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Introduction: The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a reproducible tool used to measure the depth and duration of the consciousness level of comatose patients, especially in emergency departments by healthcare professionals for neurological assessment. It is important for members of rehabilitation teams, specifically physical therapists (PTs) and nurses, to have knowledge of the GCS and the necessary skills to apply the scale and interpret the results. The present study is aimed to investigate and compare physiotherapist and nurses’ knowledge in using the GCS in hospital and clinical settings. Material & Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in which a convenience sample of 1,300 participants was chosen, considering nurses from government and private hospitals and PTs from hospitals and clinics in Faisalabad. SPSS Version 20 was used to enter and analyse the data. Pearson chi-square was used to find out association and Independent Samples t-test was used to compare the knowledge of PT and Nurses. Results: The findings of study revealed that majority of the PTs (84.1%) had good knowledge of the GCS, yet only 2.9% of nurses had good knowledge. Most participants with good basic knowledge of the GCS lacked knowledge in the application and interpretation of GCS. Age, gender, educational level, and type of health facility were strongly associated with level of knowledge with significant p value

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: Job related stress an important predictor of quality of work among health care professionals. The stress can affect the efficiency and capability of a working team. The objective of this study was to determine the work-related stress among physical therapists from different regions of Pakistan. METHODOLOGY: This was a cross sectional study having 264 participants after ethical approval from June 2020 to November 2020. The data was collected using convenient sampling technique. Physical therapist from the age range of 25 to 50 years old, both genders, with at least 2 years of clinical or teaching experience who were actively employed in either the public or private sector without a break were included. Data was collected through an online questionnaire “stress evaluation questionnaire for health care provider”. Microsoft Excel and SPSS Version 21 were used to present and analyze data. RESULTS: A total of 264 physical therapists from different regions of Pakistan participated in this study. Out of them 56% were males and 44% were females with a mean age of 34.5+ 9.5 and 31.5+ 8.5 respectively. From these, 38% of physical therapists were employed in academic organizations while 62% were working in clinical setups. Out of these, 211 (80%) participants were satisfied with their job but 57.6% of these participants had mild level of stress, while 14.4% had moderate stress and 2.7% had severe stress with p-value = 0.295. There was no difference observed in work related stress in male and female. CONCLUSION: The study concluded that 7.6% participants had mild, 14.4% had moderate and 2.7% had severe level of work related-stress.

Purpose: In skilled nursing facilities, burnout of rehabilitation professionals has captured researchers' attention due to high turnover and the effects that it has on the success of the rehabilitation department. This research was conducted to determine the factors of burnout experienced by rehabilitation leaders in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). Participants: A snowball sample of fifteen participants in North Carolina and Virginia completed a survey designed to identify common stressors in the work environment that contributed to burnout. Methods: A qualitative phenomenological research design consisting of short interviews where participants revealed their opinions, experiences and narratives related to their position was used. Participants' stories were coded in themes that highlighted the rehabilitation leaders and their roles. Results: Fifty-three percent of participants experienced high stress due to the demands of the job. Common themes in the research regarding factors contributing to burnout were multiple job roles and responsibilities, physical and mental exhaustion, and perceived lack of support from upper management. Conclusion: SNFs are characterized as challenging and demanding with multiple roles and responsibilities. Findings suggest that rehabilitation leaders identify discrepancy in work-life balance that ultimately fosters feelings of burnout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Orthodontie Française is the property of John Libbey Eurotext Ltd. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Wound management has become one of the ten physical therapy (PT) certification specialty areas. With this advanced clinical designation opportunity, more PT specialists and residencies with integumentary and wound management expertise will be needed for the educational and practice training of future specialists. The purpose of this study was to characterize wound management practice by licensed physical therapists in Texas. A Qualtrics survey was distributed to 19,159 licensed physical therapists. The questionnaire contained 23 questions that inquired into the subject's professional background, clinical experience, and opinions of wound care practice. The response rate was 9.6% (n = 1,839) and 1,643 respondents indicated that they were currently practicing. Although 69.1% of active physical therapists (n = 1,136) stated that they had practiced wound care at some point of their career, most of them do not practice wound care anymore and their reasons were discussed. Of those active physical therapists, 41.3% (n = 679) of them reported wound care was being practiced in their facilities, but only 18.3% (n = 311) directly practiced wound care. The respondents felt that the prevalence of wound management physical therapists practice over the last five years has been decreasing. The current prevalence of wound management practice is low and a decreasing trend of PT practice in wound care was observed in Texas. A limitation of this study is the low response rate. Future studies across different regions of the country are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the effect of long-term exercise on the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and all-cause mortality in patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD). A single-center, prospective intervention study using propensity score matching was performed over 24 months. The intervention group (n = 67) received six months of individual exercise instruction from a physical therapist, who performed aerobic and muscle-strengthening exercises under unsupervised conditions. New events were defined as the composite endpoint of stroke or CVD requiring hospitalization, initiation of hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis, or all-cause mortality. The cumulative survival rate without new events at 24 months was significantly higher in the intervention group (0.881, p = 0.016) than in the control group (n = 67, 0.715). Two-way analysis of variance revealed a significant effect of the group factor on high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) which was higher in the intervention group than in the control group (p = 0.004); eGFRcr showed a significant effect of the time factor, which was lower at 24 months than before intervention (p = 0.043). No interactions were observed for all items. In conclusion, aerobic exercises combined with upper and lower limb muscle strengthening for six months reduce the risk of developing CVD and all-cause mortality in patients with DKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Haemophilia is a rare congenital bleeding disorder, and the most common manifestation is spontaneous bleeding in muscles and joints. Despite the benefits linked to recent and dramatic pharmacological advances at least in high income setting, many patients still develop musculoskeletal dysfunctions during their lifetime, which must be managed by physiotherapists in the frame of a multidisciplinary team. The aim of the scoping review is to map the available evidence by providing an overview on the past and present physiotherapy scenario in persons with haemophilia (PWH). Materials and methods: The review was conducted according to the guidelines of the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews. Scientific articles on physiotherapy and sport interventions for PWH published from 1960 up to September 2021 have been included. Search was conducted on the e‐databases PubMed and PEDro without restrictions for the study design. Results: Sixty eight articles were included, 52 related to rehabilitation and preventive physiotherapy, 16 to sport. The results have been reported in chronological order and divided into two categories: (1) rehabilitation and