peer assessment and tutor feedback Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
Week 08 13. Introduction to upper limb disorders 14. Introduction to upper limb disorders: the shoulder Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
7. Introduction to physical examination of the shoulder complex Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 09 15. Shoulder pain: causes and triage 16. Shoulder pain: specific conditions Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
8. Physical examination and interventions of the shoulder complex (Focus: Rotator cuff pathologies and Impingement) Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
Week 10 17. Upper limb impairments: therapeutic exercises 18. Shoulder exercises Lecture (2 hr) LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
9. Physical examination and interventions of the shoulder complex (Focus: Adhesive capsulitis and Glenohumeral instability) Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
Week 11 19. Introduction to upper limb disorders: the elbow and distal arm 20. Elbow pain: causes and triage and specific conditions Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
10. Physical examination and interventions of the elbow Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
Week 12 21. Wrist pain: assessment and management 22. Upper limb conditions: exercise prescription and future directions Lecture (3 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
11. Physical examination and interventions of the wrist Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
Week 13 23. Putting it all together: shoulder pain assessment and intervention 24. Putting it all together: elbow and wrist pain assessment and intervention 25. Putting it all together: review of neck pain assessment and intervention (revision) Lecture (3 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
12. Clinical case studies (assessment and management of the shoulder, elbow and wrist) - Practice, peer assessment and tutor feedback Tutorial (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance Requirements

Students are expected to attend a minimum of 80% of tutorials for a unit of study, unless granted exemption by the Head of School, or Academic most concerned. The Head of School, or Academic most concerned may determine that a student cannot sit the final exam because of inadequate tutorial attendance. Alternatively, at their discretion, they may set additional assessment items where attendance is lower than 80%.

Lectures

Lectures engage students in specific topics, present key concepts and examples, and discuss how each topic fits into the overall unit of study. You are STRONGLY advised to listen to all lectures, and to complete the activities provided to increase or test your understanding of concepts. Material covered in lectures is examinable. Material discussed in the lectures or provided online is regarded as having been provided to all students in the unit. Lecture outlines, recording and/or power point slides will be available on Canvas.

Tutorials

Tutorials are a very important part of your learning experience. Your active preparation and participation in tutorials are essential for the successful completion of this unit. Tutorials are the time for you to discuss, ask questions and broaden your understanding about the latest lecture(s), and to develop the knowledge and skills required to achieve the intended learning outcomes and complete the assessment tasks for this unit. The teaching and learning processes in this unit emphasise learning in groups, as well as individually.

You will have been allocated a tutorial class time when you enrolled in this unit. It is very important that you attend your allocated class as we are unable to oversubscribe students to tutorial classes. Tutorial attendance is recorded. Swapping to alternate tutorials on one-off occasions is possible only by prior written agreement with the unit of study coordinator.

Appropriate attire for tutorial practical classes

When you are practicing examination and treatment techniques it may be necessary to expose the relevant parts of the body. You must, therefore, be prepared to undress to your underwear and/or bring brief shorts or other suitable clothing (e.g. swimwear/crop top) to your classes. Privacy screens are available.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

Essential reading

  • Brukner et al (2017). Brukner & Khan’s Clinical Sports Medicine: Injuries (Vol 1). 5th edn. McGraw-Hill. Available online through the University of Sydney library.
  • Articles and handouts that will be listed on Canvas and will be available online or at the library.

Students are expected to prepare for lectures and tutorials and consolidate their learning by reviewing material as detailed in the table on the LMS site of this unit of study.

Additional reading

You will need to supplement the required readings with further reading, especially when completing written assessments.  Key texts for Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy have been placed in the reserve section of the library. You should also search for material in relevant journals (both electronic and print). A list of key texts and recommended journals will be placed on the eLearning site.

