Physiotherapy Students Research Articles

The level of skills involved in an observation-based gait analysis.

This study aimed to determine the visual assessment skills during an observation-based gait analysis. Participants (N=40) included 20 physiotherapists (PTs) with>10 years of clinical experience (physiotherapists) and 20 physiotherapy students. Both groups watched a video of the gait of a subject with Guillain-Barré syndrome before and after being provided with information regarding other movements. Further, visual lines were measured using an EMR-8 eye mark recorder, and the results were compared between both groups. The average gaze duration was longer for students than for PTs (F1,79=53.3; p<0.01), whereas PTs gazed more often than the students (F1,79=87.6; p< 0.01). Furthermore, the PTs moved their eyes vertically more often than the students (F1,151=9.1; P< 0.01). We found that being able to discriminate the relative physical relationship of body locations by frequent and rapid vertical gazes could be an indication of the level of skills as an index to express the visual assessment skill in an observation-based gait analysis.

Proficiency and Ethical Standards: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Postgraduate Physical Therapy Students at RCRS, Lahore

Proficiency and Ethical Standards: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Postgraduate Physical Therapy Students at RCRS, Lahore

Strategic Learning Strategies of Doctor of Physical Therapy Students

Introduction. The use of strategic learning strategies has been positively associated with academic performance in several graduate health profession programs. This finding suggests that it may be an important construct to explore in Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) education. The Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI) summarizes a student's perception and use of 10 learning and study strategies. Review of Literature. Although the LASSI has limited reporting in DPT education, other health care education programs have shown correlation with academic performance. The purpose of this study was to examine DPT students' early perceptions of strategic learning with descriptive summaries of LASSI data and examine correlations between demographic and admissions-related data. Subjects. Matriculated DPT students (n = 294) at a 2-year hybrid program who completed the LASSI at orientation in 2020 and 2021. Methods. This was a descriptive study that retrospectively analyzed LASSI scores in entry-level DPT students. LASSI score differences among demographic groups and Spearman's rho correlations between the LASSI, Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, grade point averages, grit, and emotional intelligence (EI) were explored. Results. LASSI score means were in the 50th–75th percentile (moderate category) suggesting a need for further development in strategic learning. Group differences in LASSI scores were noted for gender identity (male higher Anxiety management, P &lt; .001; female higher Attitude, P &lt; .001, Time Management, P = .003, and Use of Academic Resources, P = .003), racial–ethnic minoritized group (higher Self-regulation, P = .013), first-generation college students (higher Attitude, P = .047), physical therapy assistants (higher Information Processing, P = .047), students with a primary language other than English (higher Time Management, P = .046), and older students (higher Anxiety management, P = .026). Weak but significant correlations were identified between LASSI scale and component scores and several admissions variables. Highest correlations were with grit (Will, ρ = 0.319, P &lt; .001; Concentration, ρ = 0.312, P &lt; .001), EI (Will, ρ = 0.328, P &lt; .001; Attitude, ρ = 0.302, P &lt; .001; Self-regulation, ρ = 0.382, P &lt; .001; Use of Academic Resources ρ = 0.331, P &lt; .001), and quantitative GRE scores (Anxiety management, ρ = 0.341, P &lt; .001). Discussion/Conclusion. All LASSI scale scores and components were in the moderate category, potentially indicating a need to coach and develop strategic learning strategies. Group differences in LASSI scores may represent varied student needs. The weak relationship between LASSI scores and admissions variables could suggest that the constructs measured by LASSI are not currently captured through typical DPT admissions practices.

Examining Information Seeking Patterns: A Comprehensive Analysis of Scientific Paper Evaluation Among Physiotherapy Students

Examining Information Seeking Patterns: A Comprehensive Analysis of Scientific Paper Evaluation Among Physiotherapy Students

The validation and assessment of a curriculum based GAIT App used in teaching bachelor of physiotherapy students: a cross sectional study