preventive physiotherapy; (2) sport activities. Conclusions: This is the first scoping review on physiotherapy in haemophilia, based on the existing evidence on this topic which allowed us to underline how the role of the physiotherapist changed over time. Historically this specialist did intervene only after an acute bleed or surgical operation, but now he has a pivotal role in the multidisciplinary team that acts to improve from birth the quality of life of the PWH. His activity is also closely intertwined with sport promotion and supervision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Gait is a major function of independence that determines the quality of life, participation, and restriction. Gait assessment in physical therapy practice is fundamental for assessing musculoskeletal conditions. This study planned to determine the extent and barriers of using gait assessment tools by physical therapists in clinical practice in Saudi Arabia. Method: A cross-sectional design was used. A standardized survey was sent through e-mail and social media to physical therapists working in hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers in different Saudi Arabian regions. Results: A total of 320 physical therapists from different regions in Saudi Arabia participated. There was a significant relationship between using gait assessment tools by physical therapists and patient groups (p = 0.002), receiving training (p = 0.001), dealing with patients who suffer from gait problems (p = 0.001), and visiting the gait laboratory (p = 0.001). Physical therapists' use of gait assessment tools for musculoskeletal conditions in clinical practice in Saudi Arabia was limited. The primary barrier preventing physical therapists from using gait assessment methods in clinical practice was a lack of resources, including instruments, space, time, and funds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an educational campaign in promoting knowledge and attitudes concerning pressure ulcers among physical therapists working in tertiary care hospitals. METHODOLOGY: This study quasi-trial was conducted from January to October 2021 in which 45 PTs who worked in Neuro-spinal units were selected by purposive sampling from five randomly selected tertiary care hospitals in Faisalabad. The participants completed a questionnaire regarding their knowledge and attitude regarding pressure ulcer prevention and treatment, and their pre-test scores were recorded. After the pre-test, the primary researcher reviewed the incorrect responses of participants to develop and offer educational materials about the prevention and care of pressure ulcers. The "Pieper Pressure Ulcer Test" was used to evaluate changes in physical therapists' knowledge and attitudes toward pressure ulcer. SPSS 21 was used for the data analysis. RESULTS: The educational campaign had a significant effect on the knowledge and attitudes of PTs, with the mean of the pre-test true response of 31.65, the mean of the post-true response of 39.00, and the mean of the pre and post-incorrect response of 8.19, and 4.62 and don't know answers of 5.04, and 1.38, respectively. Based on one sample t-test, pre-true responses showed a 95% CI difference between 28.99 to 35.53 with a significant p-value <.001 and post-true responses showed 36.63 to 41.36 with a significant p-value <.001. CONCLUSION: This study concluded that the educational campaign improved physical therapists' knowledge and attitudes regarding pressure ulcers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Variations in clinical practice regarding the management of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) among clinicians have been noted in previous studies. Such variations might be related to the different adherence to clinical practice guidelines. Objective To evaluate clinicians' adherence to BPPV guidelines and investigate the variations in the adherence between different specialties and qualifications. Methods This is a cross-sectional study with a vignettes-based survey conducted between June and August, 2020. We included clinicians engaged in managing BPPV that had at least one year of clinical experience. We excluded students, and clinicians who were not involved in the management of individuals with BPPV. Participants were asked to make their management choices based on four hypothetical patient vignettes. The sample ranged from 77 participants for the first vignette to 45 participants for the last vignette. Results We included 77 clinicians in the study, with the majority being Otolaryngologists (31.2%). The respondents' mean adherence to the guideline was of 63.3%. Result showed that Otolaryngologists' adherence was higher than that of clinicians from different specialties (p = 0.006, d = 0.72). Furthermore, clinicians with a postgraduate degree were more likely to adhere than those with a bachelor's degree only (p = 0.014, d = 0.58) and participants who were aware of the guideline were more likely to adhere to it (p < 0.001, d = 1.05). Lastly, regression analysis exhibited that adherence was affected by postgraduate degree and guideline awareness. Conclusion Otolaryngologists were more likely to adhere to the guideline than other specialties. Among all specialties, higher adherence was associated with guideline awareness and postgraduate degrees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Given the poor functional outcomes associated with contraversive pushing after stroke and lack of evidence guiding physical therapy interventions, the PUSH (Prioritizing Upright, Standing, and Higher-level stepping activities) Strategy was designed to address unmet needs. The aim of this paper is to describe the clinical application of the PUSH Strategy delivered during the physical therapy plan of care within inpatient rehabilitation. METHODS: The PUSH Strategy was applied during clinical practice in a large, urban inpatient rehabilitation hospital for patients demonstrating contraversive pushing after stroke with the goals to (1) reduce contraversive pushing, (2) contribute to facilitation of a community discharge, and (3) improve functional outcomes. Subsequently, outcomes [Burke Lateropulsion Scale (BLS), discharge disposition, and the Mobility and Walk portions of the Continuity Assessment and Record Evaluation (CARE) Tool] were collected at admission and discharge to assess patient progress. RESULTS: Between 2018 and 2020, 11 patients participated in the PUSH Strategy with 73% of patients achieving all three Strategy goals. On average, patients saw improvement in pushing [admit, 7.73 ± 3.3 (moderate pushing); discharge, 1.55 ± 2.4 (no pushing)] and function (admit mobility, 9.9 ± 4.4; discharge, 21.5 ± 5.3 and admit walking 8.1 ± 0.3, discharge 9.6 ± 2.7) during their inpatient rehabilitation stay. Nine were discharged to the community (82%). CONCLUSIONS: The PUSH Strategy was successfully applied for patients with post-stroke contraversive pushing during inpatient rehabilitation. Overall, patients demonstrated reduced pushing and improved functional outcomes during their rehabilitation and most were discharged to a community setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of post-graduate rehabilitation therapists (novice therapists) is increasing due to the growing demand for rehabilitation services in Japan. This study investigated the acquisition status of Japanese novice therapists' basic clinical skills to clarify their quality and characteristics. Eleven participants' basic clinical skills (eight physical and three occupational therapists) were assessed using an Objective Structured Clinical Examination. Tasks included exercises of joint range of motion, muscle strengthening, getting up, standing up and sitting down, and transferring between wheelchair and bed. Assessment items were subdivided into categories: attitude, preparation, intervention, safety management, and feedback. One-way ANOVA and Friedman test were used for statistical analysis to compare the data between tasks and categories. The scores for each task's achievement rate were not statistically significant. However, the achievement rate of each category including tasks was 92.6% (SD 4.0%) for attitude, 81.4% (SD 11.1%) for preparation, 77.9% (SD 14.7%) for intervention, 87.6% (SD 17.3%) for safety management, and 64.0% (SD 14.2%) for feedback. There were significant differences between attitude and feedback (p < 0.001), and between safety management and feedback (p = 0.012). Post-graduate training programs should focus on improving the quality of clinical skills, especially in skills related to feedback. