Physiotherapy

The Elective Educational Activity (ADE) aims to expand and deepen the student’s knowledge and professional skills in physiotherapy, with particular emphasis on the integration of theory, clinical practice, and scientific research. The course is designed to stimulate critical reflection on the role of the physiotherapist in the contemporary healthcare context, fostering understanding and application of the scientific method to everyday rehabilitative practice. Throughout lectures and practical sessions, key topics essential to physiotherapy education are addressed, including research methodology applied to rehabilitation sciences, interpretation of major study designs, and critical appraisal of scientific literature. Particular importance is given to the concept of Evidence-Based Practice (EBP), understood as the integration of the best available evidence, the clinician’s expertise, and the patient’s values and preferences. Students are guided in the analysis of scientific articles on current topics in physiotherapy, such as neuromotor rehabilitation, functional recovery in balance and coordination disorders, management of motor and cognitive fatigue in multiple sclerosis, use of technology in rehabilitation (tele-rehabilitation, wearable sensors, digital assessment tools), and the importance of monitoring clinical outcomes. Significant attention is devoted to functional assessment, the selection of valid and reliable measurement tools, and the ability to translate clinical scale results into therapeutic decisions. Concepts of bioethics, deontology, and professional responsibility are also introduced, as essential components of a conscious, person-centered clinical practice. Through clinical case discussions, simulations, and group work, students learn to structure coherent clinical reasoning, define measurable rehabilitation goals, and design safe and effective treatment interventions. The educational pathway also encourages reflection on communication and relational skills necessary to interact effectively with patients, caregivers, and the multidisciplinary team. Students are encouraged to develop the ability to communicate clinical information clearly, empathetically, and scientifically, to promote patient education, and to support active participation in the rehabilitation process. The final assessment is aimed at verifying the student’s ability to integrate theoretical, methodological, and practical knowledge, and to critically apply the principles of EBP and clinical reasoning in contemporary physiotherapy practice.

Participation in the Elective Educational Activity requires a basic knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pathology, as well as an understanding of the fundamental principles of physiotherapy assessment and treatment. Students should also have introductory skills in research methodology and a general understanding of Evidence-Based Practice principles, which are essential for interpreting and critically discussing scientific literature.

Fetters L., Tilson J. Evidence Based Physical Therapy (2nd Edition). F.A. Davis Company, 2018. An authoritative international reference for understanding and applying evidence-based physiotherapy, offering a systematic approach to research, critical appraisal, and the integration of evidence into clinical practice. Herbert R., Jamtvedt G., Hagen K.B., Elkins M. Practical Evidence-Based Physiotherapy (3rd Edition). Elsevier, 2022. An updated and practical guide helping students develop clinical reasoning and apply scientific evidence to deliver effective, evidence-informed physiotherapy care. Verde G. (Ed.) Rehabilitation Methodology and Strategies. Springer. A comprehensive work addressing rehabilitation methodologies and strategies, focusing on treatment design and functional outcome assessment within modern rehabilitation sciences.

Teaching is delivered in a traditional format through face-to-face lectures and classroom exercises. During the sessions, the instructor presents theoretical content supported by practical examples, clinical case discussions, and interactive moments with students, encouraging active participation and critical reflection on the topics covered.

Attendance is mandatory and is a prerequisite for admission to the final assessment. Activities are delivered through lectures, in-depth seminars, clinical case discussions, practical exercises, and group work, with an interactive approach aimed at encouraging active student participation.

The assessment consists of an oral examination aimed at evaluating the student’s understanding of the course content, critical thinking ability, and integration of theory, clinical practice, and Evidence-Based Practice principles. The exam also assesses clarity of expression, use of scientific language, and the ability to apply acquired knowledge to real clinical contexts.

Teaching is delivered in a traditional format through face-to-face lectures and classroom exercises. During the sessions, the instructor presents theoretical content supported by practical examples, clinical case discussions, and interactive moments with students, encouraging active participation and critical reflection on the topics covered.