IntroductionThere has been an advent in the use of Mobile Apps in the academic space. The pandemic hastened their usage, and forced us to rapidly innovate in order to meet the educational needs of our students. Also, Mobile Apps have been known to facilitate self-learning, make it enjoyable, and personalize the pace of learning of the individual. Given the level of skill-learning in Physiotherapy education, the use of Mobile Apps can pose a challenge, as well as offer an opportunity to explore its scope to enhance learning, and create innovative pedagogic strategies. There are a very few learning mobile apps that have been assessed in Physiotherapy education.AimTo develop, establish content validity and internal consistency of a curriculum based App on the kinesiology of normal Gait for bachelor of physiotherapy students, and to evaluate the App with regards to use, quality, engagement, and overall experience.Materials & methodsIn the first phase, a mobile app based on a bachelor of physiotherapy Gait curriculum was developed and validated using Delphi procedure, with 80% agreement criteria, by a group of experts. Subsequently, the App was rated by 200 users on: engagement, aesthetics, information, subjective quality.ResultsThe content validity index following 2 rounds of Delphi was found to be 0.88. Also, therapists found the App easy to use, and 80% gave it a rating of > 3 stars.ConclusionCreating, designing, implementing, and evaluating the efficacy of a Gait App as a means to teaching the GAIT component to physiotherapy students was found to be appealing and beneficial.

Burnout and resilience among physical therapy students: a cross-sectional study.

This study aimed to examine the prevalence of burnout, determine burnout-related factors, investigate resilience levels, and assess the relationship between burnout and resilience among physical therapy (PT) students at King Saud University (KSU) in Saudi Arabia. This cross-sectional study involved 153 PT students studying at KSU between January and March 2023. The participants completed an online questionnaire, a Maslach Burnout Inventory, and a Brief Resilience Scale. Low-to-moderate levels of Emotional Exhaustion (EE) were observed in 85% of the participants and high Depersonalization (DP) levels were reported by 34.2%. Female participants reported higher levels of EE and DP, whereas males had a greater prevalence of low Personal Achievement (PA) levels. Approximately 6.5% of the study participants reported high burnout levels (a combination of high DP, high EE, and low PA). Academic stress, followed by sleeping difficulties and changes in the academic year structure, were the most important factors contributing to higher levels of burnout (75.2%, 56.9%, and 43.8%, respectively). Most study participants around (66.0%) reported normal resilience levels. A significant correlation was detected between resilience and 2 domains of burnout (DP and PA), with the correlation being negative and weak for DP and positive and moderate for PA. Overall, low-to-moderate levels of burnout were observed among the PT students who took part. Related factors that contributed to burnout were academic stress, sleeping difficulties, and academic year structure. A normal level of resilience was found to be significantly related to DP and PA but not to EE on the burnout subscales. Higher levels of resilience can be considered to play a protective role against burnout among PT students. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2024;75(4):343-354.

Knowledge and Willingness Toward Organ Donation Among DPT Students at Isra University (Hyderabad)

Organ donation (OD) is a complex issue involving social, legal, ethical, and medical aspects. The need for organ transplants has increased due to a rise in disorders linked to poor lifestyle choices; however, awareness and knowledge of organ donation remain extremely low, particularly among medical students. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge and willingness toward organ donation among Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT) students at Isra University in Hyderabad. A cross sectional study was conducted from July to September 2024, using a validated questionnaire and a sample of 100 DPT students selected through stratified random sampling. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 23. Findings revealed that 79% of DPT students were aware of organ donation. Only 12% recognized eyes and 34% identified kidneys for donation. Awareness of Pakistan's organ donation laws was noted in just 54%. Misconceptions were prevalent, with 51% believing that only living individuals could donate. While 38% expressed willingness to donate after death, only 16% would consent to the donation of a deceased family member's organs. The study concluded that significant gaps in knowledge and willingness exist among DPT students, highlighting the need for comprehensive education and awareness campaigns tailored to cultural and religious beliefs.

The Effect of Education on the Knowledge Level, Awareness and Attitudes of Physiotherapy Students’ Towards Organ Donation and Transplantation

The current educational curriculum does not provide physiotherapists with adequate knowledge and skills regarding tissue and organ donation and transplantation. This study aims to investigate whether educational interventions on organ donation and transplantation lead to significant changes in physiotherapy students' knowledge, awareness, and attitudes. The study involved 96 students from the Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation at a state university, with a mean age of 19.61±1.43 years. Data were gathered through face-to-face interviews and evaluated using a socio-demographic information form, the Organ-Tissue Donation and Transplantation Knowledge Scale, and the Organ Donation Attitude Scale. After administering a pre-test, a 60-minute educational session was conducted, followed by a post-test. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in the Organ Donation Knowledge Scale before and after the educational intervention (p=0.0001). Significant differences were also observed in the Organ Donation Attitudes Scale, the Humanity and Moral Conviction sub-dimension, the Fears of Medical Neglect sub-dimension, the Fears of Bodily Mutilation sub-dimension, and the Total Negative Attitudes sub-dimension (p=0.0001). Healthcare professionals play a critical role in informing and guiding people about organ donation for increasing awareness and encouraging positive attitudes. Therefore, providing comprehensive and effective education on organ donation and transplantation to physiotherapists can significantly enhance their ability to improve public knowledge and attitudes towards organ donation.