  • Refshauge K and Gass E (2004). Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Clinical Science and Evidence-Based Practice. 2nd edn. Butterworth Heinemann.
  • Petty N and Rushton A (2011). Neuromusculoskeletal Examination and Assessment: A handbook for therapists. 4th edn. Churchill Livingstone. Available online through the University of Sydney library.
  • Petty N and Kieran B (2018) Principles of Neuromusculoskeletal Treatment and Management: A handbook for therapists. 3rd edn. Churchill Livingstone. Available online through the University of Sydney library.
  • Magee DJ and Derrick S (2010). Orthopaedic Physical Assessment Atlas and Video: Selected special tests and movements. Elsevier. Available online through the University of Sydney library.
  • Hengeveld E, Banks Sr and Banks K (2013). Maitland's Vertebral Manipulation: Management of neuromusculoskeletal disorders (Vol 1). Elsevier. Available online through the University of Sydney library.
  • Cleland J (2007). Orthopaedic Clinical Examination: An evidence-based approach for physical therapists. Saunders Elsevier.
  • Warth RJ and Millett PJ (2015). Physical Examination of the Shoulder: An evidence-based approach. 1st edn. Springer. Available online through the University of Sydney library.
  • Franklyn-Miller A. (2011). Clinical sports anatomy. 1st edn. McGraw-Hill.

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. Describe the risk factors, aetiology, pathological changes, signs and symptoms and prognosis of uncomplicated musculoskeletal conditions affecting the cervical spine and upper limb
  • LO2. Describe abnormal kinematics and kinesiology of the cervical spine and upper limb
  • LO3. Perform appropriate patient triage and screening for serious conditions related to the cervical spine and upper limb
  • LO4. Safely and effectively perform an assessment of a patient with cervical spine and/or upper limb conditions and interpret and evaluate the findings by applying sound clinical reasoning
  • LO5. Evaluate the diagnostic validity of common clinical tests used during examination
  • LO6. Select the most suitable therapeutic intervention
  • LO7. Safely and effectively apply (under direction) and evaluate treatment interventions appropriate for the impairments identified during the assessment
  • LO8. Apply principles of exercise prescription, including knowledge of biomechanics, to clinical cases
  • LO9. Demonstrate appropriate progression of intervention, with specific focus on exercise rehabilitation
  • LO10. Locate and interpret evidence for commonly used interventions for cervical spine and upper limb conditions

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1 Depth of disciplinary expertise

Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.

GQ2 Critical thinking and problem solving

Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.

GQ3 Oral and written communication

Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.

GQ4 Information and digital literacy

Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.

GQ5 Inventiveness

Generating novel ideas and solutions.

GQ6 Cultural competence

Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.

GQ7 Interdisciplinary effectiveness

Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.

GQ8 Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity

An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.