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Implementing standardised outcome measures (SOMs) in stroke rehabilitation practices enhances patient care, communication, and overall clinical effectiveness. However, the implementation of Arabic-validated SOMs in stroke rehabilitation practices among Arabic-speaking patients has not been fully explored., Aims: To examine the use, facilitators, and barriers of implementing Arabic-validated SOMs for chronic stroke rehabilitation among physical therapists., Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 262 physical therapists managing patients with chronic stroke. The survey evaluated the use, facilitators, and barriers to implementing Arabic-validated SOMs. Descriptive statistics summarised demographic and professional characteristics, while multivariate logistic regression identified independent predictors of SOM use, with adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals calculated., Results: The use of Arabic-validated SOMs in chronic stroke rehabilitation was reported by 54% of therapists within the first week of physical therapy services and 64% at discharge. The Berg Balance Scale and the Timed Up and Go test were the two most commonly employed scales. Facilitators for implementing SOMs included facilitating adherence to clinical practice guidelines, providing valuable patient insights, and supporting balanced assessments. Barriers included time constraints, financial limitations, and time demands on both patients and therapists. Familiarity with clinical practice guidelines was significantly associated with increased use of Arabic-validated SOMs., Conclusions: Implementing Arabic-validated SOMs is essential to ensure culturally appropriate and linguistically accurate evaluations that support evidence-based decision-making and enhance patient management in stroke rehabilitation among Arabic-speaking patients. Enhancing familiarity with clinical practice guidelines and addressing barriers such as time constraints and financial challenges can further promote the implementation of Arabic-validated SOMs into routine practice, ultimately improving patient outcomes., (© 2025 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association of physical therapists' attitudes and beliefs about low back pain treatment outcomes within a publicly funded health care system., Methods: Data from a national outpatient physical therapist service provider were analyzed. Functional status data were collected at intake and discharge. The Attitudes to Back Pain Scale in Musculoskeletal Practitioners Questionnaire was used to assess physical therapists' attitudes. Multilevel regression models were employed to examine the effects of physical therapists' attitudes while controlling for patient and physical therapist characteristics., Results: The study included 68 physical therapists and 1043 patients. The physical therapist level explained a small portion of the variance in patients' function (2%-4%). A more biomedically oriented attitude was associated with a slightly lower patient function level (β = -.08), but patient characteristics largely influenced this effect. Other attitude factors were not significantly associated with function. Sensitivity analyses aligned with the main findings., Conclusions: The study suggests that physical therapists' attitudes have a limited impact on low back pain treatment outcomes within a publicly funded health care system. While a more biomedically oriented attitude was associated with slight negative effects, the clinical relevance is questionable. Further research in diverse settings is needed to validate and contextualize these findings. The study underscores the importance of considering patient-level factors and health care system context in interpreting practitioner effects on treatment outcomes., Impact: Patient characteristics are more significant in explaining functional outcomes than physical therapists' characteristics and attitudes. A marginally small association was observed, indicating that a more biomedically oriented attitude among physical therapists was linked to slightly lower patient functioning. Despite the observed association, the clinical relevance of physical therapists' attitudes in low back pain treatment outcomes remains modest., (© The Author(s) 2025. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the American Physical Therapy Association.)

The frequency of obesity has risen around the world. Individuals in the world are in danger of developing various comorbidities, for example, cardiovascular disease, diabetes etc. This article describes the knowledge, attitudes, and practice with regards to physiotherapists in Pakistan concerning the treatment of individuals who are obese. The objective of current study is to identify physiotherapists' knowledge, attitude and practice about weight gained and physical activity of obese individuals. This cross-sectional KAP study is conducted on the operating government and private field physical therapists by the students of physiotherapy IPM&R, DUHS Karachi. Non-probability purposive sampling approach is used for sampling. Sample size of 124 participants is calculated simply by online software Open Epi. To gather data, an adopted questionnaire was used while study duration was three months. Data was collected from IPM & R, Dow University of Health Sciences, DUH Ojha Campus, Dr Ziauddin Hospital, JPMC, SMBB Trauma Centre, Rabia Moon (Trust), MMI hospital, Dewan University, Indus Hospital, National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Agha Khan University Hospital, Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT). In this study 126 physiotherapists took part. According to most of physical therapists, physical inactivity (85%), high fat diet (81%) and overeating (80.2%) are the main reasons that cause obesity and the combination of diet and exercise are considered as essential treatment. Majority of physiotherapists recommend exercising more (81%) and would never recommend clients for bariatric surgery (42.9%) as a part of their practice. Regarding the knowledge, participants cannot differentiate between clinical definitions of obesity and overweigh. The result concluded that physical therapist indicated that there is inverse relationship between physical activity and weight gain. Calorie intake restriction combined with increase physical training represents an effective approach to increase weight loss and reduce fat mass in obese individuals. There is a need and strongly recommended education programs to enhance physical therapists' knowledge about obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and Review of Literature.: Physical therapist (PT) and PT assistant (PTA) education programs have historically required preadmission observation hours (ObHr) as an admission requirement. The variability of conditions surrounding ObHr lends itself to investigation. The aims of this study were to (1) identify the perceived value of ObHr to Admission Committee (AC) members, Directors of Clinical Education, current Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students, and PT clinicians, (2) examine the effect that ObHr have on the decision-making process of AC members, and (3) examine the effect that ObHr had on current DPT students' decisions to pursue a PT career. Subjects.: Four stakeholder groups were targeted (N = 4,471). Methods.: This descriptive, cross-sectional study utilized surveys to collect quantitative and qualitative data through closed-ended and open-ended questions. This article encompasses the analysis of the quantitative components by analyzing fixed responses on stakeholder surveys. Qualitative findings are reported in a separate article. Results.: Perceived purposes of ObHr by stakeholders were as follows: (1) to gain an accurate understanding of the depth and breadth of the profession, (2) to confirm a desire to pursue PT as a profession, and (3) to better understand the roles and responsibilities of PT. The number of necessary ObHr varied among the groups ranging from 0 to 100 hours. Student perception that completing more hours than required would assist in their favorability for acceptance was debunked. Discussion.: There was consensus among all groups regarding the perceived purposes. Variability of stakeholder perception of necessary ObHr to achieve goals was revealed. Doctor of Physical Therapy programs should be transparent and clarify the purpose and quantity of required ObHr. Conclusion.: Long-standing requirements could be taxing current resources and limiting entry into the profession. Determining the minimum number of necessary ObHr, considering virtual methods, and employing distinct transparency on how ObHr are used in the decision-making process are opportunities for further study to address these issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Following central nervous system damage, the recovery of motor function is a priority. For some neurological populations, functional electrical stimulation (FES) is recommended in best practice guidelines for neurorehabilitation. However, limited resources exist to guide FES application, despite clinicians reporting that a lack of FES knowledge prevents use in clinical practice. The FES Clinical Decision Making Tool was developed to assist clinicians with FES application and translation into clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the content validity of the Tool from the perspectives of Canadian physical and occupational therapists using FES in neurorehabilitation. Methods: Thirteen participants (twelve women, one man), aged 40.5 ± 10.3 years, participated in individual semi-structured interviews to explore their clinical decision making experiences when applying FES and to evaluate the content validity (i.e., appropriateness, comprehensibility, and comprehensiveness) of the Tool. Interviews were analyzed using a qualitative conventional content analysis following the DEPICT model. Results: Three themes were identified. 