Diagnosis

The primary objective in the teaching of this subject is to develop skills in the various methods employed in evaluation of the individual including the theory underlying diagnosis and differential diagnosis for all the systems i.e., cardio-vascular, digestive, respiratory, excretory, endocrine, neurological and ENT.

A secondary, but equally important objective is to promote and cultivate an awareness of the variability that may occur in changing pathological states.

Clinical Methods and Procedures

An analysis of communication and its practical application to clinical practice. The theory underpinning the use of clinical investigations for example in the use of the stethoscope, sphygmomanometer, ophthalmoscope, auriscope, audiometer, peak-flow meter, ECG, ear syringe, thermometer and other primary care investigations. Functional tests of the heart, ECG, lungs, kidney, neurological system and musculo-skeletal system. Sequential application, where applicable, of inspection, palpation, percussion and ausculation. In the third year, practical application of these principles is developed in clinical practice.

Clinical Dietetics Clinical assessment of nutritional status.

Application of particular theories and practices of natural therapeutics, hydrotherapy, fasting and diets. This includes the patient's education towards a balanced style of living.

Visceral Osteopathy is included within this module and focuses on the anatomy, applied physiology and treatment methods to the visceral structures. The specialized fascial connections of the thoracic and abdominal cavities are emphasized to maximize the efficacy of physical treatment.

Gynaecology

Anatomy of the female reproductive system. The menstrual, ovarian and endometrial cycles. The physiology of pregnancy. Naturopathic principles in the aetiology of pelvic disorders. Clinical examination. Pathologies of the reproductive systems. Introduction to principles of obstetrics.

Psychology

This subject is approached practically with the study of the physiological, sociological and hereditary basis for psychological theories as well as discussion of the basis of intelligence and personality. Subsequent to a study of the principles of psychology, the student is introduced to a study of psychological disturbances, including neuroses, psychosomatic syndromes and the more serious border-line psychoses and psychotic conditions. The various psycho-therapeutic methods are studied. Relationship of stress to disease states is considered. Practical application of counselling techniques are experienced.

Paediatrics

Normal development and milestones of childhood are studied. Clinical examination of the child is discussed within the clinical situation. The special concerns and needs of the premature infant. Requirements of infant nutrition and feeding. Diseases of the newly born. Paediatric disorders of growth and development. Behavioural problems of childhood.

Pharmacology

Drugs are neither used nor prescribed by Osteopaths. However, patients may present in practice with an ongoing history of medication, which necessitates the understanding of drugs and their affects. This subject concentrates on the physiological/biochemical action of pharmacological agents, their side-effects and interactions.

Rheumatology, Orthopaedics and Traumatology

The detailed study of musculo-skeletal and related pathologies including degenerative joint disease, inflammatory joint disease, neoplasm's, fractures, dislocations and traumatology, osteochondroses, skeletal dysplasias and congenital deformities, and bone and joint infections. Sports related injuries. Neurologically related disorders.Specific orthopaedic tests and diagnoses including the interpretation of X-ray films and laboratory analyses of musculo-skeletal conditions.

X-ray Diagnosis

An interpretation of X-ray in bone and joint pathologies and thoracic and abdominal viscera. The importance of MRI, CT and Ultrasound in the diagnosis of musculo-skeletal disease. Interaction with the Radiographer in relation to investigative views and their interpretation via Radiologist reporting sessions.