Patterns of video-based motion analysis use among sports physical therapists

Abstract

ObjectiveExamine video-based motion analysis (VBMA) use among sports physical therapists. DesignCross-sectional observation. SettingSurvey, online-platform. ParticipantsAmerican Academy of Sports Physical Therapy members (n = 261). Main Outcome MeasuresVBMA use frequency, reasons for use, facilitators/barriers, tools used, factors associated with use. Results194 (74.3%) used VBMA but 163 (84%) use it for ≤ 25% of their caseload. Most (57.7%) used their personal device to capture VBMA. Commonly cited reasons for use were movement analysis (93.8%) and patient education (87.6%). Barriers to use included time (30.7%), unfamiliarity with device/equipment (19.2%), and lack of device/equipment (18.4%). Younger age, advanced training, and greater time spent with return patients were each associated with use. For every 5-year increase of age, there was a 12% reduced likelihood of VBMA use (OR = 0.88; 95% CI = 0.77–1.00). Board-certified sports clinical specialists were more likely to use vs. those without additional certifications/degrees (OR = 3.27; 95% CI = 1.33–8.02). Spending 30–59 (vs. <30) minutes with return patients increased the odds of use (ORs range: 2.71 to 3.85). ConclusionMost respondents used VBMA, albeit infrequently. Those younger, with advanced training, and spending ≥30 min with return patients were more likely to use VBMA. Future research should investigate whether VBMA use enhances patient outcomes.