1) Clinician context influences FES usage. Participants' experiences with FES use varied and application was influenced by treatment goals. 2) Parameter selection in clinical practice. Participants identified decision-making strategies and the challenges of parameter selection. 3) With modifications, the Tool is a valid resource to inform FES applications. Participants discussed its strengths, limitations, and suggested changes. While the Tool is useful, a more extensive resource (e.g., appendix) for the Tool is warranted. Discussion: A revised Tool was created to improve its comprehensiveness and comprehensibility. Thus, the Tool is a valid resource for applying FES in neurorehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction/Objectives: This study aimed to clarify what primary care physicians (PCPs) in Japan understand of the role of physical therapists (PTs) through the experience of working with PTs in hospitals, and what roles PCPs expect for PTs in future primary care. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted individually with 9 purposively sampled PCPs with sufficient experience of collaboration with PTs. Interview data were analyzed by theme analysis focusing on "What does the PCP understand about the role of PTs through the experience of working with PTs in hospitals?" and "What roles and purposes does the PCP wish for PTs in primary care settings?" Results: PCPs viewed PTs as providers of rehabilitation in the traditional medical model, and understood their role as an occupation having a mono-causal viewpoint, namely a specific and well-defined outcome for individual patients, and intervening with patients within a short clinical course with the aim of improvement or maintenance of the patient's condition. With regard to future primary care, PCPs expected that PTs would interpret various factors related to patient lives from the viewpoint of causal interactions; become important stakeholders in the community; and respond flexibly to patients and the environmental factors around them with continued support to the individual. Conclusions: PCPs understood the role of PTs in hospitals as "Rehabilitation in the traditional medical model," and expected the future role of PTs in primary care as "Rehabilitation in integrated community care." [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disease-modifying therapies for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) are rapidly changing the outlook for many individuals by substantially altering the clinical course, phenotypic expression, and functional outcomes. Physical therapists have played critical roles in the effective conduct and execution of clinical trials leading to the approval of these therapies. Given the treatment landscape, educating practicing clinicians to understand best practice is of great importance, and a timely call to action to facilitate knowledge translation from SMA researchers to clinicians is necessary. The SMA Clinical Trial Readiness Program engaged clinical and research centers, identified physical therapy knowledge gaps related to evaluation and outcomes assessment, and provided educational resources, including the development of a SMA Best Practices Clinical Evaluator Toolkit. Toolkit content synthesizes evidence and covers a breadth of issues relevant to practice, including background on SMA and the drug pipeline; therapist roles and responsibilities related to research; clinical and research evaluation; and useful materials and resources for additional education, training, and professional development. Surveys and telephone interviews were conducted with physical therapists managing individuals with SMA to determine their SMA practice experience and educational needs. Their recommendations, along with synthesized SMA research evidence, provided input into toolkit content development and assisted in identifying gaps important to address. Impact was assessed over time via utilization feedback surveys downloaded by clinicians across various settings. Open-ended feedback supported beneficial use of the toolkit for clinicians and researchers working with individuals with SMA. Next steps should include timely dissemination to bring this resource and others into practice in a systematic, efficacious, and engaging manner. As the treatment landscape for SMA evolves, the therapist's role in multidisciplinary care and research is of great importance, and a call to action for the development, implementation, evaluation and reporting of informed knowledge using evidence-based knowledge translation strategies is critical. Impact Partnership among patient advocacy groups, industry collaborators, and key opinion leaders/experts can optimize essential resource development to address the knowledge gap for best practices in physical therapy. This partnership model can be replicated for other diseases, providing an efficient way to support clinical trial readiness and target early development of evidence-based content and resources related to both research and best practice clinical evaluation for physical therapist researchers, clinicians, and patients. While identifying knowledge gaps and resource development are initial steps toward change in SMA practice, a rapidly changing rehabilitation outlook warrants a call to action for enhanced efforts aimed at improving rehabilitation evaluation, assessment, and care for this population. It is critical to forge a timely path forward for development, implementation, and sustainability of effective knowledge translation to practice for SMA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectivesTo evaluate the accuracy of detection of temperature differences among skin sites of lay individuals and manual physical therapists.MethodsForty-four manual physical therapists and 44 lay individuals were recruited. Subjects palpated two temperature-controlled surfaces that ranged in temperature between 30 and 35 °C and varied randomly by 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 °C for 10 s. The subjects were then asked to identify the warmer pad.ResultsAccuracy increased with larger temperature differences. Accuracy of detection of 1 and 3 °C temperature differences was higher in manual physical therapists than lay individuals.DiscussionPalpation can be used to accurately detecting temperature differences between sites and is more accurately performed by an experienced practitioner.Level of evidence3b.

IntroductionFollowing central nervous system damage, the recovery of motor function is a priority. For some neurological populations, functional electrical stimulation (FES) is recommended in best practice guidelines for neurorehabilitation. However, limited resources exist to guide FES application, despite clinicians reporting that a lack of FES knowledge prevents use in clinical practice. The FES Clinical Decision Making Tool was developed to assist clinicians with FES application and translation into clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the content validity of the Tool from the perspectives of Canadian physical and occupational therapists using FES in neurorehabilitation.MethodsThirteen participants (twelve women, one man), aged 40.5 ± 10.3 years, participated in individual semi-structured interviews to explore their clinical decision making experiences when applying FES and to evaluate the content validity (i.e., appropriateness, comprehensibility, and comprehensiveness) of the Tool. Interviews were analyzed using a qualitative conventional content analysis following the DEPICT model.ResultsThree themes were identified. 1) Clinician context influences FES usage. Participants' experiences with FES use varied and application was influenced by treatment goals. 2) Parameter selection in clinical practice. Participants identified decision-making strategies and the challenges of parameter selection. 3) With modifications, the Tool is a valid resource to inform FES applications. Participants discussed its strengths, limitations, and suggested changes. While the Tool is useful, a more extensive resource (e.g., appendix) for the Tool is warranted.DiscussionA revised Tool was created to improve its comprehensiveness and comprehensibility. Thus, the Tool is a valid resource for applying FES in neurorehabilitation.

