MSc Sport and Clinical Biomechanics

This module of study is available to provide mastery and expertise in quantitative research strategies, methods and techniques, specifically focussed on quantitative data so that students can undertake postgraduate research. The module aims to encourage critical understanding of how quantitative data should be handled and analysed using a variety of approaches. The module will provide the opportunity to develop critical analysis of statistical concepts and procedures, train them to use statistical analysis software and extend their knowledge of the experimental and research design process.

This module is fundamental to the analysis of quantitative data. It is expected that students develop the data handling and analysis skills that they will directly use in their MSc project.

This module provides the opportunity for students to further develop and extend their knowledge and practical experience of the research process, and to learn and make use of advanced research skills. 

After completing the module students should be able to:

1. Produce a piece of independent research in journal article format
2. Critically evaluate the concepts, methodologies and associated literature underpinning the research
3. Assimilate, integrate and critically discuss the research findings
4. Justify and critically discuss the research and research process

This module provides an opportunity to focus on the detailed use of measurement techniques in movement analysis. It aims to provide technical training in laboratory techniques appropriate to sport and clinical biomechanics. It enables you to develop laboratory skills so that you are able to collect and interpret biomechanical data to benchmark standards.

This module will equip students with 1) the necessary measurement skills to evaluate muscle performance in Sports and Clinical settings, 2) knowledge on the role of biomechanical factors at muscle-tendon-joint level for the expression of muscle performance, 3) skills to evaluate these biomechanical factors and the adaptation they undergo in response to altered mechanical loading in Sports and clinical settings. By doing so, the module will Prepare students to transition from their academic studies to successful and effective practitioners.

This module aims to provide the conceptual and practical knowledge in the context of biomechanical assessments. With continuous development of equipment, software, and sensors there is a demand for practitioners who have a variety of expertise and competency and who understand the need for timely feedback. Stimulus lectures will provide theoretical context and evidence-base behind certain tests, or the lack of it. Practical sessions will give a hands-on experiences conducting and reporting different biomechanical assessments. The variety of tools and assessments will provide students with a broad range of experiences of a variety of measurement and assessment tools. Specific areas of focus are injury prevention, performance enhancement, injury rehabilitation and load monitoring.

A highlight of the module is to observe a gait reporting sessions at Alder Hey Children's Hospital.

The acquired skills include the methodological aspects, comprehension of the latest research advances as well as the role of gait analysis in clinical decision making. We share the latest developments in clinical movement analysis with a focus on the latest research and how new applications emerge in clinical practice.

We will cover basic concepts in the beginning and then progress towards a higher level of complexity. Your existing knowledge of measurement techniques and data reduction techniques will be refreshed first. This knowledge will be applied in the understanding of normal gait. You will then be exposed to the interpretation of genuine biomechanical data gathered while testing individuals with a variety of movement problems. One of the most challenging parts will be an engagement in the process of clinical decision-making informed by biomechanical results. Finally, you will broaden your horizon inspired by the latest applied research presented by academic staff and invited specialists.

This module will prepare students for employment in applied sports science and to develop real-world applications of their theoretical knowledge and technical skills learned in other modules from the programme. Guided by the BASES competencies, students will develop understanding of the working environment within sport science and the knowledge and behaviours required to be successful. The module will enable students to self-evaluate, plan their professional development and reflect on experiences from the real-world environment. In addition, students will identify and develop key technical and non-technical skills for working successfully in sport science within their own discipline and collaborating as part of a multidisciplinary team.