Profile of Childhood Health Conditions referred to Physiotherapy and Attributing Factors to Disablement

Abstract

Purpose: This study attempted to profile the prevalence of childhood health conditions and the factors that contribute to the disablement process and thus leading to disability among children who visit a tertiary referral hospital in Mysore, India. Method: A mixed methods approach was adopted. Phase 1 of the study delineated the profile of cases being referred for physiotherapy treatment. Cases of Cerebral Palsy were reported to be the highest (46%). Phase 2 of the study identified 4 major themes based on the mothers’ experiences with their children. Result: The findings revealed the need to create awareness among paediatricians about the importance of early intervention in childhood disorders and optimal referral to physiotherapy. The other themes which emerged included various attitudes of family and society, lack of cooperation from school as well as the presence physical barriers in school and community and frustration experienced by caregivers due to lack of help and facilities. Conclusion: There is a need to educate parents and society at large that disability should not be associated with “abnormal”. It is rather an interrelated phenomenon where the health issues of an individual and the outlook of society both play an important part.