Field Of Physiotherapy Research Articles

Navigating Mpox: Call for the Development of Guidelines for Safe and Effective Physiotherapy Practices

I am writing to highlight the need for consensus-based guidelines addressing mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) in the field of physiotherapy. The recent declaration of a public health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO) due to the rapid spread of mpox [1] emphasizes the necessity for clear protocols to protect patients and healthcare providers.

CONTRIBUIÇÕES DA FISIOTERAPIA AQUÁTICA: REABILITAÇÃO EM PACIENTES COM LESÃO MEDULAR ESPINHAL TRAUMÁTICA

Aquatic Physical Therapy (APT) has been reported as applicable in various specialties within the physiotherapy field, culminating in rehabilitation procedures, especially after Spinal Cord Injury (SCI), with beneficial results for individuals with this condition. It tends to be more effective in restoring some or all movement, initially with plegia, presenting a decrease and even absence of strength and balance post-trauma in the vertebral column region, leading to spinal cord injury. The aquatic environment provides the patient with a bombardment of sensory-motor stimuli, further activating neuroplasticity in rehabilitation, as well as reducing pain, providing relaxation of all muscles, and increasing blood supply to the muscles. In addition to being a therapy in a safe environment, an important factor is the reduction of joint impact and improvement in venous return, making it possible to recover movements. Objective: To understand the contributions of aquatic physiotherapy in functional rehabilitation in (SCI). Methodology: Based on bibliographic research, using the electronic databases Bireme, PubMed, and Scielo, with articles published from 2000 onwards. Conclusion: Aquatic physiotherapy and its benefits in health recovery, achieved through the physical properties of water, have been studied since the time of Hippocrates, which, combined with physiotherapy treatment protocols, promote better functional rehabilitation for patients with (SCI).

THE ESSENTIAL ROLE OF PHYSIOTHERAPY IN PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL

The role of physiotherapists in professional football is critical for both the physical recovery of athletes and the implementation of strategies that promote injury prevention and enhance performance. With a comprehensive understanding of biomechanics and movement principles, physiotherapists can assess players’ performance and work closely with coaching staff to devise effective game tactics. Their expertise enables them to identify movement patterns and areas of stress that can lead to injuries, ultimately helping to minimize these risks. Education plays a vital part in the physiotherapist's responsibilities, as they teach athletes about health maintenance and the significance of injury prevention. This educational component is essential for ensuring that players can sustain a long and successful sports career. Despite progress in prevention and rehabilitation practices, studies reveal persistent gaps between clinical practice and scientific evidence. Increased regulation of the profession, coupled with a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates psychological support, emphasizes the growing importance of physiotherapy within football. Moreover, recognizing the psychological factors that influence recovery and utilizing evidence-based protocols are vital for optimizing rehabilitation outcomes. The physiotherapist’s influence extends beyond physical recovery; they are integral in fostering the overall health and well-being of athletes, which significantly impacts team performance. Moving forward, the field of physiotherapy in football must prioritize continuous professional development, the adoption of innovative practices, and the establishment of an environment that values both the physical and mental health of players.

Process of Reliability of the Ventilatory Workload Kinetic Index and Prioritization in the Intrahospital Clinical Setting

Background and Objectives: The Ventilatory Workload Kinetic Index (VWKI) has been proposed as a clinical instrument to evaluate ventilatory balance–imbalance. However, the regulated application of scales that allow an integral evaluation of the object of study and their subsequent reliability evaluation should be continuous. The objective was to determine the reliability of the VWKI between two evaluators and its applicability in the clinical field of physiotherapy. Materials and Methods: The methodology was divided into three stages: (i) induction period, (ii) application of the VWKI, and (iii) assessment of reliability. Results: The VWKI total score obtained excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.913, p < 0.05). The airway resistance (AR) showed moderate inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.528, p < 0.05), while the use of accessory musculature (UAM) showed poor inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.483, p < 0.05). In the physiotherapy care prioritization system, for both evaluator A (EA) and evaluator B (EB), the total VWKI score was significantly higher in priority 1 (p = 0.001; p < 0.05, respectively). Regarding the total VWKI score by services, it was observed that both EA and EB rated the VWKI significantly higher in the intensive care unit (ICU) than in medicine and the other services (p = 0.001, p = 0.0001 and p < 0.05, p < 0.05, respectively). Conclusions: VWKI is highly reliable in the total score. It is also consistent with the system of prioritization of physiotherapy care and the ability to determine the severity of clinical respiratory symptoms.

