Total Hours: 400 (1 credit = 10 hours)

Course Structure:

1. Muscle Anatomy & Physiology (80 hours, 8 credits)

   • Content:

     • Overview of the musculoskeletal system

     • Muscle structure and function (types of muscles, muscle fibres)

     • The role of muscles in movement

     • Understanding neuromuscular connections

     • Physiology of muscle contraction

     • Muscle energy systems

   • Time Allocation:

     • 40 hours theory, 40 hours practical.

2. Biomechanics of Joint Movement (50 hours, 5 credits)

   • Content:

     • Structure and function of joints (types of joints)

     • Joint kinematics: range of motion, degrees of freedom, joint stability

     • Biomechanical principles of movement (levers, forces, and torques in joint movement)

     • Assessing joint mobility and flexibility

     • Joint movement dysfunctions and corrections

   • Time Allocation:

     • 30 hours theory, 20 hours practical. 

3. Types of Stretch Protocols (80 hours, 8 credits)

   • Content:

     • Static stretching, dynamic stretching, PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation)

     • Ballistic and active isolated stretching

     • When to use different stretch techniques (before vs. after exercise, rehabilitation, and prevention)

   • Time Allocation:

     • 50 hours theory, 30 hours practical.

4. Physiology of Stretch Protocols (50 hours, 5 credits)

   • Content:

     • The physiological effects of stretching on muscles and joints

     • How stretching affects muscle length and flexibility

     • Nervous system involvement in stretching (reflexes, proprioception)

     • The benefits and risks of different stretch protocols

     • Evidence-based stretching techniques

   • Time Allocation:

     • 30 hours theory, 20 hours practical.

5. Pathology & Injury Management (60 hours, 6 credits)

   • Content:

     • Common musculoskeletal injuries (sprains, strains, tendinitis, bursitis)

     • Causes and risk factors for injury

     • Stretching for rehabilitation: how to use stretch protocols to aid recovery

     • Understanding pain, inflammation, and tissue healing processes

     • Developing injury prevention strategies

     • When to refer clients to other healthcare professionals

   • Time Allocation:

     • 40 hours theory, 20 hours practical.

6. Practical Application & Case Studies (80 hours, 8 credits)

   • Content:

     • Practical application of stretch therapy techniques

     • Designing stretch programs for different populations (athletes, elderly, general population)

     • Case studies of clients with specific needs (e.g., post-injury, chronic stiffness, sport-specific stretching)

     • Client assessment, treatment planning, and outcome evaluation

   • Time Allocation:

     • 30 hours theory, 50 hours practical.

Assessment:

• Theory Exams: To assess understanding of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and pathology (40%)

• Practical Assessments: Demonstrating the correct application of stretch techniques and treatment planning (50%)

• Case Study Report: Research-based assignment covering a client case with tailored stretch therapy solutions (10%)