Current scenario of evidence-based practice and rationale of preferred approach in stroke rehabilitation among physiotherapists in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Context: Evidence-based practice (EBP) is an integral part of stroke rehabilitation, to achieve optimal results by practicing best evidence available in the literature. Aims: A survey was conducted to find the knowledge of EBP and preferred treatment used by the physiotherapists in Saudi Arabia for stroke rehabilitation. Settings and Design: Eminent research scholars and experienced physiotherapists involved in stroke rehabilitation developed an EBP questionnaire containing 35 questions. The survey was intended to explore the current practice of stroke rehabilitation among physiotherapists. Subjects and Methods: Physiotherapists (n = 186) practicing stroke rehabilitation received online questionnaire through e-mail; only 156 complete questionnaires returned (86.2% of response rate). Statistical Analysis Used: Nonparametric tests were used to analyze data obtained from the questionnaire. Results: Physiotherapists preferred Bobath approach (77.7%) for stroke rehabilitation over newer techniques. The survey further shows that the majority of participants (59.6%) were unaware of process and implementation of EBP. Conclusions: Experienced and novice therapists showed a vast degree of variation in treatment approaches. Majority of the therapists preferred Bobath approach over newer techniques.