Abstract Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is characterized by skin fragility with blister formation occurring spontaneously or following minor trauma such as gentle pressure or friction. Current physiotherapy practice is based on anecdotal care, clinical expertise and creative problem solving with caregivers and individuals with EB. Evidence based intervention is needed to establish a foundation of knowledge and to guide international practitioners to create and improve standards of care to effectively work with individuals living with EB. This clinical practice guideline (CPG) was created for the purpose of providing evidence based interventions and best clinical practices for the physiotherapy management of individuals with EB. A survey was conducted within the EB community and six outcomes were identified as a priority to address in physiotherapy management, including (1) attaining developmental motor milestones, (2) identifying safe and functional mobility in the natural environment, (3) encouraging ambulation endurance, (4) supporting safe ability to bear weight, (5) improving access to physiotherapy services, and (6) optimizing interaction with the community. A systematic literature review was conducted and articles were critically analyzed by an international panel consisting of thirteen members: healthcare professionals (including physiotherapist, doctors, and occupational therapist), caregivers, and individuals with EB. Recommendations were formulated from evidence and panel consensus. An external panel of twelve were invited to improve the quality and gather feedback on draft manuscript and recommendations. This CPG describes the development of recommendations for physiotherapy management including several best practice interventions. This guideline lays the foundational work for physiotherapist throughout the world to provide high quality services while improving and maintaining functional mobility and independence within the EB community. The CPG outlines limitations in the evidence available and possible future research needed to improve physiotherapy practice.

Copyright of Journal of Health & Life Sciences / Sağlık ve Yaşam Bilimleri Dergisi is the property of Istanbul Kultur University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine the status of locomotive syndrome (LS) and the level of physical activity (PA) in long-term inpatients in a psychiatric care ward and to investigate the association between the severity of LS and the level of PA. The study participants consisted of 25 patients aged 55 years or older who had been admitted to a psychiatric care ward for more than one year. The participants' LS stage was determined and their level of PA was measured using an accelerometer. We also analyzed the correlations between the LS stage test results, level of PA, and values for each assessment item. The LS stage test showed that 84.0% of the participants were at stages 3. The participants' mean step count was 3089.8 ± 2346.5 steps. The participants' mean sedentary time was 349.7 ± 68.9 min, which is more than 70% of the total measuring time. Overall, the results indicate that LS stage was significantly correlated to age, ADL, and level of PA. Patients who stay in a psychiatric care ward experience declining motor functioning and lack PA. Deterioration of motor functioning is associated with lack of PA, suggesting the need for physical intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adverse events (AEs) during intensive care unit (ICU) rehabilitation and serious AEs during acute care hospital stays have been reported previously. However, no AEs have been reported for all patients needing rehabilitation in a non-ICU setting at an acute care hospital. This study aimed to investigate all AEs during acute-phase rehabilitation. Reports of AEs occurring during acute-phase rehabilitation in a university hospital from 1 April 2021 to 31 March 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Minor and severe AEs were defined as those that did not require new treatment and those that required intensive treatment and/or prolonged hospitalization, respectively. There were 113 incidences of AEs during rehabilitation. The majority of AEs were minor (93.8%) and did not require new treatment. Only one serious AE was documented. The most common AEs were peripheral intravenous tube removal, decreased level of consciousness, poor mood due to low blood pressure, and falling down. There was no significant correlation between years of experience and the frequency of AEs. The neurosurgery department had the highest cases of AEs. Physical, occupational, and speech-language-hearing therapists had different characteristics and experiences of AEs. Risk management strategies should consider exercise load and targeted disorders due to differences in therapists' specialties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the United States, attaining the orthopedic certified specialist (OCS) credential or the orthopedic subspecialty credential of Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists (FAAOMPT), may lead to a higher level of orthopedic practice. It is unknown whether attaining these credentials influences physical therapist confidence in and frequency of engagement in prescription opioid medication misuse (POMM) management practices. A national cross-sectional web-based survey of PTs identified whether respondents had an OCS or FAAOMPT credential. Self-report confidence in POMM-related management practices and the frequency of engaging in these practices were assessed. Logistic regression evaluated association between credential status and confidence in, and frequency of, engagement in POMM-related management practices. The analysis included 402 respondents with a mean age of 41.0 (SD = 11.2) and 203 (50.4%) females. There were 91 (22.6%) PTs with a FAAOMPT credential, 143 (35.6%) with an OCS but with no FAAOMPT credential and 168 (41.8%) had neither credential. Compared to those with an OCS credential, FAAOMPTs reported greater confidence in, and greater frequency of engagement in, POMM-related management practices (p<.05). Compared to those without an OCS or FAAOMPT credential and compared to those with an FAAOMPT credential, those with an OCS did not report greater confidence or greater engagement in any POMM-related management practice (p≥.05). Obtain the FAAOMPT credential may increase PTs' confidence in some POMM-related management practices. Research is needed to determine why FAAOMPTs report greater confidence and engagement in POMM-related management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effects of physical therapists' exercise instructions in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes. Thirty-six participants were recruited from the outpatient clinic at Matsushita Memorial Hospital, Osaka, Japan from June 2020 to September 2020 and were randomly assigned to either the non-intervention or intervention group. The intervention group received exercise instructions from physical therapists for 30 min at baseline (week 0) and at week 4 by referring to ambulatory accelerometer records. Laboratory parameters, physical activity, body composition, motor skill, and transtheoretical model were assessed in both the groups at baseline (week 0) and week 8. In week 8, patients in the intervention group had a statistically significant reduction in HbA1c levels compared with those in the non-intervention group (7.3% [6.8-%-7.9%] vs. 7.4% [7.3%-7.7%], P = 0.04). The number of steps per day (P = 0.001), energy expenditure (P = 0.01), lower extremity muscle strength (P = 0.002), and 6-min walk test results (P = 0.04) were significantly increased in the intervention group compared with those in the non-intervention group in week 8. The transtheoretical model varied between baseline (week 0) and week 8 only in the intervention group (P < 0.001). Thus, outpatient exercise instructions from physical therapists could improve glycemic control owing to physical activity by improving motor skills and changing the transtheoretical model in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction.: Victims of intimate partner violence (IPV) access various health care services for diagnosis and treatment of their injuries. The primary aim of this study was to examine whether IPV attitudes, perceived knowledge, and preparation differ by the health care program in which the students are enrolled. The secondary aim was to determine whether demographic and clinical variables known to predict self-perceived IPV knowledge and preparation differ between health care professions. Review of Literature.: Intimate partner violence is a global public health concern affecting approximately 25% of women and 10% of men. Persons with a history of IPV have elevated health care utilization rates compared with persons with no history of IPV. Health care providers without adequate IPV training may discount/minimize the abuse or blame the victim for the abuse. Subjects.: Respondents included students enrolled in entry-level physical therapy/occupational therapy programs (n = 96), prelicensure nursing programs (n = 141), and medical school (n = 154). Methods.: Respondents completed the Nursing Roles and Values Scale, Domestic Violence Myth Assessment Survey, and a modified Provider Readiness to Manage IPV Survey online. Results.: Physical Therapy/Occupational Therapy (PT/OT) students had the lowest self-perceived IPV knowledge and preparation scores and were more likely to adhere to IPV myths. Self-perceived IPV knowledge and preparation were predicted by student's opinions about IPV and level of IPV training, regardless of health care profession. Lifetime IPV experience predicted medical student's level of IPV knowledge but did not predict PT/OT and nursing students' knowledge. Discussion and Conclusion.: Intimate partner violence education was shown to significantly influence students' perceived