Consideration of exercise-induced oxygen desaturation during the 6-min walk test in ex-smokers without airflow limitation

Abstract

Factors including good physiotherapist interpersonal and communication skills, good patient education and selfmanagement advice, individualised and patient-centred care, a high level of physiotherapist knowledge, experiences and skills and positive organisational and environmental factors were perceived as important facilitators of a good patient–physiotherapist interaction by both patients and physiotherapists respectively. Patientswere generally dissatisfied when any of these key components were lacking from the interaction process. Conclusion(s): This systematic-review indicates that the quality of the patient–physiotherapist interaction is important regarding the outcome of musculoskeletal physiotherapy. By acknowledging the various facilitators and barriers to a good patient–therapist interaction, physiotherapists may enhance the therapeutic-interaction/relationship. Future research trials inmusculoskeletal pain should facilitate a good-therapist interaction and investigate its effects on pain and disability when added to other physiotherapy interventions. Implications: Physiotherapists in clinical practice should harness the non-specific effects of treatment to increase the effectiveness of interventions they deliver to patients.