CSP/ATACP Endorsed Foundation Course in Aquatic Physiotherapy

CSP/ATACP ENDORSED FOUNDATION PROGRAMME IN AQUATIC

PHYSIOTHERAPY

AIM

“To equip a physiotherapist with the knowledge and clinical reasoning skills necessary to work safely and unsupervised in a pool”.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

On completion of the course the participant ahould be able to:

Session 1

Discuss the relevant physical properties of water

Relate these properties to therapeutic techniques in the water

Relate 1 and 2 both to the treatment of patients, and to the changes that specific conditions may cause to a persons “Physical Properties”

Demonstrate an understanding of the physical properties of water to strengthening techniques in the pool

Appreciate and experience the effects of buoyancy, turbulence and the metacentre

on a body in water.

Session 2

Demonstrate an understanding of the effects of immersion on the physiology of the human body.

Relate these changes to the safe screening of patients prior to Aquatic therapy

Evaluate the effectiveness of aquatic therapy in a variety of clinical settings.

Demonstrate the ability to confidently use various flotation devices in regard to

patient handling

Demonstrate the ability to utilise the physical properties of water to improve range of movement for patients with stiff joints or tight soft tissues

Demonstrate safe therapeutic handing of a patent in water

Session 3

Demonstrate an understanding of the main Health and Safety legislation, and its

implications on running an aquatic therapy service

Demonstrate an understanding of water disinfection related to the pool environment.

Relate the above to maintaining a safe environment for staff and users including the ability to risk assess.

Demonstrate treatment skills including Relaxation, Stabilisation, and Balance work.

Relate these skills to the management of a variety of patient problems

Session 4

Demonstrate clinical reasoning skills in devising a treatment programme for patients with a variety of problems

Demonstrate an appropriate selection of treatment techniques for these patients