knowledge and preparation to care for victims of IPV, supporting the need for inclusion of IPV content in health profession curricula. Academic programs provide an ideal opportunity to prepare future health care providers with the knowledge and preparation to appropriately respond to IPV in the clinical environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose.: Strong academic–clinical partnerships have been advocated to optimize the training of the next generation of health professionals and to best meet the needs of patients and society. Despite the benefits of partnerships, there is a lack of literature describing successful models for collaboration between physical therapist (PT) schools and academic medical center hospitals. The purpose of this article was to describe the formal partnership between the Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences (DPTHMS) and Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago, Illinois. Method/Model Description and Evaluation.: The partnership is presented through the lens of D'Amour's 4-dimensional model of collaboration highlighting 4 critical dimensions of collaboration: shared goals and activities , internalization , formalization , and governance. Outcomes.: The establishment of this partnership has fostered the institutions' achievement of mutual goals supporting their interconnected visions and missions. Examples of the collaboration's shared goal and activities include: the tripling of clinical education experiences for professional Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students; establishment of 2 post professional PT residency programs; proliferation of DPT teaching opportunities for Shirley Ryan AbiltyLab clinical PTs with formal university academic appointments for 6 Shirley Ryan Ability Lab PTs; and clinical appointments for 7 of 34 eligible DPTHMS faculty members. The internalization dimension is evidenced by regularly scheduled communications; promotion of opportunities for mutual acquaintanceship through shared boards and teams; socialization opportunities; and trust-building across institutions. The primary example of formalization is the legal collaboration agreement signed in 2013 and amended in 2019. Partnership governance is achieved through a structure of designated liaisons, shared boards, and regular interinstitutional leadership meetings. Discussion and Conclusion.: D'Amour's structuration model describes predictors for successful interinstitutional clinical–academic partnerships. The model's 4 collaboration dimensions facilitate the assessment of partnership success for both established partnerships and for institutions in the planning stage of such collaborations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, fuzzy-logic systems are implemented to control machinery or processes that previously required human manipulation. The main objective of this research is to propose a controller based on fuzzy-logic that uses bio-signals for decision making. The study presents the implementation of a fuzzy-speed controller for a therapeutic machine called cycloergometer. It is used in patients who require rehabilitation therapy to improve their mobility in the lower body or to increase their relaxation or flexibility. Basic controllers have been developed where the speed is decided through a user interface, and the therapist must constantly increase or decrease the speed according to the condition of the patient. In this paper, the speed of the therapy equipment is adjusted using the heart rate of the patient. In this way, a bio-signal is used to determine whether a person is tired or relaxed. Therefore, a mechanism is obtained that is not subject to the visual criteria of the therapist. A detailed review of the literature illustrates that one of the main limitations of electroencephalography and electromyography recordings is the low signal-to-noise ratio and the fact that the signals captured at the electrodes are a mixture of sources that cannot be observed directly with noninvasive methods. Therefore, it was decided to work with electrocardiogram-based signals for better robustness of the proposed system. The controller output is a voltage signal in PWM, which is determined by the membership and error functions. The behavior of the implemented controller is validated by different experimental tests based on the increase and decrease of the simulated and real heart rate of a patient. Finally, the results obtained and the possible areas of opportunity for the proposed design are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Arquivos de Ciências da Saúde da UNIPAR is the property of Associacao Paranaense de Ensino e Cultura and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome affects one out of ten people throughout their lives, and repetitive work related conditions affecting wrist and hand are the most common cause of prolonged absenteeism from work and limited functional ability. Multiple physical therapy interventions have been used by physical therapists for reducing pain severity, increasing range of motion and decreasing functional limitations in carpal tunnel syndrome. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 196 physical therapists in Karachi, Pakistan. Demographic data of physical therapists was obtained, as well as information regarding carpal tunnel syndrome and its intervention techniques used. Conclusion: There existed variability among the treatment preferences of physical therapists regarding the management of carpal tunnel syndrome. A majority of respondents (72.4%) used nerve mobilization techniques, and therapeutic ultrasound was given by 66.3%. The least common intervention used was myofascial release (28.1%). Different approaches had been given in combination as well, which showed that physical therapists are also aware about the recent approaches and their effects for the management of CTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Physical therapists are required to perform tasks that predispose them to developing work related musculoskeletal disorders. The physical therapists personal and professional life can be affected by work related musculoskeletal disorders. High level evidence is lacking regarding work related musculoskeletal disorders. The purpose of this study was to combine information on prevalence, risk factors and the consequences of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in physical therapists. Material & Methods: A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines.Three members independently searched the databases PubMed and other online sources including google scholar for relevant data from July 2014 to September 2020. Cross-sectional studies published in English language which reported work related musculoskeletal disorders in physical therapists were included. Studies involving physical therapy students and internees, having insufficient information about past or current work-related musculoskeletal disorders, sample size of physical therapists less than 50 and not published in peer reviewed journals were excluded. Results: Twenty one articles were included in current systematic review. The 1-year prevalence of workrelated musculoskeletal disorders among physical therapists ranged from 38.5% to 97.6%. The low back was the commonest affected body part. Treating large number of patients and manual therapy were the leading risk factors for developing work related musculoskeletal disorders. The most common consequences were modifying treatment techniques and reducing work hours. Conclusion: Prevalence of work related musculoskeletal disorders are high among physical therapists. The nature of physical therapy job presents significant risk factors which can lead to work related musculoskeletal disorders.

Introduction: Job satisfaction is progressive emotional response and attitudes of people towards their work. It is the result of multidimensional factors included working conditions. Important predictors of satisfaction with one's job are said to be the power and confidence in leadership in department, interpersonal relationships with supervisors and co-workers, skill or career development opportunities and time for professional development and fair salary status compared to peers having same experience and practical skills. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the Job satisfaction among physical therapists working in public and private sectors of Peshawar. Material & Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted on 100 physical therapists working in Public and Private physical therapy departments of Peshawar. Duration of study was 4 months (Oct-18 to Jan-19). Data was collected through job satisfaction survey questionnaire from 14 institutes. Those participants who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were recruited. Participants who were not employed at the time of study and had an experience less than 6 months were excluded from the study. While analyzing the data, frequency was calculated for gender, age, full-time or part-time job status, salary range, work duration, years of experience and area of work and their association was found with total satisfaction using Chi square test while correlation was found using Pearson correlation. Results: Out of 100 participants, 46% were males and 54% were females with age ranging from 23-43 years. Among all, 68% were ambivalent, 29% were completely satisfied, while only 3% were not satisfied. Positive correlation was found among all the subscales except with fringe benefit which was not significantly correlated with the total score. Conclusion: Majority of the physical therapist working in government and private sector ambivalent regarding job satisfaction level. Mainly job satisfaction was positively correlated with pay, supervisor attitude, contingent rewards and nature of work, operating policies and procedures, and communication within the organization.

