Developing a Knowledge Base: Progress so Far

Abstract

Introduction Physiotherapy research is important to the profession, to individual therapists and to patient care. The evolution of the academic discipline of research has been a relatively recent event in the history of the profession in the UK. The current status of physiotherapy research and researchers within the fields of clinical practice, management and education indicates that progress is fragmented. Obstacles to change can be seen in the organisation and structure of physiotherapy practice and education. A realistic review of the profession’s output of clinical research suggests that a more focused and co-ordinated approach is needed. The first step in developing a body of knowledge, relevant to clinical practice, would be the creation of a strategy or plan for the profession.