PT4004 - Neurological anatomy and physiology

What will I learn on this module?

This module will introduce you to the role and purpose of neurological physiotherapy. You will build on your knowledge of movement developed in the ‘foundation skills for physiotherapy practice’ and ‘Musculoskeletal anatomy and physiology’ modules to understand common presentations of movement dysfunction seen in people with neurological conditions.

You will explore the anatomy and physiology of the central nervous system to understand key topics such as movement control, sensation, vision and co-ordination. The module will introduce common neurological conditions in both adulthood and childhood that are commonly seen in physiotherapy practice. You will be encouraged to consider the impact on the individual of living with that condition through the inclusion of service user perspectives.

How will I learn on this module?

You will learn through lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials and independent learning. The module staff will support your learning and development across the module. There will be a strong emphasis on professional practical skills and the knowledge that underpins this, with opportunities to evaluate your learning formatively through active engagement in feedback.

The lectures will cover applied anatomy and physiology as well as the pathophysiology of common neurological conditions. Seminars and workshops will encourage you to discuss and apply this knowledge in relation to patient experience and the ICF Framework.

You will be expected to:
• Attend teaching sessions
• Be dressed appropriately for workshops
• Behave in a professional manner
• Engage and contribute to the learning and development of yourself and others

How will I be supported academically on this module?

Successful academic achievement requires a system of robust support and guidance to help you focus on your learning needs. In addition to the pastoral support you will receive, the tutors involved in delivering this module will provide guidance and academic counselling to ensure that you are able to confidently engage with the academic and practical rigour of this module. This dialogue will be face to face in lectures, seminars and workshops with tutorial support available, and is an essential aspect of the programme’s assessment for learning strategy. Extensive support is also accessible online as part of the University’s commitment to technology enhanced learning. This employs the use of the e-learning portal (Blackboard).

A central feature of the academic support available to you is the service provided by the University Library. This 24/7 service caters for all your learning needs, has extensive access to electronic texts and tutorials that will directly support the development of academic skills aimed at improving your critical thinking and communication skills.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Discuss the role and purpose of neurological physiotherapy

2. Understand the anatomy and physiology of the CNS and PNS and how this relates to function

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
1. Understand the application of anatomy and physiology of the CNS and PNS to common neurological conditions

2. Select and explain appropriate outcome measures relevant to specific neurological conditions

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
1. Demonstrate an appreciation of the impact of living with a neurological condition on an individual.

How will I be assessed?

Module formative assessment opportunities are provided in the form individual and group tasks relating to different sections of the summative exam.

The module summative assessment will take the form of an unseen examination. This will be in the form of a 2 hour exam paper comprised of multiple choice and short essay questions.

General cohort feedback will be provided via the e-Learning Portal (eLP, Blackboard)/e-mail.

K&U 1,2
IPSA 1,2
PVA 1

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

This module will enable you to develop an initial understanding of the role and purpose of neurological physiotherapy by introducing you to the underpinning theory around anatomy and physiology of motor control and relating this to common neurological conditions. The module aims to give you a sound theoretical knowledge base which will provide the foundation for assessment and treatment of neurological conditions later in the programme. In addition, you will be encouraged to explore the impact of living with a neurological condition using the ICF framework to understand impairments of body structure and function, limitations of activity and restriction of participation. This will be achieved through lectures, seminars and workshops which will allow you to discuss ideas and consolidate your knowledge. The module will be assessed through an exam that will consist of a mixture of multiple-choice questions and short essay questions.

Course info

UCAS Code B165

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 3 years Full Time

Department Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation

Location Coach Lane Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2025

Fee Information

Module Information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing. 

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.  

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

 

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