Chiropractic Sciences 2 - Low Back and Pelvis

Unit code:HCS3001Study level:Undergraduate

Credit points

12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)

Location

City Campus

Prerequisites

192 credit points of Bachelor of Chiropractic Science
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Co-requisites
(Corequisite units must be studied concurrently with this unit)

Overview

In Chiropractic Sciences 2- Low Back and Pelvis students will build upon information from previous units by using clinical cases to aid authentic learning for the examination, diagnosis, and treatment of people with issues related to the low back and pelvis. Students will enhance their clinical reasoning by integrating findings from history, vital signs, physical examination, relevant lab tests and diagnostic imaging to form clinical impressions. They will then conceptualise safe and appropriate treatment plans including collaboration with other health care providers as appropriate. In lab sessions students will practice applying manual therapy, including joint and soft tissue mobilisation and manipulation, rehabilitation techniques, and the communication of lifestyle advice in a safe, appropriate and culturally responsive manner. Cases will include disorders such as acute injuries (bone and soft tissue), non-specific low back pain, disc herniations, non-traumatic vertebral displacement and minor dysplasias. Students will also be required to complete 40 hours of observational placement. These hours will be completed across the semester.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

Exhibit skills and knowledge in obtaining and interpreting health and social histories in a culturally sensitive manner;
Illustrate the skills and knowledge of conducting general physical examinations with informed consent and interpretation of examination results for conditions relating to lower back and pelvis;
Exhibit ethical, safe, and effective intervention procedures of the low back and pelvis, appropriately monitoring and adapting to patient responses;
Exemplify developing culturally responsive health care practice; and
Reflect on a range of factors influencing patient health and clinical reasoning.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Practical Demonstration | Grade: 20%

History and focused examination for low back – 20 minutes

Assessment type: Test | Grade: 25%

Online in-class test – 30 minutes

Assessment type: Case Study | Grade: 40%

Simulated case for low back (history, physical examination, care plan, manual therapy demonstration) - 30 minutes (Hurdle)

Assessment type: Portfolio | Grade: 15%

Logbook of completed placement hours and reflective essay on clinical experiences – 1200 words (hurdle)

The simulated case study for low back and pelvis is a hurdle requirement for this unit. Students must pass this assessment as it evaluates student competency in clinical skills essential for safe practice. In completing the simulated case, students will be required to demonstrate their understanding of the needs of diverse populations and delivery of culturally responsive care. Although the case study is a hurdle requirement for this unit, students are not required to complete this assessment prior to going on placement, as the placement is primarily observational. The portfolio assessment will form part of an ongoing reflection of learning and placement experiences which will occur in other units within the course.

To gain an overall pass in this unit students must attend a minimum of 80% of lab classes and complete required placement hours. Lab and placement attendance is required to ensure the development of knowledge, competency and safety in practical clinical skills.