Identification of Learning Styles of Undergraduate Physiotherapy Male and Female Students

Abstract Background: The concept of learning styles pertains to the different ways in which individuals organize and interpret information. Numerous factors influence an individual’s learning style. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the most popular learning styles of male and female physiotherapy students. Materials and Methods: A total of 181 participants were selected via a stratified random sampling method based on specific inclusion criteria. Of these, 71 were male and 110 were females. The VARK learning style questionnaire was employed to assess their learning styles, and the data were analyzed using statistical variables such as mean and percentage. Results: The results indicated that 91.5% of male participants preferred bimodal learning styles, with the most popular learning style among them being kinesthetic, chosen by 53.8%. Among female participants, 83.6% preferred unimodal learning styles, while 7.27% preferred bimodal learning styles. Their most favored learning style was also kinesthetic, chosen by 61.38% of female participants. Conclusion: The study identified that both male and female physiotherapy students mostly preferred the kinesthetic learning styles, thereby indicating a similarity in learning styles between them. These findings could be useful for educators in the field of physiotherapy by helping them design learning materials that cater to the most popular learning styles of their students.

Model Terapi Latihan Pasca Cedera Ankle pada Atlet Taekwondo Klub KBTC

This research aims to create and develop a form of exercise therapy after ankle injury that can help recovery. Activities that have been carried out using the RND method will produce a product in the form of a model of exercise therapy after ankle injury. Subjects who were targeted in research on the development of post-injury exercise therapy models for KBTC club taekwondo athletes. Of the ten steps of Sugiyono's research model, this research only reaches the sixth stage, namely: (1) potential and problems, (2) data collection, (3) initial product design, (4) design validation, (5) design revision, (6) Product trial. The results of this action research will produce a complete exercise therapy design product that is more specific to the sport of taekwondo.In this study, researchers collaborated with experts in the field of physiotherapy, experts in injury management as expert judgment. The validation test used in this study used an expert justification test, where the exercise therapy model after ankle injury used 14 validated models.This post-ankle injury exercise therapy model can also be used as reference material for other researchers in post-ankle injury exercise therapy in KBTC club athletes. The results of this research can be concluded that after going through validation tests with expert justification, 14 models of post-ankle injury training therapy models were produced for KBTC club taekwondo athletes.

System–informational representation of the problem of complex physiotherapy

Objective. To highlight the systemic information representation of the problem of complex physical therapy (CPT) in the practice of KNIIKiVL with the determination of the treatment and rehabilitation potential of the CPT carried out in it. The Kyrgyz Scientific Research Institute of Balneology and Rehabilitation Treatment (KSRIBRT) is the main institution of balneology, physiotherapy and medical rehabilitation in the Kyrgyz Republic, whose main tasks are to carry out fundamental and applied scientific research in the relevant field, as well as to provide specialized physiotherapy and rehabilitation assistance to the population. It should be noted that one of the main functions of the KSRIBRT is to make proposals on the formation of state policy in the field of balneology, physiotherapy and medical rehabilitation. In this regard, the institution has its own 65‑year history, an established tradition, a verified style of scientific and practical activity, a great potential for comprehensive rehabilitation treatment, and an appropriate staff. In the context of the fact that physiotherapeutic rehabilitation is adopted by the strategy of the XXI century, it is necessary to ensure that the rehabilitation goal and objectives of the KSRIBRT should become planned, specific, measurable, realistically achievable, determined in time. To do this, it was first necessary to have a general understanding of the evidence-based effectiveness of complex physiotherapy (CPT) in patients with polypathies (PP).

