KNOWLEDGE AND ADHERENCE TOWARDS EVIDENCE-BASED SPORTS PHYSIOTHERAPY STANDARDS AMONG PHYSIOTHERAPISTS IN KENYA

Abstract

Background: Evidence-based practice (EBP) and evidence-based physiotherapy (EBPT) have been investigated in different physiotherapy clinical settings. However, there has been no research into knowledge and adherence in respect of evidence-based sports physiotherapy standards in Kenya. Objective: To determine the levels of knowledge and adherence towards EB sports physiotherapy standards among physiotherapists in Kenya. Method: A cross-sectional study using quantitative methods and in conjunction with a self-administered questionnaire was conducted in a population of 700 physiotherapists. Results: The response rate was (n=391; 55.9%). Involvement in structured sports physiotherapy practice accounted for (n=129; 32.9%). High levels of EBP knowledge (n=265; 67.8%) were reported. More males (n=185; 73.4%) than females (n=80; 57.5%) presented with high levels of EBP knowledge. Those with specializations (n=65; 83.3%) demonstrated higher levels of EBP knowledge than those without (n=200; 63.9%). Adherence to EBP process steps accounted for (n=143; 36.6%) of the population. More males (n=104; 41.3%) than females (n=39; 28.1%) adhered to the EBP process. Those with specializations (n=48; 61.5%) and those without (n=95; 30.4 %) adhered to the EBP process. Gender, training and specialization were found to have statistically-significant associations with knowledge and adherence (p<0.05). Conclusion: Physiotherapists in Kenya present with high levels of knowledge in EB sports physiotherapy but with lower levels of adherence to the EBP process. Clinical implications: Limited adherence to EBP standards despite high levels of knowledge points to an inferior quality of care for athletes with sports physiotherapy needs. Attention to the limiting factors to adherence may improve the quality of care. KEY WORDS: Evidence-based practice, standards, sports, physiotherapy, survey, Kenya.