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About Study Course

Credit points / ECTS:5.33 / 8
Course supervisor:Māra Kuļša
Study type:Part time, Full time
Course level:Bachelor
Target audience:Medicine
Language:Latvian
Branch of science:Clinical Medicine; Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation

Objective

To provide students with knowledge and understanding of the basic principles of patient functional examination and therapy, the specifics of application thereof on specific body parts in accordance with the ICF.
To introduce students to the basic principles of manual medicine, to practically learn the basics of rhythmic mobilisation of peripheral joints, thoracic spine and ribs, lumbar spine and neck traction techniques.
To provide the student with basic knowledge of the basic principles and techniques of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, as well as practical skills in the facilitation of functional movements; to introduce the application of elastic sling (NEURAC) therapy.

Prerequisites

Normal anatomy, normal physiology, basics of physiotherapy: theory of motor control, kinesiology, movement and posture analysis, types of therapeutic exercises.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge

The student will know the basic principles and methods of the functional examination of patients, will be able to analyse and evaluate the examination findings, identify deviations and understand the patient’s functional problem, will know how to formulate therapy goals and draw up an appropriate therapy plan, will be able to choose the appropriate methods for the implementation of this plan. They will know the physiological basis, effect, indications of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF). Will demonstrate understanding of the elements of neuromuscular facilitation, movement stereotypes, techniques and application in patients with various functional disorders. Will acquire knowledge and will be able to justify the application of manual therapy techniques in the practice of a physiotherapist.

Skills

The student will demonstrate practical skills in examining the patient, collecting and analysing the obtained information, planning therapy, choosing and implementing appropriate physiotherapy techniques for patients with functional disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Will be able to practically evaluate therapy results. Will be able to apply the basic principles and techniques of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation in therapy. Will be able to perform the “joint play” examination and rhythmic mobilisation of all peripheral joints, manual traction of the cervical and lumbar spine.

Competence

The student will be able to examine patients with musculoskeletal system problems, evaluate the obtained results and, based on the specific problem, plan and implement treatment measures.

Study course planning

Planning period:Year 2025, Spring semester
Study programmeStudy semesterProgram levelStudy course categoryLecturersSchedule
Physiotherapy, RFFN4Bachelor’sRequiredMāra Kuļša
Physiotherapy, RFF4Bachelor’sRequiredMāra Kuļša