A review of the role for pelvic floor physiotherapy in postmenopausal women with urinary incontinence.

Urinary incontinence is a prevalent condition affecting women. Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized field of physiotherapy dedicated to assessing and treating pelvic floor muscles. This therapy has demonstrated benefits in addressing stress urinary incontinence in premenopausal women, with numerous studies supporting its efficacy in this population. However, pelvic floor physiotherapy in the treatment of postmenopausal women is less well-established, and furthermore, the types of urinary incontinence in postmenopausal women are much broader. We provide a comprehensive review of recent literature investigating the effectiveness of pelvic floor physiotherapy therapy for various conditions in postmenopausal women, including urinary incontinence, urgency urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, genitourinary syndrome of menopause, sexual dysfunction, and urinary incontinence in the context of obesity, frailty, mobility, and dementia. After evaluating the current literature, it is evident that there is insufficient data to definitively endorse or dismiss the utilization of Pelvic floor physiotherapy for treating urinary incontinence in postmenopausal women. Nevertheless, considering the low associated risks of pelvic floor physiotherapy, we advocate for the initiation of comprehensive, large-scale randomized studies aimed at evaluating its effectiveness in addressing urinary incontinence in postmenopausal women with special attention to vulnerable subgroups, including individuals who are obese, frail or experiencing cognitive impairment.

Awareness and Knowledge of Physiotherapy as a Career Option among High School Students: A Survey Study

Background: Physiotherapy is one of the oldest components of the closely integrated group of allied health professionals. The period of Pre-adulthood lays down the stepping stone of their career for many because of the decisions. Information about various occupations and professions is an important factor when making one’s future choice. Understanding students' Awareness and knowledge of Physiotherapy is essential for informing interventions aimed at promoting informed career decision-making among youth. Aim and Objectives: To determine the extent to which high school students are aware of the field of Physiotherapy, and to determine the percentage of students considering pursuing a career in Physiotherapy. Methodology: Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 150 high school students were selected using Convenience Sampling. The self-administered questionnaire was used as an outcome measure. Data was analyzed by entering data into SPSS version 26 and descriptive analysis was done with the help of pie charts and bar diagrams. Results and Conclusion: The results of the Study revealed that 46% of Students were Familiar with Physiotherapy. The Percentage of Students who considered Physiotherapy as a Career Option in the Medical field were 82% but, 63.3% were not aware of the eligibility criteria or entering a Physiotherapy degree program. However, 79.3% agreed that Physiotherapy is effective in reducing Pain. In summary, this study has highlighted the limited Awareness and knowledge of Physiotherapy as a career option among high school students in Fatehgarh Sahib District. Keywords: High School, Students, Physiotherapy, Awareness, Career Option

A conceptual model for program-level assessment

ABSTRACT Program-level assessment is a holistic approach for arranging assessments throughout a degree program that supports sequential development of discipline knowledge, transferable skills and career readiness. Currently, the modular arrangement of courses means that student learning is partial, limited to passing the assessment and compartmentalized into independent course learning outcomes. In effect, the current practices prevent students developing broader educational attributes that are essential for future employment opportunities. Interviews were conducted with 18 academics, Associate Deans and Program Directors, from seven Australian universities in the fields of dietetics, physiotherapy and science disciplines in order to develop a conceptual model to guide program-level assessment. The proposed conceptual model is designed to support academics’ assessment practices, enhance the quality of universities’ programs and provides students with a more coherent assessment experience.

