Last Updated on April 1, 2024 by Francis

If you are interested in pursuing a career in physiotherapy, then you need to know what to expect from the program. Understanding the subjects of the first year of physiotherapy is a good way to get a better idea of what lies ahead. In this article, we will provide an overview of the courses and topics typically covered in the first year of a physiotherapy program and discuss why they are so important. With this information in hand, you will be able to make an informed decision about enrolling in a physiotherapy program.

What are the Subjects of Physiotherapy 1st Year?

Anatomy

Physiotherapists require a comprehensive understanding of the human body in order to diagnose and treat conditions. Anatomy is the study of the structure of the human body and its systems and organs, and is the foundation of physiotherapy. In the first year of physiotherapy courses, students will be introduced to topics such as the musculoskeletal system, the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, the nervous system, and the integumentary system.

Musculoskeletal System

Students will become familiar with the structure and function of the skeletal system, including the bones and joints, along with the muscular system, which is responsible for movement. They will learn about the different types of muscles, how they move and interact with each other, and how they can be affected by injury or disease.

Joints

Students will also learn about the different types of joints in the body and how they are connected. They will study the biomechanics of the different joints, such as the knee and shoulder, and how they move. They will also learn about the range of motion in each joint and how to assess and diagnose joint injuries or diseases.

Physiology

Physiology is the study of the functioning of the different systems and organs in the body. In the first year of physiotherapy, students will learn about the different body systems and how they work together to keep the body functioning. This includes topics such as metabolism, respiration, circulation, excretion, and reproduction.

Metabolism

Students will learn about the different processes involved in metabolism, such as digestion, absorption, and energy production. They will also become familiar with the different hormones and enzymes involved in the process and how they affect the body.

Respiration

Students will learn about the respiratory system, including the functions of the lungs and how they work together to provide oxygen to the body. They will also study the different mechanisms of respiration, such as inhalation and exhalation, and the effects of the environment on breathing.

Biomechanics

Biomechanics is the study of the body’s movement and how it is affected by forces. In the first year of physiotherapy, students will learn about the different types of body movement, such as walking and running, and how they are affected by gravity and other forces. They will also learn about the different types of muscles and their role in movement.

Forces

Students will learn about the different forces that act on the body during movement, such as gravity and friction. They will study how these forces affect the body’s movement and how to control them to improve balance and posture.

Muscles

Students will learn about the different types of muscles and their role in movement. They will study how muscles contract and relax to produce movement, how they work together to produce efficient movement, and how they are affected by fatigue and injury.

Pathology

Pathology is the study of the causes, effects, and treatment of disease. In the first year of physiotherapy, students will learn about the different types of diseases and how they affect the body. They will also learn about the different treatments available and how to assess and diagnose diseases.

Diseases

Students will learn about the different types of diseases and their effects on the body, including the symptoms and complications associated with each disease. They will also study the different causes of diseases, such as genetic and environmental factors, and how to diagnose them.

Treatments

Students will learn about the different treatments available for different diseases, such as medication, surgery, and rehabilitation. They will also learn about the different techniques used in physiotherapy, such as massage, exercise, and stretching, and how they can be used to treat different conditions.

Few Frequently Asked Questions

What are the core subjects in Physiotherapy 1st year?

Answer: The core subjects that a student of Physiotherapy 1st year will study include anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, pathology and pharmacology. Anatomy is the study of the structure of the human body and the relationship between its parts. Physiology is the study of how the body works and the processes that occur within it. Biomechanics is the study of how forces acting on the body affect its movement. Pathology is the study of diseases and how they affect the body. Pharmacology is the study of drugs and their effects on the body.

What specific topics do these subjects cover?

Answer: Anatomy covers topics such as the structure of the musculoskeletal system, joint structure, muscles, and how they work together. Physiology covers topics such as the functioning of the organs, homeostasis, metabolism, and the body’s response to exercise and stress. Biomechanics covers topics such as kinematics, kinetics, and the relationship between movement and force. Pathology covers topics such as the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases. Pharmacology covers topics such as the effects of drugs on the body, drug interactions, and the use of drugs in the treatment of diseases.

What other topics are included in Physiotherapy 1st year?

Answer: In addition to the core subjects, Physiotherapy 1st year also covers topics such as electrotherapy, exercise prescription, and the application of manual therapy techniques. Electrotherapy covers topics such as the use of electrical stimulation to treat certain conditions. Exercise prescription covers topics such as the prescription of specific exercises to improve physical performance and reduce the risk of injury. Manual therapy techniques cover topics such as mobilization and manipulation of the joints and soft tissues.

Are there any practical components to Physiotherapy 1st year?

Answer: Yes, there is a practical component to Physiotherapy 1st year. This consists of learning and practicing the various manual therapy techniques and electrotherapy treatments. Students will also learn how to assess and diagnose patients, develop a treatment plan, and evaluate the outcomes of their treatments.

How is Physiotherapy 1st year assessed?

Answer: Physiotherapy 1st year is assessed via a combination of written exams, practical assessments, and assignments. Written exams test the student’s knowledge of the core subjects, while practical assessments test the student’s ability to apply the principles of physiotherapy to real life scenarios. Assignments involve the completion of research projects and essays related to the core subjects.

What skills will I gain from studying Physiotherapy 1st year?

Answer: By studying Physiotherapy 1st year, students will gain a thorough understanding of the core subjects and develop skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and teamwork. They will also gain clinical skills such as the ability to assess and diagnose patients, develop effective treatment plans, and evaluate the outcomes of their treatments. Practical skills such as manual therapy techniques and electrotherapy treatments will also be developed.

In conclusion, the first year of physiotherapy offers a comprehensive overview of the subject and is a great choice for those looking to pursue a career in this field. It covers a wide range of topics, from anatomy and physiology to kinesiology and pharmacology, to name a few. It’s a great way to get a solid foundation in the subject and can open up a world of exciting career opportunities.