Course Description / Curriculum

 Human Physiology I

Human Physiology I is an essential foundational course for undergraduate physiotherapy students, providing an in-depth understanding of the normal physiological processes that govern human body function. This course explores the mechanisms behind key physiological systems and their relevance to physiotherapy practice, emphasizing how these systems interact and maintain homeostasis in health and disease.Students will study the physiology of the cardiovascular, respiratory, and musculoskeletal systems, as well as the neurological and endocrine systems, with a focus on their roles in movement, physical performance, and rehabilitation. Key topics include:

Cellular physiology, homeostasis, and the physiological basis of health

1. The cardiovascular system: heart function, blood circulation, and blood pressure regulation
2. The respiratory system: gas exchange, lung mechanics, and respiratory control
3. Musculoskeletal physiology: muscle contraction, biomechanics, and movement
4. Neurological control of movement, reflexes, and motor pathways
5. The role of hormones in physiological regulation and adaptation to exercise

Through lectures, case studies, and interactive learning, students will develop a solid understanding of how the body functions in both health and disease, providing the essential knowledge needed for effective clinical practice in physiotherapy. This course is crucial for understanding the physiological basis of therapeutic interventions and the body’s response to rehabilitation.

 Human Physiology II

Human Physiology II is a continuation of Human Physiology I, designed for undergraduate physiotherapy students to deepen their understanding of advanced physiological processes in the human body. This course focuses on the physiological functions of the renal, digestive, immune, and reproductive systems, as well as how these systems interact to maintain homeostasis and support physical activity, recovery, and rehabilitation.

Students will examine how disturbances in these physiological systems can impact movement, function, and rehabilitation outcomes, providing the foundational knowledge needed to understand complex patient conditions. Key topics include:

1. The renal system: fluid and electrolyte balance, kidney function, and acid-base regulation
2. The digestive system: digestion, absorption, and metabolic processes
3. The immune system: immune response, inflammation, and its role in healing and injury recovery
4. The reproductive system: hormonal regulation and its influence on health and physical function
5. Integration of body systems during exercise, stress response, and recovery
6. Physiological adaptations to exercise and physical rehabilitation

Through lectures, case-based learning, and practical applications, students will explore the dynamic processes of human physiology with a focus on their relevance to physiotherapy practice, especially in patient care, rehabilitation, and recovery. This course will provide essential knowledge for understanding how the body’s systems work together to optimize physical performance and healing.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Human Physiology I or equivalent foundational courses.

 Clinical Practice I

Clinical Practice I is a hands-on course designed to introduce undergraduate physiotherapy students to real-world clinical environments, providing the foundational skills necessary for effective patient assessment, treatment planning, and rehabilitation. This course emphasizes the development of clinical reasoning, communication, and professional behaviors as students begin to interact with patients under the supervision of experienced physiotherapists.

Students will apply theoretical knowledge acquired in previous courses to a variety of clinical settings, including musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiopulmonary conditions. Key areas of focus include:

1. Conducting comprehensive patient assessments and history taking
2. Developing and implementing evidence-based treatment plans
3. Utilizing physical therapy modalities and techniques effectively
4. Managing patient progress and adapting treatment plans accordingly
5. Understanding ethical and legal responsibilities in clinical practice
6. Enhancing communication with patients, families, and healthcare teams

Through direct patient care, observation, and structured feedback, students will gain essential skills in clinical practice, setting a solid foundation for advanced learning in subsequent clinical placements. This course fosters a patient-centered approach, preparing students to be confident and competent physiotherapists.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of foundational courses in anatomy, physiology, pathology, and basic physiotherapy techniques.

 Cardiopulmonary Physiotherapy

This course provides undergraduate students with a comprehensive understanding of cardiopulmonary physiotherapy, focusing on the assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients with cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. Students will learn the underlying pathophysiology of common cardiopulmonary diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, heart failure, myocardial infarction, and pulmonary fibrosis.

Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, the course will explore the role of physiotherapy in optimizing lung and heart function, improving exercise tolerance, and promoting patient recovery. Students will develop proficiency in performing cardiopulmonary assessments, such as auscultation, lung function testing, and functional capacity evaluations. They will also gain hands-on experience in designing and implementing individualized therapeutic interventions, including breathing exercises, chest physiotherapy, cardiovascular conditioning, and postural drainage techniques.

Emphasis will be placed on evidence-based approaches, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centered care. Students will also explore emerging trends and advanced modalities in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, including the use of technology and innovative treatment strategies.

By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the essential knowledge and practical skills to effectively manage and rehabilitate patients with cardiopulmonary disorders, fostering improved health outcomes and quality of life.

 Prosthetics & Orthotics

This course provides a basic understanding of orthosis and prosthesis, covering their definitions, functions, and indications, and exploring their roles in rehabilitation and patient care. Students will learn about the classification and types of orthoses and prostheses, with a focus on the physiotherapist’s interventions and responsibilities in their use. The course also addresses common challenges related to the design, fitting, and patient comfort of these devices, while exploring potential solutions. Finally, students will examine the features of ideal orthotics and prosthetics, emphasizing their effectiveness and the importance of patient-centered care.