Awareness, Knowledge and Attitude About Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality in Physiotherapy Practice among Physiotherapists

Abstract Background: The rationale for the use of Virtual Reality an Augmented Reality in rehabilitation is based on a number of unique attributes of this technology like opportunity for experiential, active learning that encourages and motivates the participant, ability of therapists to objectively measure behavior in challenging but safe and ecologically valid environments, while maintaining strict experimental control over delivery of the stimulus. A promising future requires the continued development and use of new, innovative technologies like Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality that will transform existing practices. To ensure the long- term use of such systems, it is imperative to understand the perspectives of healthcare providers in the implementation of Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality technologies. Method: An observational cross- sectional study was done. A total of 102 physiotherapists from various fields and of different age groups and experience were included. A self- made questionnaire of 3 sections was administered to the physiotherapists using google forms. Results: it was found that 82.4% physiotherapists knew that virtual reality and augmented reality have applications in healthcare whereas only 46.1% knew about its applications in complex musculoskeletal disorders. 90.2% think that virtual reality and augmented reality should be widely applied in clinical practice. Conclusion: In conclusion, many of the participants were not aware about extent of Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality rehabilitation in different fields across physical therapy. Most of the participants knew about its application in the neuro physiotherapy field. More awareness needs to be spread on the widespread implementations of these technologies in the field of rehabilitation. Most of the participants have a positive attitude towards application of Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality clinically.

Knowledge, Attitudes and Beliefs of Clinical Physiotherapists Towards Chronic Back Pain

Background: Millions of people worldwide suffer from the common and severe ailment known as chronic low back pain. Effective management of this condition involves not only information but also positive attitudes and beliefs on the part of healthcare practitioners. Clinical physiotherapists play an important role in the treatment of individuals suffering from persistent low back pain. The purpose of this study was to investigate clinical physiotherapists' knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about chronic low back pain. Methods: The study included 98 clinical physiotherapists, representing a diverse population in terms of gender and age in Hayatabad Peshawar. The HC-PAIRS (healthcare providers pain and impairment ratio scale) were filled from the clinical physiotherapists for assessing their Attitudes and beliefs towards chronic low back pain. The NPQ were also filled for checking the knowledge of clinical physiotherapist about chronic low back pain. Results: The average knowledge score of the clinical physiotherapists in the study was 7.7959, showing a relatively good degree of understanding of chronic low back pain. A wide range of knowledge scores, ranging from 2.00 to 12.00, revealed significant heterogeneity. Surprisingly, the study found unfavorable attitudes and beliefs among clinical physiotherapists, with higher scores suggesting stronger agreement that persistent low back pain warrants disability and activity restriction. Conclusion: Presence of unfavorable attitudes highlights the importance of focused interventions and training programs to improve patient care in this environment. The study emphasizes the changing nature of healthcare practice, with personal experiences, exposure to diverse treatment techniques, and evolving viewpoints within the field of physiotherapy possibly influencing attitudes and beliefs.

Identifying central elements of the therapeutic alliance in the setting of telerehabilitation: A qualitative study.

Therapeutic alliance is a relevant aspect of healthcare and may influence patient outcomes. So far, little is known about the therapeutic alliance in telerehabilitation. To identify and describe central elements of therapeutic alliance in the setting of telerehabilitation and compare it to those in conventional rehabilitation. In this qualitative study, a literature search and in-depth semi-structured interviews with rehabilitation and telerehabilitation experts were conducted from 15.5.-10.8.2020 on elements influencing the therapeutic alliance in rehabilitation and telerehabilitation. Using a combined deductive and inductive approach, qualitative content analysis was used to identify categories and derive central themes. The elements bond, communication, agreement on goals and tasks and external factors were identified in the literature search and informed the development of the interview guide. Twelve purposively sampled experts from the fields of physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, psychology, general medicine, sports science and telerehabilitation software development participated in the interviews. We identified three central themes: building effective communication; nurturing a mutual relationship of trust and respect; and agreement on goals and tasks and drivers of motivation. In this qualitative study, key elements of therapeutic alliance in rehabilitation confirmed those reported in the literature, with additional elements in telerehabilitation comprising support from others for ensuring physical safety and technical connectedness, caregivers acting as co-therapists and applying professional touch, and promoting patient autonomy and motivation using specific strategies.