GQ9 Influence

Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes Graduate qualities
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes Competency standards
LO1
Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - APC
1. Physiotherapy practitioner
1.1. plan and implement an efficient, effective, culturally responsive and client-centred physiotherapy assessment
2. Professional and ethical practitioner
2.1. comply with legal, professional, ethical and other relevant standards, codes and guidelines
4. Reflective practitioner and self-directed learner
4.3. efficiently consume and effectively apply research and commit to practice informed by best available research evidence and new knowledge
4.5. recognise situations that are outside their scope of expertise or competence and take appropriate and timely action
8. Foundational abilities
8.A. knowledge of relevant anatomy, physiology, pathology, other biomedical sciences relevant to human health and function, and psychosocial and other determinants of health encompassing cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, neurological and other body systems within the context of physiotherapy and best available research evidence
8.B. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice including evidence-based practice
8.C. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice with clients across the lifespan, from birth to end of life care, who present with one or more problems such as pain and/or impairment or dysfunction contributing to impairment, activity limitations and participation restriction
LO2
Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - APC
1. Physiotherapy practitioner
1.1. plan and implement an efficient, effective, culturally responsive and client-centred physiotherapy assessment
3. Communicator
3.2. record and effectively communicate physiotherapy assessment findings, outcomes and decisions
4. Reflective practitioner and self-directed learner
4.3. efficiently consume and effectively apply research and commit to practice informed by best available research evidence and new knowledge
4.4. proactively apply principles of quality improvement and risk management to practice
8. Foundational abilities
8.A. knowledge of relevant anatomy, physiology, pathology, other biomedical sciences relevant to human health and function, and psychosocial and other determinants of health encompassing cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, neurological and other body systems within the context of physiotherapy and best available research evidence
8.B. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice including evidence-based practice
8.F. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice in health promotion and facilitation of client self-management strategies to enhance their health and well-being
LO3
Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - APC
1. Physiotherapy practitioner
1.1. plan and implement an efficient, effective, culturally responsive and client-centred physiotherapy assessment
1.3. review the continuation of physiotherapy and facilitate the client’s optimal participation in their everyday life
2. Professional and ethical practitioner
2.1. comply with legal, professional, ethical and other relevant standards, codes and guidelines
2.2. make and act on informed and appropriate decisions about acceptable professional and ethical behaviours
3. Communicator
3.1. use clear, accurate, sensitive and effective communication to support the development of trust and rapport in professional relationships with the client and relevant others
3.2. record and effectively communicate physiotherapy assessment findings, outcomes and decisions
4. Reflective practitioner and self-directed learner
4.3. efficiently consume and effectively apply research and commit to practice informed by best available research evidence and new knowledge
4.5. recognise situations that are outside their scope of expertise or competence and take appropriate and timely action
5. Collaborative practitioner
5.1. engage in an inclusive, collaborative, consultative, culturally responsive and client-centred model of practice
5.2. engage in safe, effective and collaborative interprofessional practice
8.A. knowledge of relevant anatomy, physiology, pathology, other biomedical sciences relevant to human health and function, and psychosocial and other determinants of health encompassing cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, neurological and other body systems within the context of physiotherapy and best available research evidence
8.B. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice including evidence-based practice
8.C. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice with clients across the lifespan, from birth to end of life care, who present with one or more problems such as pain and/or impairment or dysfunction contributing to impairment, activity limitations and participation restriction
8.E. competence to practise as a physiotherapist autonomously as well as a member of an interprofessional team in relevant clinical situations
LO4
Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - APC
1. Physiotherapy practitioner
1.1. plan and implement an efficient, effective, culturally responsive and client-centred physiotherapy assessment
1.2. involve the client and relevant others in the planning and implementation of safe and effective physiotherapy using evidence-based practice to inform decision-making
2. Professional and ethical practitioner
2.1. comply with legal, professional, ethical and other relevant standards, codes and guidelines
3. Communicator
3.1. use clear, accurate, sensitive and effective communication to support the development of trust and rapport in professional relationships with the client and relevant others
3.2. record and effectively communicate physiotherapy assessment findings, outcomes and decisions
4. Reflective practitioner and self-directed learner
4.1. assess their practice against relevant professional benchmarks and take action to continually improve their practice
4.2. evaluate their learning needs, engage in relevant continuing professional development and recognise when to seek professional support, including peer review
4.3. efficiently consume and effectively apply research and commit to practice informed by best available research evidence and new knowledge
4.5. recognise situations that are outside their scope of expertise or competence and take appropriate and timely action
5. Collaborative practitioner
5.1. engage in an inclusive, collaborative, consultative, culturally responsive and client-centred model of practice
