Overview

Learning outcomes/objectives

The student should be able to:

• Explore and discuss factors that contribute to deterioration in muscle structure and function
• Develop a conceptual understanding of a variety of methods that can be used to prevent deterioration in, and/or improve muscle function
• Evaluate appropriate technology/assistive devices used in the rehabilitation of patients with neuromuscular/neurological conditions
• Critically evaluate specified commonly used outcome measures within the context of the ICF classification

Module session dates

Please email sahp.postgraduate-admin@keele.ac.uk for the confirmed course dates.

Deadline for applications is 2 weeks prior to module start date.  Applying before this is recommended as spaces are awarded on a first come first served basis (assuming conditions of offers are met). 

Module aims

To critically evaluate:

• The pathophysiological basis of common neuromuscular impairments in upper motor neurone conditions commonly encountered during rehabilitation
• Current practice associated with the applications of technology for neuromuscular and neurological rehabilitation
• Psychometric properties of relevant outcome measures within the context of implementing evidence based practice

Entry requirements

The course is aimed at therapists, doctors, clinical scientists, biomedical engineers, and other health care professionals.

For this module the candidates should normally have a first or second class honours degree in a relevant subject and/or a recognised professional qualification.

Module content

Pathophysiological basis of common impairments in upper motor neurone problems (e.g. paralysis, weakness and fatigue, contractures and spasticity, motor performance).

The role of assistive technologies in the neurological/neuromuscular rehabilitation of muscle structure and function, and optimization of functional performance: Exercise prescription; Therapeutic electrical stimulation; Partial body weight supported exercise; Orthotics in neurological rehabilitation (splinting - static and progressive stretching, casting, and orthotic tuning); Application of technology for the retrain of movement (robotics, virtual reality, targeted motor control, functional electrical stimulation); Critical evaluation of common outcome measures that can be used to assess efficacy of assistive technology (e.g. video based gait analysis, ultrasound for muscle imaging, joint stiffness measurement, and measurement of activity and participation).

Teaching and assessment

Teaching

Block sessions: Lectures, seminars, discussions, and workshops. The student is expected to complete at least double the amount of self directed study.

Assessment

Student choice: Either

Written 4,000 word essay, relating to modular content, in which the student identifies an assistive technology, and evaluates its clinical applicability in relation to maximizing functional potential (with reference to the evidence base)

OR

45 minutes oral presentation of the same to include questions