Koronavirüs Pandemisi Sırasında Görev Yapan Fizyoterapistlerin Pandemiye İlişkin Bilgi, Farkındalık ve Tutumlarının Değerlendirilmesi

Purpose: It was aimed to determine the change in the knowledge, attitudes, and awareness of physiotherapists working in the field of cardiopulmonary physiotherapy and rehabilitation (PWCPR), and to investigate the burnout level of PWCPR and physiotherapists working in the other fields (PWOF).
 Methods: The demographic and occupational information of the participants were recorded. The Knowledge, Awareness and Attitude Questionnaire, which was designed specifically for research, was administered only to PWCPR group, and The Turkish Adaptation of The Burnout Measure-Short Version (TA-BMS) was administered to all participants online via Google Forms. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 11.5 program. Significance level was measured to p

Assessment of Professionalism, Attitudes, and Behaviors in Practicing Physical Therapy

Background: The field of physiotherapy plays a crucial role within the healthcare landscape, particularly in the context of modern medical and surgical practices. Professional behavior, attitudes, and values are fundamental to the practice, influencing patient care and interprofessional collaboration. Recent studies have highlighted a need for continuous evaluation and improvement in these areas to enhance the overall quality of physiotherapy services. Objective: This study aimed to assess the current state of professionalism, attitudes, and behaviors among practicing physical therapists, identifying strengths and areas for development to inform future educational and professional development initiatives. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 120 physical therapists in Lahore, utilizing convenient sampling. The Professional Behavior Continuum, a self-reflective tool, was employed to evaluate professional behaviors in various clinical settings. Data were collected through questionnaires, including a consent form to ensure confidentiality. The analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, focusing on descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentage to quantify the extent of core professional values among participants. Results: The majority of participants were aged between 26-30 years (45%), predominantly male (70%), and had 1-5 years of work experience (65%). The study revealed positive perceptions of integrity (60% honesty, 65% personal responsibility), respect (65% confidentiality, 70% diversity), responsibility (75% punctual for learning, 60% cope with challenges), competence (80% responsibility for learning, 70% self-reflection), maturity (80% professional dress/language, 70% emotional stability), and communication (80% respectful, 70% empathy/compassion) among physical therapists. Conclusion: The findings indicate a generally positive outlook on professional behaviors, attitudes, and values among physical therapists, with notable strengths in areas such as responsibility, competence, and communication. However, the study also suggests the need for ongoing professional development and education to address areas of improvement and ensure the highest standards of patient care and professional practice.

Effectiveness of Maitland Manual Therapy Approach Mobilization with Aerobic Exercise in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain

Background: Low back pain is the most common type of musculoskeletal pain and various treatments are given totreat it. Mobilization and aerobic exercise has very good effect in relieving pain and disability. This study focusesto evaluate the combined effect of mobilization and aerobic exercise program in patient with chronic LBP.Methods: The study designed used was a pretest and post test experimental study. Samples are taken withconvenient sample method. N=10 with a duration of 12 weeks. Posterioanterior mobilization and high intensityexercises where given and data’s were calculated and the results were obtained by two outcome tools –VAS andOSW questionnaire. the data colected from (12/01/2023 to 10/03/2023) with gardern city university physiotherapyout patient department.Results: The pre test mean value of VAS is 7.1 and the post test mean value is 5.8.The mean difference of pre testand post test value of VAS measurement is 1.9.The pre test mean value of OSW questionnaire is 41% and the posttest mean value is 21%. The mean difference of pre test and post test value of OSW questionnaire is 20%.Conclusion: Maitland mobilization with high intensity aerobic exercise was effective in reducing pain anddisability and also in the improvement of range of motion for low back pain. This study can be used as treatmentprotocol in the field of physiotherapy to treat the patient with chronic low back pain.