8.A. knowledge of relevant anatomy, physiology, pathology, other biomedical sciences relevant to human health and function, and psychosocial and other determinants of health encompassing cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, neurological and other body systems within the context of physiotherapy and best available research evidence
8.B. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice including evidence-based practice
8.E. competence to practise as a physiotherapist autonomously as well as a member of an interprofessional team in relevant clinical situations
LO5
Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - APC
1. Physiotherapy practitioner
1.1. plan and implement an efficient, effective, culturally responsive and client-centred physiotherapy assessment
3. Communicator
3.2. record and effectively communicate physiotherapy assessment findings, outcomes and decisions
8.A. knowledge of relevant anatomy, physiology, pathology, other biomedical sciences relevant to human health and function, and psychosocial and other determinants of health encompassing cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, neurological and other body systems within the context of physiotherapy and best available research evidence
8.B. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice including evidence-based practice
LO6
Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - APC
1. Physiotherapy practitioner
1.2. involve the client and relevant others in the planning and implementation of safe and effective physiotherapy using evidence-based practice to inform decision-making
1.3. review the continuation of physiotherapy and facilitate the client’s optimal participation in their everyday life
2. Professional and ethical practitioner
2.1. comply with legal, professional, ethical and other relevant standards, codes and guidelines
3. Communicator
3.1. use clear, accurate, sensitive and effective communication to support the development of trust and rapport in professional relationships with the client and relevant others
3.2. record and effectively communicate physiotherapy assessment findings, outcomes and decisions
4. Reflective practitioner and self-directed learner
4.1. assess their practice against relevant professional benchmarks and take action to continually improve their practice
4.2. evaluate their learning needs, engage in relevant continuing professional development and recognise when to seek professional support, including peer review
4.3. efficiently consume and effectively apply research and commit to practice informed by best available research evidence and new knowledge
4.4. proactively apply principles of quality improvement and risk management to practice
4.5. recognise situations that are outside their scope of expertise or competence and take appropriate and timely action
5. Collaborative practitioner
5.1. engage in an inclusive, collaborative, consultative, culturally responsive and client-centred model of practice
5.2. engage in safe, effective and collaborative interprofessional practice
8. Foundational abilities
8.A. knowledge of relevant anatomy, physiology, pathology, other biomedical sciences relevant to human health and function, and psychosocial and other determinants of health encompassing cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, neurological and other body systems within the context of physiotherapy and best available research evidence
8.B. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice including evidence-based practice
8.E. competence to practise as a physiotherapist autonomously as well as a member of an interprofessional team in relevant clinical situations
8.F. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice in health promotion and facilitation of client self-management strategies to enhance their health and well-being
LO7
Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - APC
1. Physiotherapy practitioner
1.2. involve the client and relevant others in the planning and implementation of safe and effective physiotherapy using evidence-based practice to inform decision-making
1.3. review the continuation of physiotherapy and facilitate the client’s optimal participation in their everyday life
1.4. advocate for clients and their rights to health care
2. Professional and ethical practitioner
2.1. comply with legal, professional, ethical and other relevant standards, codes and guidelines
2.2. make and act on informed and appropriate decisions about acceptable professional and ethical behaviours
3. Communicator
3.1. use clear, accurate, sensitive and effective communication to support the development of trust and rapport in professional relationships with the client and relevant others
3.2. record and effectively communicate physiotherapy assessment findings, outcomes and decisions
4. Reflective practitioner and self-directed learner
4.1. assess their practice against relevant professional benchmarks and take action to continually improve their practice
4.3. efficiently consume and effectively apply research and commit to practice informed by best available research evidence and new knowledge
4.4. proactively apply principles of quality improvement and risk management to practice
4.5. recognise situations that are outside their scope of expertise or competence and take appropriate and timely action
5. Collaborative practitioner
5.1. engage in an inclusive, collaborative, consultative, culturally responsive and client-centred model of practice
8.A. knowledge of relevant anatomy, physiology, pathology, other biomedical sciences relevant to human health and function, and psychosocial and other determinants of health encompassing cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, neurological and other body systems within the context of physiotherapy and best available research evidence
8.B. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice including evidence-based practice
8.E. competence to practise as a physiotherapist autonomously as well as a member of an interprofessional team in relevant clinical situations
LO8
Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - APC
1. Physiotherapy practitioner
1.1. plan and implement an efficient, effective, culturally responsive and client-centred physiotherapy assessment
1.2. involve the client and relevant others in the planning and implementation of safe and effective physiotherapy using evidence-based practice to inform decision-making
1.3. review the continuation of physiotherapy and facilitate the client’s optimal participation in their everyday life
2. Professional and ethical practitioner
