The first half of this module develops mobilisation techniques with particular regard to vertebral mobilisations. Knowledge will be applied in the safe selection and application of vertebral mobilisation techniques relevant to a sports therapy environment.

Electrotherapy, hydrotherapy and manual treatments will be thoroughly and critically investigated and the student will be able to select and apply appropriate modalities as part of a rehabilitation programme utilising an in-depth, critical knowledge of underlying principles.

The student will develop a critical understanding of the psychological and emotional responses to trauma and will understand psychological parameters associated with rehabilitation.

Common surgical and orthopaedic interventions will also be explained along with the implications for rehabilitation. Considerations when dealing with special populations and developing athletes will also be developed and investigated.

Students will be required to complete 3 pieces of summative assessment:

1. Written assignment (1000 words) on current research in the area of sports therapy (LO 1). 20%
2. Practical examination (semester 1) on vertebral mobilisations (LO2) 30%
3. Practical examination (semester 2) on sports therapy techniques (LO3), 30%
4. Critical reflection on professional practice (LO4), in light of current research around advanced sports therapy techniques and their effectiveness as part of a rehabilitation programme (LO4), 20%


All elements of assessment MUST be passed to achieve an overall pass on the module.

Additional Assessment Details (including formative feedback/ assessment)
Students will be continually provided with feedback during clinical/laboratory sessions. Independent learning activities will be set following lectures and clinical/laboratory sessions that will provide the opportunity for students to assess their own level of knowledge.

30 hrs of tutor led lectures
28 hrs of clinic / workshop time

Specify the number of independent study hours attributed to each type of activity (eg reading / assessment preparation). Total hours should equate to Independent Study Hours identified on page 1 of this form.

- 60 hrs tutor directed independent study following lectures
- 56 hrs tutor directed independent study following workshops
- 38 hrs exam preparation
- 50 hrs student led independent study
- 38 hrs practical examination preparation

Anderson, M. (2000). Fundamentals of sports injury management. (2nd ed.). London: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Bruckner, P., & Khan, K. (2008). Clinical sports medicine. (3rd ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.
Maffulli, N., Chan, K. M., McDonald, R., Malina, R. M., & Parker,T. (2001). Sports medicine for specific ages and abilities. Philadelphia: Churchill Livingstone.
Prentice, W. E. (2003). Rehabilitation techniques in sports medicine and athletic training. (4th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.
Watson, T. (2008). Electrotherapy: Evidence-based practice (Physiotherapy essentials). (12th ed.). Philadelphia: Churchill Livingstone.

Appropriately and adequately equipped `clinic¿ lecture room including appropriate electrotherapy equipment
Appropriately and adequately equipped lecture theatre including relevant electrotherapy equipment
Appropriately and adequately stocked library facilities.

No Special Admission Requirements