Module: Musculosketal Physiotherapy

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Musculosketal Physiotherapy
Module Code	TRE1021
Faculty	Science & Health	School	Health & Human Performance
NFQ level	9	Credit Rating	15

Description

This module aims to equip students with the theoretical knowledge of applied anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology, clinical reasoning skills, and practical competencies required for safe and effective musculoskeletal physiotherapy practice. It focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, and management of common musculoskeletal, orthopaedic, and rheumatological conditions, integrating a biopsychosocial approach to patient care and fosters an understanding of the role of the wider multidisciplinary team. The module aligns with the CORU Standards of Proficiency for Physiotherapists and upholds the CORU Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics for Physiotherapists to ensure ethical and high-quality professional practice.

Learning Outcomes

1. Upon successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the aetiology, pathophysiology, clinical features and evidence based management of common musculoskeletal, orthopeadic and rheumatological conditions.
2. Upon successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: Discuss biopsychosocial approaches to patient management, including knowledge and understanding of the underlying physiology and biology of acute and chronic pain.
3. Upon successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: Demonstrate effective communication skills, to competently conduct a clinical interview, instruct and impart information to patients and carers in a professional manner.
4. Upon successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: Demonstrate competence and safety in selection and execution of practical musculoskeletal physiotherapy examination and treatment techniques.
5. Upon successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: Apply knowledge and skills for clinical judgement and decision making, to formulate, justify and implement treatment plans that are appropriate to the patient's needs, evidence informed and address the findings of the assessment process.
6. Upon successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: Understand the role of standardised, valid outcome measures in musculoskeletal physiotherapy practice and be able to select, justify and use a range of reliable outcome measures.
7. Upon successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: Recognise the scope and limits of physiotherapy practice, understand the role of the other members of the multidisciplinary team and recognise when further referral is needed.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Lecture	24	Interactive lectures
Clinical Skills/Practical Session	48	Practical workshops. Role-playing and motivational interviewing. MDT case conferences and care planning.
Case-Based Learning	12	Case-based discussions. Small-group problem-based learning (PBL). Clinical reasoning exercises using video vignettes. Guided reflection on case scenarios. Literature appraisal and evidence-based discussions.
Simulation/Interactive Workshops	12	Simulation training. MDT case conferences and care planning. Literature appraisal and evidence-based discussions.
Self Directed Learning	279	Developing critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and lifelong learning skills for evidence-based, patient-centered, and innovative physiotherapy practice.
Total Workload: 375

Section Breakdown
CRN	12230	Part of Term	Semester 1 & 2
Coursework	100%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	N
Resit Category	RC1	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Orla Deegan	Module Teacher

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Performance evaluation	The oral/practical exam assesses students' ability to apply clinical reasoning, evidence-based interventions, and practical physiotherapy techniques covered in semester 1. It evaluates assessment skills, manual handling skills, treatment planning, and professional communication, ensuring competence in safe, patient-centered care.	15%	n/a
In Class Test	This test will be 2 hours in length and will be held in the last week of semester 1. The written exam evaluates students' understanding of musculoskeletal pathophysiology, assessment, and evidence-based physiotherapy interventions covered in semester 1.	35%	n/a
Performance evaluation	The oral/practical exam assesses students' ability to apply clinical reasoning, evidence-based interventions, and practical physiotherapy techniques, covered in semester 2. It evaluates assessment skills, manual handling skills, treatment planning, and professional communication, ensuring competence in safe, patient-centered care.	15%	n/a
In Class Test	This test will be 2 hours in length and will be held in the last week of semester 2. The written exam evaluates students' understanding of musculoskeletal pathophysiology, assessment, and evidence-based physiotherapy interventions covered in semester 2.	35%	n/a

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	,
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

n/a
● Principles of Musculoskeletal Subjective and Physical Assessment ● Outcome measurement ● Clinical reasoning, differential diagnosis ● Musculoskeletal conditions ● Orthopaedic surgery ● Rheumatological diseases ● Manual therapy techniques ● Soft tissue techniques ● Therapeutic and functional exercise assessment, prescription and progression ● Assistive devices ● Pharmacology

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Petty, N. J., & Ryder, D: 2018, Musculoskeletal examination and assessment : a handbook for therapists., Elsevier,
Petty, N. J., & Kieran Barnard: 2018, Principles of musculoskeletal treatment and management : a handbook for therapists., Elsevier,
Magee, D: 2020, Orthopedic Physical Assessment., 7th ed, Elsevier,
Jones, M. A., & Rivett, D. A: 2018, Clinical Reasoning in Musculoskeletal Practice - E-Book., Elsevier,
5. Butler, D. S., & G Lorimer Moseley: 2013, Explain Pain. Noigroup Publications.,

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None