2.1. comply with legal, professional, ethical and other relevant standards, codes and guidelines
3. Communicator
3.1. use clear, accurate, sensitive and effective communication to support the development of trust and rapport in professional relationships with the client and relevant others
3.2. record and effectively communicate physiotherapy assessment findings, outcomes and decisions
4. Reflective practitioner and self-directed learner
4.1. assess their practice against relevant professional benchmarks and take action to continually improve their practice
4.2. evaluate their learning needs, engage in relevant continuing professional development and recognise when to seek professional support, including peer review
4.3. efficiently consume and effectively apply research and commit to practice informed by best available research evidence and new knowledge
4.4. proactively apply principles of quality improvement and risk management to practice
8.A. knowledge of relevant anatomy, physiology, pathology, other biomedical sciences relevant to human health and function, and psychosocial and other determinants of health encompassing cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, neurological and other body systems within the context of physiotherapy and best available research evidence
8.B. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice including evidence-based practice
8.F. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice in health promotion and facilitation of client self-management strategies to enhance their health and well-being
LO9
Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - APC
1. Physiotherapy practitioner
1.1. plan and implement an efficient, effective, culturally responsive and client-centred physiotherapy assessment
1.2. involve the client and relevant others in the planning and implementation of safe and effective physiotherapy using evidence-based practice to inform decision-making
1.3. review the continuation of physiotherapy and facilitate the client’s optimal participation in their everyday life
2. Professional and ethical practitioner
2.1. comply with legal, professional, ethical and other relevant standards, codes and guidelines
3. Communicator
3.1. use clear, accurate, sensitive and effective communication to support the development of trust and rapport in professional relationships with the client and relevant others
3.2. record and effectively communicate physiotherapy assessment findings, outcomes and decisions
4. Reflective practitioner and self-directed learner
4.1. assess their practice against relevant professional benchmarks and take action to continually improve their practice
4.4. proactively apply principles of quality improvement and risk management to practice
5. Collaborative practitioner
5.1. engage in an inclusive, collaborative, consultative, culturally responsive and client-centred model of practice
8.A. knowledge of relevant anatomy, physiology, pathology, other biomedical sciences relevant to human health and function, and psychosocial and other determinants of health encompassing cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, neurological and other body systems within the context of physiotherapy and best available research evidence
8.B. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice including evidence-based practice
8.F. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice in health promotion and facilitation of client self-management strategies to enhance their health and well-being
Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - APC
1. Physiotherapy practitioner
2. Professional and ethical practitioner
2.1. comply with legal, professional, ethical and other relevant standards, codes and guidelines
4. Reflective practitioner and self-directed learner
4.1. assess their practice against relevant professional benchmarks and take action to continually improve their practice
4.2. evaluate their learning needs, engage in relevant continuing professional development and recognise when to seek professional support, including peer review
4.3. efficiently consume and effectively apply research and commit to practice informed by best available research evidence and new knowledge
6. Educator
6.1. use education to empower themselves and provide knowledge to themselves and others.
8. Foundational abilities
8.B. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice including evidence-based practice
Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements -
Competency code Taught, Practiced or Assessed Competency standard
1.1 T P A plan and implement an efficient, effective, culturally responsive and client-centred physiotherapy assessment
3.2 T P A record and effectively communicate physiotherapy assessment findings, outcomes and decisions
4.1 T P A assess their practice against relevant professional benchmarks and take action to continually improve their practice
4.3 T P A efficiently consume and effectively apply research and commit to practice informed by best available research evidence and new knowledge
4.4 T P A proactively apply principles of quality improvement and risk management to practice
4.5 T P A recognise situations that are outside their scope of expertise or competence and take appropriate and timely action
5.1 T P A engage in an inclusive, collaborative, consultative, culturally responsive and client-centred model of practice
5.2 T P A engage in safe, effective and collaborative interprofessional practice
8.A T P A knowledge of relevant anatomy, physiology, pathology, other biomedical sciences relevant to human health and function, and psychosocial and other determinants of health encompassing cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, neurological and other body systems within the context of physiotherapy and best available research evidence
8.B T P A knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice including evidence-based practice
8.E T P A competence to practise as a physiotherapist autonomously as well as a member of an interprofessional team in relevant clinical situations
8.F T P A knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice in health promotion and facilitation of client self-management strategies to enhance their health and well-being

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

There were major changes to this unit the previous semester, which resulted in much improved USS scores. This semester there will be some minor changes, largely around learning resources and some features of tutorial structure

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.