Validity of the Malay adaptation of the KOOS Patellofemoral Pain and Subscale (KOOS-PF)

Introduction: The Malay version of Knee Orthopaedic Outcome Score-Patellofemoral (KOOS-PF) is unavailable. Aims: This study culturally used the (KOOS-PF) questionnaire for Malaysian Malay-speaking students. Methods: Forward-backwards translation was used to translate the KOOS-PF questionnaire from English to Malay. Malay version psychometric patellofemoral characteristics (construct reliability) were examined using Cronbach's alpha to assess reliability and internal consistency with fifty-five UiTM physiotherapy students. Results: The reliability analysis found that each construct's Cronbach's alpha coefficient was more significant than 0.07, and the p-values were less than 0.001. Conclusion: A reliable and straightforward technique for assessing quality of life among Malaysian physiotherapy students.

Design specifications and capabilities of a 3D simulation software for clinical education of physiotherapy students in the neurology department

IntroductionIn this revolutionized era, thanks to cutting-edge technological breakthroughs like 3-dimensional (3D) computerized environments, physiotherapy trainers can improve their knowledge and confidence by using such training tools. Hence, there is room for developing these technologies for training medical students to expand their skills and expertise. This study aims to identify the design requirements and key functionalities of a 3D simulation software for the clinical education of physiotherapy students in neurology departments.MethodFirst, by carefully reviewing neurological books, scientific articles, curriculum, and medical records, and consulting with experts, a scenario was compiled. In the next step, a researcher-developed questionnaire was designed. Then, experts’ opinions were considered to confirm the validity and reliability of the questionnaire. The designed questionnaire was distributed among several neurological physiotherapists. Finally, the information elements, contents, and functional capabilities of the 3D software were determined by analyzing the data obtained from the questionnaire.FindingsThe main components for the design of physiotherapy educational software were identified based on the findings of the literature review, curriculum analysis, and medical record review. A survey of physiotherapy professors was conducted using a questionnaire created by the researcher in order to enhance the capabilities of simulation software and ascertain its primary functions. Following an analysis of the data from the distributed questionnaire, 37 essential features and contents have been proven to be more crucial than the rest for the creation of 3D simulation software. As a result, the essential and fundamental needs for the patient’s training in reading their medical records and performing muscle strength assessments were recognized and extracted. Based on these findings, a researcher-developed scenario for the various real cases was then established. In the patient’s medical record reading scenario, the student is required to read the patient’s record in text format. Similarly, in the section on cranial nerves, pictures are utilised to reinforce the student’s assessment skills in addition to textual content. Together with the audio and pop-up texts, the simulated 3D environment also offers training for the assessment of muscle strength.ConclusionAs an educational tool, this software can enhance students’ learning and assist in addressing the drawbacks of conventional teaching methods like lectures and hospital visits.

Self-Efficacy of Physical Therapist Student Outcomes (SEPTSO): longitudinal responsiveness over a three-year curriculum.

Understanding the relationship between self-efficacy and academic and clinical education outcomes may improve professional physical therapist education. To document the longitudinal responsiveness of Self-Efficacy of Physical Therapist Student Outcomes (SEPTSO) scores from a single cohort throughout a three-year professional physical therapist curriculum and also to explore relationships between SEPTSO, grade point average (GPA), clinical education outcomes, and first-time pass rate on the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). Thirty-five Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students participated. The SEPTSO was administered electronically during semesters one and nine. The final GPA, Physical Therapist Manual for the Assessment of Clinical Skills (PT MACS), and NPTE outcomes were recorded. There was a significant increase in SEPTSO scores from semester 1 to 9 (t(16) = 34.55, p < .01, Cohen's d = 9.79, n = 17). In semester 1 (n = 35), there were no significant associations between SEPTSO scores and GPA (r = .011, p = .949), PT MACS outcomes (r = .092, p = .867), or first-time NPTE pass rate (rs = -0.088, p = .634). Longitudinal responsiveness of the SEPTSO in a three-year DPT curriculum was demonstrated. There were no associations between SEPTSO scores and other outcome measures.