Revolutionizing Rehabilitation: Exploring the Integration of AI-Based Technology in Advancing Physiotherapy Practices for Enhanced Patient Outcomes

The field of physiotherapy has witnessed a transformative shift with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based technologies. This research paper delves into the revolutionary impact of AI in advancing physiotherapy practices, focusing on enhancing patient outcomes. By exploring recent developments, applications, and challenges, this study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the evolving landscape where technology intersects with rehabilitation. Through a mixed-methods approach, including a literature review, case studies, and interviews, the research analyzes the effectiveness of personalized treatment plans, real-time monitoring, and AI-driven decision support for physiotherapists. The findings reveal significant improvements in patient-reported outcomes, functional metrics, and treatment adherence, supported by positive physiotherapist experiences. Ethical considerations and challenges are discussed, emphasizing the potential of AI to revolutionize physiotherapy and shape the future of rehabilitative care.

Development and Content Validation of Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome Index (IBFS-I)

Introduction: Activity-related lateral knee discomfort is a common symptom of Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome (ITBFS), a condition characterised by excessive friction between the iliotibial band and the lateral femoral condyle. Literature indicates that ITBFS is highly prevalent in road cyclists, military recruits, and habitual runners respectively. But there is scarcity of readily usable tool to identify the extent of ITBS. This study was designed to develop and validate the content of a scale for ITBFS diagnosis. Aim: To develop and content validate of the developed tool which will help the physiotherapist to asses easier and earlier. Materials and Methods: This study involves expert opinions from seven different physiotherapy experts in an offline mode. Study was done in 3 phases: Phase 1: The extensive literature exploration Phase 2: Development of questionnaire Phase 3: Content validation of the developed questionnaire. The Delphi method was used to validate the content, which involves expert review panel, examining the domain and its items, assigning a score to each item, and computing the scale level content validity index (S-CVI) and item content validity index (I-CVI). It was performed using Delphi method which includes seeking expert opinion from 7 different expert from the field of physiotherapy on an offline mode, selecting expert review panel, reviewing domain and items, providing score to each item and calculating I-CVI (item content validity index) and scale level content validity index (S-CVI). Results: I-CVI was calculated using (I-CVI= agreed item/number of expert) and found to be 0.98 and S-CVI using (S-CVI=sum of I-CVI scores/Number of items) and found to be 0.9. This developed questionnaire is having excellent I-CVI and S-CVI. The physiotherapists may use the IBFS-I scale for the early identification of ITBFS. Conclusion: The IBFS-I scale may help physiotherapists diagnose ITBFS early. This scale may prove to be an effective tool in assisting the therapist in determining the degree of ITBFS in individuals

Connecting the Threads: A Descriptive Review of Social, Cultural and Spiritual Influences on Physiotherapy Practice

In the 21st century, there have been significant indigenous advancements in the field of physiotherapy. However, there still exist certain sociocultural and spiritual beliefs among practitioners. Through meticulous examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and physical intervention, physiotherapists utilise mechanical movements and force to treat impairments and help improve function, mobility, and quality of life. The cultural framework plays a crucial role in how individuals experience health, illness, and disability. Simultaneously, sociocultural factors are pivotal in the physical function, health, and illness of individuals. This paper explores the social, cultural and spiritual influences on physiotherapy across different societal and professional contexts. While there have been several recent studies providing snapshots of advancements in technologies in the healthcare system, there are not as many focusing on these three aspects in the clinical practice of physiotherapists. Due to the different eras in the history of physiotherapy, the present article demonstrates how physiotherapists are influenced by social, cultural, and spiritual domains. It is challenging to generalise the results in every situation and geographical area. Therefore, physiotherapists should be proactive in addressing these healthy beliefs at the grassroots level within the healthcare society. To create a personalised treatment plan, goal-setting, and care plan for the patient, the physiotherapist finds great value in understanding the patient’s sociocultural and spiritual history.

Expanding New Horizons in the Field of Physiotherapy

Expanding New Horizons in the Field of Physiotherapy