This module will introduce the growth and ageing of the human spine with exploration of the biomechanical basis for clinical assessment and intervention. From this understanding the module will facilitate an advanced investigation into the mechanics and related pathologies of the spine. There will be a detailed review of basic assessment techniques employed in a clinical setting to measure spine and back movement right up to the use of three-dimensional movement analysis systems in a biomechanical laboratory. This will incorporate detailed protocols that have been utilised in the management and assessment of scoliosis patients both withing modelling research and withing clinical observations. As a student you will develop an appreciation to the wide variety of techniques and equipment available which will allow you to critically apply scientific methodological procedures in clinical working environment.

Assessment 1: A case study assignment incorporating poster presentation drawn from application of the module theory to clinical practice of a specific case study. Assessment 1 addresses LO 1 and 2.

Assessment 2: A Learning Diary reflecting on your work on the module as applied in practice spanning across all activities. Assessment 2 focuses on LO 3 and 4.

This module is a distance learning module based over 10 weeks of focused delivery. There are structured live webinars arranged throughout the module to create discussions and allow for formative feedback on tasks. There are active discussion boards used in blackboard which allow for classroom concepts to be debated as well as individual tasks that can be presented in tutorials to gain structured feedback on progress. All pre course reading materials and course documentation will be available through blackboard. It will be necessary for students to engage fully in the Black Board activities and tasks, and they are encouraged to participate in the discussion forums within blackboard to enhance the teaching / learning experience. This will consist of several Activities and Tasks, from which students will be asked to actively contribute to electronic based discussions.

1. Develop knowledge with a critical understanding of the normal development of the spine from birth to adolescence in relation to growth and maturation.
Knowledge and Understanding. Enquiry.

2. Apply an understanding of the biomechanical basis for appropriate clinical intervention regarding management of low back pain and paediatric spinal conditions.
Application, Enquiry and learning.

3. Review clinical tools and current trends in technology for movement analysis of the back and spine in a global context.
Reflection, Knowledge and understanding.

4. Demonstrate effective communication and discussion skills through the presentation of a poster on a chosen clinical case study and demonstrate an ability to evaluate and reflect on this process.
Communication, Reflection and Application.

Standard library and IT facilities.

Core Texts

Michael A Adams, Nikolai Bogduk. Kim Burton and Patricia Dolan. (2013)The Biomechanics of Back Pain. 3rd Edition. Churchill Livingstone . ISBN 9780702043130

Galbusera F and Hans-Joachim W. Biomechanics of the spine: Basic concepts, Spinal disorders and treatment. Academic Press (2018) ISBN 978-0128128510

Recommended Texts

Hamil - 2014 - Biomechanical basis of human movement 4th ed. Lippincott Williams and Wilkins. ISBN: 9781469891798, 1469891794

Students have to be either an allied health professional registered with the HCPC, Sports therapist or biomechanist who support allied health professionals or a medical professional. All whom are involved in musculoskeletal practice.

This module will introduce students to the complex growth and ageing of the human spine. There will be a detailed exploration of the biomechanical basis for clinical assessment and intervention. You will develop an appreciation to the wide variety of techniques and equipment available will allow you to critically apply scientific methodological procedures in clinical working environment.