Peripheral Anatomy and Foundations of Physiotherapy Practice takes a case based approach to introduce the core principles of physiotherapy practice and serves as the foundation for all subsequent physiotherapy modules. This module will increase from 12 to 15 credits to account for the student endeavour required to meet the learning outcomes and complete this module successfully. The increase in credits accounts for the breadth and depth required in the relevant peripheral anatomy and physiology content that accompanies each musculoskeletal or orthopaedic case. The BSc in Physiotherapy, with which the module is shared, contains specific Anatomy modules in year 1 of their programme, which are not in the MSc programme. Since the programme was originally designed, it has become evident that, as anatomy and physiology are not prerequisites for the MSc in Physiotherapy, and students previously completed a variety of academic degrees, they need to spend a significantly greater amount of time acquiring the level of anatomical knowledge needed, with more support than that reflected in the current credit allocation. This increase in credits also aligns to a subsequent 15 credit module Neuromusculoskeletal Cases module PR6010 that contains the spinal anatomy content in tandem with the more complex musculoskeletal and orthopaedic conditions and requires a similar amount of teaching and endeavour.

This module will introduce the core principles of physiotherapy practice and will serve as the foundation for all subsequent physiotherapy modules. In the module, students will be introduced to a broad range of basic physiotherapeutic skills needed for interventions applicable to musculoskeletal, orthopaedic and neurological problems. These include skills in observation, assessment, treatment, problem solving, and evaluation of practice in the physiotherapy management of clinical problems. The module will focus on the integration of theory with practice to ensure appropriate application of the management principles encountered. The integration of evidence based practice will be a strong theme running through all aspects of the module.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: 1. Explain the anatomy of the limbs and muscle function 2. Explain movement of the upper-limb and lower limbs (including gait). 3. Recognise how the principles of inflammation, healing and repair are applied to a range of musculoskeletal and orthopaedic conditions. 4. Apply, and evaluate the use of, cold and thermal modalities. 5. Apply the fundamental principles of therapeutic exercise to a range of musculoskeletal and orthopaedic conditions. 6. Synthesise information obtained during patient examination, and use this to set treatment goals. 7. Implement an evidence based approach to practice and evaluation of management strategies

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: 1. Display an awareness and differentiation of the role and scope of practice of the physiotherapist and members of the multi-disciplinary team in patient management. 2. Display an appreciation of professional communication and professional commitment to ethical practice within a healthcare team and to a patient population.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: 1. Perform a variety of physiotherapy skills, including passive movements, soft tissue massage, muscle strength testing. 2. Demonstrate how to safely use gait aids, cold and thermal modalities.

This module will use an experiential based learning model that centres on patient case studies. Each case study will entail aspects of body structures and functions, activity limitations and participation restrictions.