[Purpose] This study examined the feasibility of including physical therapists in the Health Services and Preventive Care program at community gatherings. [Participants and Methods] The participants were 56 older adults from five community gatherings who did not have a long-term care insurance service. As part of the Health Services and Preventive Care program, interventions by physical therapists were conducted for 90 minutes once a month for 6 months at five community gatherings, which involved exercises, and home-based exercises. The feasibility outcomes were dropout rate, number of times people participated in the program, and understanding of frailty. The effectiveness outcomes were frailty, grip strength, walking speed, and five-times-sit-to-stand test. [Results] The feasibility study results showed a dropout rate of 4.3%, 4.7 ± 0.4 times participation, and a 93.2% frailty understanding. Effectiveness outcomes revealed no increase in frailty. The physical indices showed that all participants statistically improved in the five-times-sit-to-stand test (Pre: 7.3 ± 2.3 times, Post: 6.5 ± 7.6 times). [Conclusion] The results of the feasibility study indicate that the program is feasible because of the high rates of completion and frailty prevention understanding., Competing Interests: None., (2024©by the Society of Physical Therapy Science. Published by IPEC Inc.)

Background: The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that all healthcare providers be trained to screen for misuse and/or opioid use disorder. An opioid misuse training program for physical therapists was developed and implemented. The purposes of this research were to (1) understand whether the participants found the training useful, (2) understand if they instituted practice changes that resulted from the training, and (3) understand barriers to implementing the skills learned in the training., Methods: Four separate 30-minute virtual training sessions were provided (1 session every 2 weeks). The topics included an introduction to the opioid crisis, screening, assessing, and communicating with patients and with the healthcare team about opioid misuse. A final training manual was distributed after the final training session at which time participants were asked to implement what they learned in the training. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with all training program participants (n = 13) approximately 6 months after the final training session. Rapid content analysis was used to understand the perceptions of and barriers to implementing what the physical therapists learned in the training., Results: Generally, the participants found the training important and useful and strengthened their perceptions of physical therapists' role in screening for opioid misuse. Compared to the opioid misuse-related content of the training, most found it easier to implement general opioid-related content such as asking whether their patients were taking an opioid. Few participants screened any of their patients for opioid misuse. Barriers to implementation included concerns about how the patient might respond to being asked about their opioid use., Conclusion: These findings provide insight into physical therapists' perceptions of an opioid misuse training program and the challenges with implementing what they learned in the program. Future training could incorporate activities such as role-playing to improve participants' comfort with screening for opioid misuse., Competing Interests: Declaration of Conflicting InterestsThe author(s) declared the following potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article: Adam Gordon receives an honorarium for an online chapter on alcohol management in the perioperative period from the UpToDate online reference. He deems this relationship to be not related to the contents of this manuscript.

Introduction: Practice patterns and utilization of physical therapists (PTs) affiliated with Hemophilia Treatment Centers (HTCs) in the United States (US) are not well known. Aims: Describe utilization, role responsibilities and practice patterns of US HTC PTs. Identify practice patterns specifically focusing on assessment and treatment of pain. Recognize gaps in utilization and role responsibilities of PTs as part of the multidisciplinary team and suggest guidelines for PT involvement within the HTC. Methods: Respondents were a subset of a convenience sample of healthcare providers who responded to a non‐validated survey developed by a multi‐disciplinary panel of haemophilia experts. Results: A 33.0% response‐rate (n = 59) representing all regions of US HTCs was achieved. Those working ≥10 hours per week were more likely to provide nutrition education (P =.026) and surgical options education (P <.001). Those who billed insurance for their services during comprehensive visits were more likely to provide education regarding surgical options (P =.046). The majority of PTs (95.0%) evaluated pain regardless of time spent in clinic and felt comfortable treating pain. Fifty‐eight percent used a formal pain measurement tool and more likely to use a formal pain measurement tool if billing insurance (P =.004). Top five non‐pharmacologic treatments recommended for pain management included splints/braces (84.8%), aquatic therapy (74.6%), orthotics (71.2%), surgical options (47.5%) and yoga (32.2%). Conclusions: This study demonstrated PT utilization across HTC centres varies widely. Gaps in care may be addressed through salary support, funded education, greater regional/national collaboration of PTs specializing in bleeding disorders and advocacy for insurance coverage for appropriate services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare (1) the effects of the instrument-assisted perineal stretching technique with different application protocols in combination with perineal massage and (2) the effects of the isolated techniques on the extensibility and strength of the pelvic floor muscles (PFMs). Methods: A randomized controlled clinical trial with parallel randomization, assessor blinding, and concealed allocation was conducted in the Campus Physical Education at the Federal University of Uberlândia in Brazil. Ninety-six pregnant women (18–40 years of age) were allocated into 4 groups: perineal massage (PnM) group (PnM protocol for 10 minutes); instrument-assisted perineal stretching with a long static protocol for 15 minutes [IStrLS group]); PnM + IStrLS group (both techniques applied in the 2 previous groups); and PnM + IStrSR group (the same techniques as used in the PnM + IStrLS group but with a short repeated protocol; 4 sets lasting 30 seconds each). Eight interventions were performed in all 4 groups twice weekly (beginning at the 34th gestational week). The primary outcome was PFM extensibility, assessed using vaginal dilator circumference, and the secondary outcome was PFM strength, assessed using vaginal manometry. Results: For the PFM extensibility variable, a significant main effect of time (F2,88 = 87.951) and group (F3,88 = 7.193) was found. Tukey post hoc test results showed that the PnM + IStrSR group presented greater extensibility than the PnM and IStrLS groups. The PnM group showed increased PFM strength after 8 sessions compared with the other groups. Conclusions: Women who were pregnant and received the combination of perineal massage and instrument-assisted perineal stretching with short repeated application had a greater increase in PFM extensibility than perineal massage and instrument-assisted perineal stretching alone. Impact: The combination of perineal massage and instrument-assisted perineal stretching techniques with a short, repeated protocol led to better PFM extensibility results than the application of the techniques alone in women who were pregnant. Lay summary: Pregnant women can benefit from intervention using the combination of perineal massage and instrument-assisted perineal stretching techniques with a short, repeated protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patient engagement in decisions regarding their health care may lead to improved outcomes and improved adherence to treatment plans. While there are several options for involving patients in their health care, goal setting is a readily accessible method for physical therapists to increase the involvement of patients in health care decisions. Physical therapy goals are often generated by health care providers based on subjective information or standardized, fixed-item, patient-reported outcome measures. However, these outcome measures may not fully reveal the activity and participation limitations of individual patients. Goal attainment scaling (GAS) is a patient-centered approach that allows patients to set meaningful goals. While GAS has been shown to be reliable, valid, and sensitive to change in various populations, there is limited evidence in the United States on utilizing GAS in physical therapy for patients with chronic low back pain (LBP). Objective: The purpose