Course overview
In this course, students will develop advanced student skills in the assessment and management of biomechanical problems, including fabrication of a range of rigid and semi-rigid foot orthoses and treatment options for injury management. History taking: key clinical indicators in the management of complex patients, examination techniques in adults, children and special needs groups; biomechanical assessment tests and techniques; diagnosis and anatomical identification; diagnostic x-ray and ultrasound prescription. Measurement techniques: gait analysis, use of measurement tools, prescription interpretation and analysis. Treatment prescription and injury management; exercise prescription, therapeutic ultrasound massage gait training, orthotic therapy; evaluation of the negative and positive cast; impression techniques: techniques of semi- and non-weightbearing casting, use of impression materials and plaster; manufacturing technique - cast modification, use of electrical equipment, equipment safety, thermoplastics manufacture, heel posting techniques. Ordering and evaluation of laboratory made orthoses: completion of prescription forms; modification and trouble-shooting; manufacture of moulded insoles, triplane wedges, other in-shoe modifications; problem solving and intervention techniques; education techniques and resources in orthoses development.
Course learning outcomes
- Undertake safe and appropriate biomechanical assessment, diagnosis and treatment planning of patients across the lifespan.
- Prescribe, critique and troubleshoot a range of orthotic devices for the treatment of lower limb conditions.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the range of materials and techniques available in the manufacture of orthoses.
- Discuss multidisciplinary management and appropriate referral to other health practitioners of the patient.
- Recognise the role and function of different orthotic designs, their indications and contra-indications and locate and utilise information relating to developments in orthoses manufacturing theory and practice.
- Identify potential clinical contraindications and devise alternative strategies of management to solve complex clinical presentations.
- Present information accurately and appropriately to patients, staff and students both in written and verbal forms.
Availability
Class details
Adelaide City Campus East
Class number 20779
Section CL01
Size 6
Available 6
Class number 20780
Section CL02
Size 6
Available 6
Class number 20781
Section CL03
Size 6
Available 6
Class number 20782
Section CL04
Size 6
Available 6
Class number 20783
Section CL05
Size 6
Available 6
Class number 29281
Section LE01
Size 30
Available 30
Class number 29282
Section PR01
Size 30
Available 30
Fee calculator
To display course fees, please select your status and program below:
We’re updating this Fee Calculator. It currently shows fees for programs only. Please check the relevant program for full fee details.
Study Abroad student tuition fees are available here.
Only some Postgraduate Coursework programs are available as Commonwealth Supported. Please check your program for specific fee information.
If you are studying in a Professional Pathway Psychology or Clinical Psychology program, please refer to the Student Contributions amounts published here.
The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.