Teaching Methodologies of Gross Anatomy Education for Undergraduate Physiotherapy Students: An Updated Scoping Review

Gross anatomy provides essential knowledge about the structure and function of the human body. Understanding human anatomy requires specific skills from physiotherapy students to comprehend and memorize the location and relationships of anatomical structures. This review aims to summarize the current evidence on teaching methodologies in anatomy education for undergraduate physiotherapy students. A scoping review was conducted consulting the PubMed, EBSCO, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases. By analyzing ten studies involving over 1380 students, we identified four primary pedagogical approaches: the use of technological tools, combined traditional methods (such as dissections and radiological imaging), interprofessional education, and the innovative use of animal dissections. The findings highlight that hands-on, practical activities, especially those integrating technology (e.g., virtual reality and interactive quizzes), significantly enhance student engagement and knowledge retention. Collaborative learning through interprofessional education was found to foster a deeper understanding of anatomical concepts and improve teamwork skills, which are crucial for clinical practice. Additionally, the inclusion of traditional methods like dissections and radiological imaging, when paired with modern tools, offers a comprehensive approach that bridges theoretical knowledge with practical application. The use of animal dissections also emerged as an innovative strategy to enhance anatomical comprehension. In conclusion, the literature underscores the importance of adopting diverse and innovative teaching strategies in gross anatomy education for physiotherapy students. Such approaches not only enrich the learning experience but also ensure that students are well prepared for the demands of professional practice.

La thérapie fonctionnelle cognitive dans la prise en charge de la lombalgie chronique non spécifique

IntroductionNon-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) is a condition that accounts for almost one-third of patients treated by physical therapists. Although only one in ten low back pain patients suffers from NSCLBP, it represents up to 80 % of healthcare costs for this disease. NSCLBP is the leading cause of work absenteeism, and healthcare costs have tripled over the past 40 years. Many therapies and techniques are being developed and studied, including Cognitive Functional Therapy (CFT), which provides a new approach based on a precise assessment and awareness of all dimensions of the condition.The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of CFT among physical therapists and to identify the determinants of its importance in their practice. MethodA literature review followed by a questionnaire administered to licensed physical therapists and physical therapy students. ResultsIn all, 80% of physical therapy students and 67.9% of licensed physical therapists surveyed were not familiar with CFT. Among the licensed physical therapists, more than 50% frequently use this therapy and find it effective in treating NSCLBP. Among the students, 93.1% were interested in studying this therapy as part of their initial training. The lack of training among physical therapists in this area and the importance of patient impact as a barrier to CFT may explain its limited use in practice. The main limitations of this therapy are described by the study's authors.

Does dissection influence weight bias among doctor of physical therapy students?

Anatomy with human dissection may help to develop respect for the human body and professionalism; however, dissection may worsen students' attitudes about body weight and adiposity. The purpose of this study was to measure weight bias among Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students enrolled in gross anatomy and determine if, and how the experience of dissection impacts weight bias. Ninety-seven DPT students (70 University of Colorado [CU], 27 Moravian University [MU]) were invited to complete a survey during the first and final weeks of their anatomy course. The survey included demographic items, two measures of weight bias-the Modified Weight Bias Internalized Scale (M-WBIS) and the Attitudes Towards Obese Persons (ATOP) Scale-and open-ended questions for the students who participated in dissection (CU students) that explored attitudes about body weight and adiposity. At baseline, there were no significant differences (p > 0.202) in ATOP, M-WBIS, or BMI between the two universities. The mean scores on both the ATOP and M-WBIS indicated a moderate degree of both internalized and externalized weight bias. There were no significant changes in ATOP (p = 0.566) or M-WBIS scores (p = 0.428). BMI had a low correlation with initial M-WBIS scores (⍴ = 0.294, p = 0.038) and a high correlation with change scores in CU students (⍴ = 0.530, p = 0.011). Future studies should utilize the same measures of weight bias in other healthcare trainees to facilitate comparison and incorporate larger populations of DPT students.