of this paper is to describe the protocol for a study to (1) develop a way to apply GAS procedures for physical therapists treating patients with chronic LBP in the United States and (2) test the feasibility of applying GAS procedures for chronic LBP in an outpatient physical therapy setting. Methods: This study used a mixed methods design with 2 phases: qualitative and quantitative. The qualitative phase of the study employed focus groups of patients with chronic LBP to identify an inventory of goals that were important and measurable. A series of prompts was developed from this inventory to assist physical therapists in collaboratively establishing goals with patients in a clinical setting. The quantitative phase of the study pilot-tested the inventory developed in the qualitative phase in patients with chronic LBP to determine feasibility, reliability, validity, and responsiveness. We also plan to compare how well GAS reveals change over time relative to traditional, fixed-item, patient-reported measures. Results: Phase 1 data collection was completed in June 2020, while data collection for phase 2 was performed between March 2021 and December 2021. We anticipate that this study will demonstrate that GAS can be implemented successfully by outpatient physical therapists, and that it will demonstrate clinically important changes in patients with chronic LBP. Conclusions: GAS represents an opportunity for patient-centered care in the physical therapy management of chronic LBP. While GAS is not new, it has never been studied in real-world physical therapy for chronic LBP in a clinical setting. Due to unique time and productivity constraints, for GAS to be successfully implemented in this environment, we must demonstrate that clinicians can be trained efficiently and reliably, that GAS can be implemented in a clinical setting in under 15 minutes, and that GAS is able to detect clinically meaningful changes in patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To find out the attitude of physiotherapists towards their profession and to assess the quality of professionalism in physiotherapists. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Private and government physiotherapy setups in Lahore, Pakistan, from Oct 2019 to Dec 2019. Methodology: 312 physical therapists were recruited in the study. A modified standard questionnaire by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) was used for the data collection. Data were analyzed by using SPSS 22.0. Results: In the current study, 312 participants were included, out of which 54.2% were male physical therapists and 45.8% were female physical therapists. Their mean age was 26.27 ± 2.15 years. The average professionalism score was 270.56 ± 22.27. Quality of professionalism, measured in physical therapists was 5 (1.60%), 14 (4.5%), 106 (34%), 148 (47.44%), and 39 (12.50%) as poor, fair, good, and excellent professionalism, respectively. Conclusion: The majority of physical therapists showed a borderline positive attitude and very few had a negative attitude towards professionalism. Moreover, good quality of professionalism was observed prominently in most of the physiotherapists, whereas, minority of them portrayed bad and poor professionalism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Supervised exercise may improve physical function and quality of life during oncological treatment. Providing supervised exercise to all patients at hospitals may be impractical, with community-based settings (e.g. public gyms) as a possible alternative. To facilitate implementation, knowledge about the experiences of professionals who deliver exercise programs in community-based settings is crucial. Objective: To explore how physical therapists and personal trainers experience supervising exercise in a community-based setting for persons undergoing curative oncological treatment. Methods: Nine physical therapists and two personal trainers (coaches) were interviewed individually. The semi-structured interviews lasted 33–67 minutes and were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Two main themes emerged: "A meaningful task" and "A challenging task," with nine sub-themes. The coaches experienced supervising exercise for persons undergoing treatment as meaningful, as they became a link between oncology care and health promotion. They grew more confident in the role and ascertained that exercising during treatment was feasible. Challenges included managing side effects of treatment and contradictory information from oncology care staff at hospitals, advising patients not to exercise. Conclusion: Supervising exercise for persons undergoing oncological treatment in a community-based setting may be highly rewarding for professionals who deliver exercise programs, which is promising for implementation. However, patients receive contradictory information about exercise, which may prevent physical activity. Also, supervising exercise for persons undergoing oncological treatment requires skills training; this is suggested for inclusion in educational programs for physical therapists and others. Future research should focus on strategies for cooperation between oncology care and health promotion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Rigakuryoho Kagaku is the property of International Press Editing Center Incorporation and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

BACKGROUND: Physiotherapists (PTs) play an important role in the well-being and physical rehabilitation of patients with long term health problems. It is important that PTs follow recommended practices that minimize the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection in providing Outpatient Physiotherapy services. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge of COVID-19 among the PTs and evaluate the state of implementation of best practices in Outpatient Physiotherapy to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infections during the ongoing pandemic. METHODS: A self-administered online questionnaire consisting of three sections, including section one on demographic information, section two on evaluating knowledge about SARS-CoV-2 and section three on implementing best practices as a survey tool for collecting data from PTs working in Lahore and Faisalabad in Punjab, Pakistan. RESULTS: A total of 216 completed surveys were received. Correct responses to different questions devised to test the participants' knowledge of SARS-CoV-2 varied from 58.3% to 99%. The implementation of best practices to prevent the infection transmission in the Outpatient Physiotherapy ranged from 22.7% to 92.1% for different domains. The age of the PTs and OPD setting were associated significantly with the PTs' knowledge of COVID-19 and also with the state of implementation of recommended practices to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infections in the Outpatient Physiotherapy (p <.05). CONCLUSION: The majority of the PTs, particularly those working in the clinic setting, possessed a good knowledge of COVID-19 and implemented best practices in their Outpatient Physiotherapy at a good level. However, efforts should be directed towards further improving the knowledge of PTs and ensuring implementation of best practices in Outpatient Physiotherapy, particularly in government and private hospitals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction/Objectives: This study aimed to clarify what primary care physicians (PCPs) in Japan understand of the role of physical therapists (PTs) through the experience of working with PTs in hospitals, and what roles PCPs expect for PTs in future primary care. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted individually with 9 purposively sampled PCPs with sufficient experience of collaboration with PTs. Interview data were analyzed by theme analysis focusing on "What does the PCP understand about the role of PTs through the experience of working with PTs in hospitals?" and "What roles and purposes does the PCP wish for PTs in primary care settings?" Results: PCPs viewed PTs as providers of rehabilitation in the traditional medical model, and understood their role as an occupation having a mono-causal viewpoint, namely a specific and well-defined outcome for individual patients, and intervening with patients within a short clinical course with the aim of improvement or maintenance of the patient's condition. With regard to future primary care, PCPs expected that PTs would interpret various factors related to patient lives from the viewpoint of causal interactions; become important stakeholders in the community; and respond flexibly to patients and the environmental factors around them with continued support to the individual. Conclusions: PCPs understood the role of PTs in hospitals as "Rehabilitation in the traditional medical model," and expected the future role of PTs in primary care as "Rehabilitation in integrated community care.". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]