39184 - Physiotherapy in Rheumathology and Geriatrics (IM)

Academic Year 2025/2026

  • Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures
  • Campus: Bologna
  • Corso: First cycle degree programme (L) in Physiotherapy (cod. 8476)

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student is able to apply knowledge and understanding regarding physiotherapy in the geriatric and rheumatologic fields. They are familiar with the basic principles of designing and implementing interventions aimed at meeting the needs of individuals with rheumatic and geriatric conditions.

Course contents

The Frailty of the Elderly
The Rehabilitation Project and Program for Elderly Patients
Immobilization Syndrome in the Elderly
The Project and Program for Patients with Lower Limb Amputation
Rehabilitation Strategies for Patients with Lower Limb Amputation
Types of Lower Limb Prostheses: Basic Concepts
Osteoporosis
Back Pain in the Elderly
Parkinson's Disease and Rehabilitation Strategies
Rehabilitative Aspects in Major Rheumatic Diseases: Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis
Transfer Methods for Elderly Patients with Related Pathologies

Readings/Bibliography

biomedical databases

Teaching methods

Lectures, presentation of clinical cases, practical sessions.

Assessment methods

The assessment of learning takes place through an oral exam during which the use of books, notes, or electronic devices is not allowed.

The oral interview will evaluate the critical thinking skills developed by the student on the topics covered in class and will verify the acquisition of the knowledge outlined in the course syllabus.

Demonstration of mastery in expressive ability and specific terminology will be evaluated with excellent grades.

The exam will include a practical part with a clinical case focusing on transfer methods and posture; simultaneously, questions will be asked regarding the theory presented in class, with particular emphasis on clinical reasoning.

Consultation of textbooks or notes is not permitted during the exam.

The evaluation will be expressed on a 30-point scale.

Teaching tools

Computer and video projector, TV with DVD player, blackboard.
Lecture slides.

Office hours

See the website of Maria Anna Vitiello