Outline

Overview

This unit of study will include three modules: advanced musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiopulmonary modules incorporating advanced clinical reasoning addressing complex patient-centred healthcare. The modules will enable students to develop their skills in analysing and planning management of patients with complex musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiopulmonary problems. The musculoskeletal module will include advanced manual therapy assessment and treatment including high velocity manipulative techniques. The neurological module will focus on management of spinal cord injuries. Students are required to source and integrate material from core areas of musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, and neurological physiotherapy as well as background sciences. Specific emphasis will be placed on fostering development of independent and eLearning skills as well as development of critical analysis skills to improve healthcare provision. Students will be expected to evaluate the scientific basis and ethical, legal and practical implications of physiotherapy interventions within the context of interprofessional team care and global health priorities.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Movement Sciences
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	PHTY5206 and PHTY5197 and PHTY5201
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Tiffany Dwyer, tiffany.dwyer@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam	Musculoskeletal and neurological assessment Short answer and MCQ	55%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Practical test	Musculoskeletal practical exam and viva Assessment of clinical problem solving and use of advanced musculoskeletal clinical skills	20%	Week 10	15 minutes (oral)	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Cardiopulmonary assessment Paired extended response based on a case study	25%	Week 12 Due date: 24 May 2026 at 23:59	Wk12 Wed 08:00 to Wk12 Sun 23:59	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= group assignment ?

Assessment summary

Musculoskeletal practical exam and viva: Students must demonstrate performance of selected practical techniques.
Cardiopulmonary assessment: Students will work in pairs to submit an assignment on-line addressing a question related to whether they will perform an intervention for a complex case. Literature will also be used to justify the decision made.
Musculoskeletal and neurological assessment: Written exam

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

Important Note: In order to successfully pass this unit of study, students must have a total grade of at least 50 marks AND score at least 50% in the musculoskeletal physiotherapy module. If students fail the unit of study only because they did not score at least 50% in the musculoskeletal physiotherapy module, they will be offered a supplementary assessment for any assessment item in this module that was originally a failed grade.

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.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

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 University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

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.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 02	Musculoskeletal: 1. Introduction to PHTY5208 and consent in spinal manipulation; 2. Spinal manipulation- Indications, contra-indications; 3. Spinal manipulation- Effects; 4. Manipulation- Case series and clinical reasoning	Lecture (4 hr)
Week 02	Musculoskeletal: 1. Triage and screening for manual therapy including manipulation. Review PPIVMS Lumbar spine; 2. Lumbar spine clinical reasoning in manual therapy and incorporation of exercise	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 03	Musculoskeletal: 5. An integrated approach to manual therapy, exercise selection; 6. Progression of exercise and manual therapy over the course of treatment	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 03	Musculoskeletal: 3. Thoracic spine PPIVM and screw manipulation; 4. Thoracic spine clinical reasoning in manual therapy and incorporation of exercise	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 05	Musculoskeletal: 7. Incorporating MDT into musculoskeletal practice- Part 1; 8. Incorporating MDT into musculoskeletal practice- Part 2	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 05	Musculoskeletal: 5. Incorporating MDT into musculoskeletal practice; 6. Clinical Reasoning using complex cases	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 06	Musculoskeletal: 9. Differential diagnosis of headache; 10. Management of headache; 11. Headache case study	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 07	Musculoskeletal: 12. Complex case- Lumbar spine and hip pain; 13. Complex case- Cervical spine and upper limb pain	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 07	Musculoskeletal: 7+8. Incorporation of cervical spine clinical skills into practice	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 08	Neurological: 1+2. Physiotherapy management of people with SCI- Parts 1+2	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 08	Musculoskeletal: 14. Assessment of dizziness; 15. Management of dizziness; 16. Complex cervical spine case- Dizziness	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 09	Neurological: 3+4. Physiotherapy management of people with SCI- Parts 3+4	Lecture (2 hr)
	Musculoskeletal: 17. MSK masterclass- Part 1; 18. MSK masterclass- Part 2	Lecture (2 hr)
	Musculoskeletal: 9+10. Clinical skills review and practice- Lumbar, thoracic and cervical spine assessment and manual therapy	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 10	Neurological: 5+6. Physiotherapy management of people with SCI- Parts 5+6	Lecture (2 hr)
	Cardiopulmonary: 1. Case study analysis; 2. Analysis of gas (oxygen) movement problems in the case study; 3. V/Q matching	Lecture (2 hr)
	Cardiopulmonary: 1. Evidence-based physiotherapy interventions to improve gas (oxygen) movement problems	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 11	Neurological: 7+8. Secondary impairments in SCI- Risk assessment, prevention and management	Lecture (2 hr)
	Cardiopulmonary: 4. Analysis of secretion movement, gas movement (CO2), and respiratory load in the case study	Lecture (2 hr)
	Cardiopulmonary: 2. Evidence-based physiotherapy interventions to improve secretion movement problems	Tutorial (2 hr)
	Neurological: 1. Identifying optimal outcomes for, and analysing transfers in, individuals with complete SCI	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 12	Neurological: 9+10. Evidence based practice-SCI case study, inpatient management	Lecture (2 hr)
	Cardiopulmonary: 5. Exercise prescription for bronchiectasis; 6. Alternate models of delivery of care in chronic respiratory diseases	Lecture (2 hr)
	Cardiopulmonary: 3. Clinical decision-making for the case study	Tutorial (2 hr)
	Neurological: 2. Training supine to long sitting and wheelchair to bed transfers (SCI)	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 13	Neurological: 11. Living with SCI- Guest speaker; 12. Evidence based practice- SCI case study, discharge planning/NDIS	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 13	Neurological: 3. Training wheelchair transfers and wheelchair mobility (SCI)	Tutorial (2 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance: Students are expected to attend a minimum of 80% of tutorials for a unit of study unless granted exemption by the dean, head of school, or professor most concerned. The dean, head of school, or professor most concerned may determine that a student fails a unit of study because of inadequate tutorial attendance. Alternatively, at their discretion, they may set additional assessment items where attendance is lower than 80%. Students are expected to attend all lectures in this unit of study. Lecture recordings will be made available where possible to assist with revision and study but should not be considered a substitute for physically attending the lecture.