 Research Methodology

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of research design, including populations, sampling techniques, and the development of effective data collection methods, such as using questionnaires. Students will learn how to formulate and test hypotheses, and apply probability distributions, descriptive, and inferential statistics. The course also covers common parametric and non-parametric statistical tests for data analysis. Additionally, students will be guided on how to write research proposals, prepare seminar presentations, and use proper citation and referencing styles, equipping them with essential skills for conducting and presenting research in the health sciences field.

Physiotherapy in Surgical Conditions

This course provides students with an in-depth understanding of common surgical conditions, including their indications and surgical procedures that require physiotherapy intervention. Students will learn the principles of preoperative and postoperative care and rehabilitation of joint surgeries such as total hip and knee replacement; spinal surgeries such as discectomy, laminectomy, lumbar fusion; soft tissue surgeries such as rotator cuff repair, and tendon repair; amputation; closed and open reduction for fractures; and cardiothoracic surgeries such as CABG, and lobectomy/pneumonectomy, while developing the necessary skills to assess and treat surgical patients throughout the rehabilitation process. Additionally, the course emphasizes the creation of individualized rehabilitation plans tailored to different surgical conditions, ensuring students are well-prepared to provide effective care in clinical settings.

Clinical Practice II

Clinical Practice II is a progressive course designed for undergraduate physiotherapy students, building upon the skills and knowledge acquired in Clinical Practice I. This course provides students with further opportunities to engage in direct patient care, refine clinical decision-making, and develop advanced rehabilitation techniques under the supervision of experienced clinicians. Students will apply more complex physiotherapy interventions and treatment modalities in a variety of clinical settings, including musculoskeletal, neurological, pediatric, and geriatric populations.

Key areas of focus include:

1. Advanced patient assessment techniques and differential diagnosis
2. Designing and executing individualized treatment plans for diverse conditions
3. Integrating evidence-based practice into clinical decision-making
4. Implementing therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and modality-based interventions
5. Managing complex cases and multi-disciplinary team collaboration
6. Enhancing patient education, motivation, and communication strategies
7. Addressing ethical considerations and professional conduct in the clinical environment

Through direct involvement in patient care, clinical reflection, and constructive feedback, students will enhance their practical skills, clinical judgment, and therapeutic approaches. This course aims to prepare students for more independent practice, ensuring they are capable of delivering high-quality physiotherapy care across diverse patient populations.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Clinical Practice I and foundational physiotherapy courses.

Clinical Internship Program

The Clinical Internship is a capstone course designed to provide undergraduate physiotherapy students with an immersive, hands-on experience in real-world clinical settings. This course allows students to integrate and apply all the theoretical knowledge and clinical skills they have developed throughout their program. Under the mentorship and supervision of licensed physiotherapists, students will work with a diverse range of patients across various specialties, including musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiopulmonary, pediatric, and geriatric care.

Key areas of focus include:

1. Comprehensive patient assessment and management across multiple conditions
2. Development and execution of individualized, evidence-based treatment plans
3. Advanced therapeutic techniques, manual therapy, exercise prescription, and modalities
4. Clinical decision-making, critical thinking, and problem-solving in complex patient cases
5. Effective communication with patients, families, and multidisciplinary healthcare teams
6. Professionalism, ethical practice, and legal responsibilities in a clinical environment
7. Self-reflection and continuous learning through feedback and supervision

Throughout the internship, students will progressively take on more responsibility for patient care, with the goal of building their confidence and competence in delivering safe, effective, and compassionate physiotherapy services. This course is designed to prepare students for independent practice as they transition from an academic setting to a professional healthcare environment.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of all previous coursework and clinical practice courses.

Pharmacology II

Pharmacology II is an advanced course designed for undergraduate physiotherapy students to deepen their understanding of pharmacological principles, with a specific focus on drugs and therapeutic agents that impact rehabilitation outcomes in more complex and specialized clinical scenarios. Building on the foundation laid in Pharmacology I, this course delves into the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of medications commonly used in the management of chronic conditions, neurological disorders, musculoskeletal injuries, and cardiopulmonary diseases.

The course will cover a range of drug classes, including neuropharmacological agents (e.g., anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and anti-Parkinson drugs), cardiovascular drugs (e.g., antihypertensives, diuretics, and anticoagulants), respiratory medications (e.g., bronchodilators, corticosteroids), and advanced pain management strategies (e.g., opioids, local anesthetics, and adjuvant analgesics). Students will explore the physiological mechanisms of action of these drugs, their therapeutic effects, potential adverse reactions, and their implications for physiotherapy practice.

Through a combination of lectures, case studies, and interactive discussions, students will gain practical knowledge on how to manage drug-related challenges in physiotherapy settings, including assessing medication interactions, recognizing side effects that may affect physical rehabilitation, and tailoring physiotherapy interventions to accommodate patients’ pharmacological regimens.

Special emphasis will be placed on understanding the pharmacological management of complex, multi-system conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and chronic pain, ensuring students are equipped to collaborate effectively with the broader healthcare team. By the end of the course, students will be able to critically analyze and integrate pharmacological considerations into their clinical decision-making, enhancing patient safety and improving therapeutic outcomes.