27608 Prevention and Care of Athletic Injuries

Subject level: Undergraduate

Handbook description

This subject examines the management (recognition, treatment and prevention) of injuries related to sport, the workplace and physical activity. Emphasis is placed on immediate recognition and on-site treatment of injuries and the role of the human movement specialist in rehabilitation and prevention of athletic injuries.

Subject objectives/outcomes

On successful completion of this subject students should be able to:

1. Identify the mechanisms of injury, methods of diagnosis, choice of treatment, healing and expected functional results of injuries related to sport, the workplace and physical activity.
2. Discuss the role of the Human Movement specialist in regard to injuries in sport, the workplace and physical activity.
3. Apply the necessary skills to deal effectively with various injuries in sport, the workplace and physical activity.
4. Identify risks/hazards contributing to sport and workplace injuries and implement effective strategies to prevent their occurrence.

Contribution to graduate profile

This elective subject provides students with specific knowledge and understanding of the anatomical, biological, physiological and mechanical bases of injuries occurring in sport, the workplace and physical activity. As such, it provides students with the opportunity to consider various areas of dysfunction in human movement from both theoretical and operational perspectives.

Teaching and learning strategies

A range of face-to-face and online (UTSOnline) teaching strategies will be used in the delivery of the subject. Lectures involve face-to-face content delivery and also employ a wide range of media and electronic resources to enhance appreciation of the theoretical concepts covered. A comprehensive tutorial program is included for which students participate in the practical treatment of various injuries. Case studies are also used.

Content

• Role of the Human Movement professional, role of other team members, overview of workcover, Injury classification and identification
• Repair processes in musculoskeletal injuries, principles of treatment and management
• Sports taping and bandaging techniques
• Risk management, hazard assessment, lifting technique
• Massage and other treatment methods for injury
• Peripheral injuries (sport & the workplace)
• Injury issues for special populations
• Neck and back injury
• Prevention of injury in sport and the workplace
• Other specific injuries – eye, ear, cramp, CPR overview

Assessment

Assessment item 1: Seminar (Group)

Assessment item 2: Practical Class Exam (Individual)

Assessment item 3: Final Exam (Individual)