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

Recommended textbook for neurological module:

Harvey L (2008) Management of Spinal Cord Injuries. Edinburgh; New York: Butterworth-Heinemann.

Recommended reading for Musculoskeletal module

Maitland GD, Hengeveld E, Banks K, English K. Maitland’s Vertebral Manipulation. Seventh Edition. London: Elsevier 2005.
Monaghan M. Spinal Manipulation- A manual for physiotherapists. The Copy Press Ltd, Nelson, New Zealand. 2001.
Jull G, Sterling M, Falla D, Treleaven J, O’Leary S. Whiplash Headache and neck pain, research directions for physical therapists. © 2008 Elsevier.

Learning outcomes

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. Safely and competently perform advanced manual therapy techniques including selected high velocity manipulation procedures.
LO2. Demonstrate advanced clinical reasoning for patients with complex problems by being able to: a. analyse the nature of the patient’s problems and the pathological mechanisms proposed for the problems. b. discuss and evaluate the effects of interactions between the pathological mechanisms and predict likely consequences c. propose intervention(s) for the patient’s problems. d. discuss the theoretical rationale(s) for intervention(s) and evaluate evidence for their effectiveness. e. identify how interventions would need to be modified in light of the patient’s multisystem problems and provide rationale for the modification(s). f. discuss how and when effects of intervention would be evaluated, the rationale underlying the evaluation and how results of evaluation might then modify intervention. g. identify and justify other health care services to which the patient should be referred.

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
Learning outcomes

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes	Competency standards
	Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - 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 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
	Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - 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 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 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.D. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice across acute, rehabilitation and community practice in a range of environments and settings 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

Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements -

Competency code	Taught, Practiced or Assessed	Competency standard
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
2.1		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
3.1		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
4.1		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
4.5		recognise situations that are outside their scope of expertise or competence and take appropriate and timely action
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
6.1		use education to empower themselves and provide knowledge to themselves and others.
7.1		organise and prioritise their workload and resources to provide safe, effective and efficient physiotherapy autonomously and, where relevant, as a team member
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.D		knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice across acute, rehabilitation and community practice in a range of environments and settings
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

Responding to student feedback

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

In general the students liked the practical classes and interactive case study lectures to explore and consolidate clinical reasoning.

Additional information

Musculoskeletal Module

This unit of study aims to advance and consolidate students’ abilities to apply evidence-based practice to the assessment, differentiation, and management of various musculoskeletal conditions. Using a variety of case studies, students will study practical and theoretical aspects of musculoskeletal physiotherapy to encourage integration of selected manual therapy and exercise based interventions into the overall management of patients with complex problems. Students will be encouraged to consider the interaction between diagnosis and mechanisms of treatment effects.

Students will also be introduced to selected manipulative procedures for the spine and the use of such techniques in the overall management of mechanical pain in the spine. Other practical content includes upper cervical assessment and treatment techniques. Thus, students will practice and evaluate a range of strategies to decrease pain and impairments, and to improve function in patients with acute, sub-acute and chronic pain of musculoskeletal origin.

Work, health and safety

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

The demonstration and practice of spinal manipulation forms part of the musculoskeletal component of this unit of study.

Manipulation involves the application of a high velocity, low amplitude thrust to selected joints and tissues, and can be associated with an audible click. These techniques are thought to increase range of movement and decrease pain in patients complaining of symptoms of spinal origin. Therefore, the ability to perform these manipulative techniques is highly desirable for physiotherapists treating patients with musculoskeletal disorders. Participation in these manipulation sessions will equip you with a range of advanced skills that will be useful in providing effective treatment for patients with lumbar, thoracic spine and ankle disorders.

Complications following manipulation are rare but potentially serious. Estimates of incidence ranging from approximately 1 in 20,000 to 1 in 500,000 are frequently cited and most complications involve manipulation of the cervical spine. In this subject we will be performing manipulation to the thoracic and lumbar spine. If you have a medical condition which might exclude you from being manipulated, for example a history of neurological signs or symptoms, or significant back pain, you should discuss this with your tutor, and if necessary, seek appropriate medical advice.

You must complete the student screening questionnaire (available online in Canvas) prior to being the ‘patient’ for manipulation. Please complete this before your first musculoskeletal tutorial class.

Some students may experience discomfort following repeated manipulation. If this does not resolve within 24-48 hours you should contact your tutor. If you have more serious symptoms, please contact the tutor immediately or your family doctor as soon as possible.

Practice of manipulative techniques is essential. However, you are advised not to practice these techniques until they have been demonstrated in class. Furthermore, you are advised to only practice the application of the high velocity manipulative thrust on fellow students under your tutor’s supervision. All other aspects of examinable techniques can be performed without tutor supervision.

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

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

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

PHTY5208: Advanced Physiotherapy Practice

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links