Patients’ perceptions and experience of hospital-based, student-led physiotherapy treatment interventions: A survey

BACKGROUND: Clinical education (CE) is an integral part of physiotherapy degree programmes. CE presents a unique learning opportunity for students to implement classroom-based teaching directly with patients and clients. Despite patients being central to CE, limited research exists around patients’ opinions of CE and the impact of student involvement in patient care. To our knowledge, there has been no study exploring patient perceptions of being treated by student physiotherapists in Ireland. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions and experiences of patients who have been assessed and treated by pre-registration MSc Physiotherapy students. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey study, involving both quantitative and qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: A total of 42 inpatient participants male n = 24 (57%) female n = 18 (43%) with 30 participants (71%) aged ≥70 were included in this study. All participants reported satisfaction with the treatment received by a student physiotherapist and reported they would avail of further treatments in the future. The benefits identified from interaction of participants with physiotherapy students included patient education and interpersonal skills. No disadvantages of being assessed and treated by a student physiotherapist were identified. Considerations for improvements identified included timing of physiotherapy sessions, frequency of sessions and the consideration of use of technology with patients. CONCLUSIONS: This study identified that all participants were very satisfied from receiving treatment interventions led by a student physiotherapist. Increased patient education and interpersonal skills were highlighted as key advantages from participants being assessed and treated by a student physiotherapist in clinical practice.

Faisabilité d’un protocole « éthique » évaluant l’intérêt de la table de dissection virtuelle dans l’apprentissage de l’anatomie chez une population d’étudiants en 1ère année de masso-kinésithérapie

IntroductionVirtual dissection tables would allow learning anatomy. The objectives were to study a new ethical protocol evaluating the impact of the tool and to give trends on the results of physiotherapy students. Material and methodForty-two were randomized in 3 groups: a monograph reviser, a dissection table, a control group. Protocol validation criteria were established and completed and a series of evaluations were conducted. The groups have benefited from the same learning content. ResultsIn all, 80% of feasibility criteria were validated. Students revising on the table obtained non-significantly higher results than intermediate (10.75/20) and final (19/20) evaluations compared to the monograph group (respectively 8.38/20, P=0.88 and 18/20, P=0.84) and control. DiscussionThe protocol has good feasibility and trends in the value of the tool. This pilot study requires further work.

Effect of narrative photography to improve physical therapy students' learning outcomes when studying heart transplantation: A randomized controlled trial.

Physical therapy students must learn about heart transplantation. They need to know how to care for these patients' emotions and needs. The study aimed to compare the effectiveness of a narrative photography (NP) program and a traditional learning (TL) program in physical therapy students' knowledge, satisfaction, empathy, and moral sensitivity. A two-armed assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial was carried out. One hundred and seventeen physical therapy students participated in the study. They were divided into two groups: (i) NP group (n = 56) and (ii) TL group (n = 61). At the end of the program, NP group's knowledge increased when compared with the TL group (p = 0.02). 90.57% of the sample was very satisfied/satisfied with the NP method, and 88.68% felt that NP helped them to understand the importance of considering subjective realities. In conclusion, NP improved knowledge and satisfaction compared with the TL group. These results suggest that NP may be a useful method to improve the academic outcomes of physical therapy students in the heart transplantation field; thus, NP may be considered a teaching-learning methodology of choice in physical therapy students.

Weight Stigma among Undergraduate Healthcare Students: A Vignette Study

Weight stigma is described as prejudice and discrimination concerning body weight. People stigmatized by their body weight report worse physical and mental health and, consequently, poor psychosocial functioning. Research has shown a high prevalence of weight stigma among health professionals. However, less is known about weight stigma among healthcare undergraduate students. In this vignette study, we assessed weight stigma in 217 healthcare students, who filled sociodemographic and weight stigma measures, and read one of three vignettes at random, each one with a hypothetical patient which differs only in terms of body weight (underweight, healthy weight, and overweight). Then, participants answered ten questions/statements about patient characteristics described in the vignette to assess the influence of body weight on stigmatizing beliefs. Weight stigma was found in 39.44% of healthcare students. Moreover, weight stigma was higher among men, healthy weight people, and Physical Therapy students. This experimental study showed more negative attitudes in participants exposed to the patient with overweight and underweight vignettes compared to those exposed to the healthy weight patient vignette. Due to the known impacts of weight stigma, efforts are needed to address this issue during the training of healthcare undergraduate students.

Physical therapy students’ experiences of inappropriate patient sexual behavior: a narrative review

Physical therapy students’ experiences of inappropriate patient sexual behavior: a narrative review

Students’ first professional placement: unravelling expectations and realities

PurposeThis study aims to examine the anticipated and actual challenges encountered by occupational therapy and physiotherapy students during their first full-time professional placement and to understand the strategies they implemented to manage their multiple life roles.Design/methodology/approachLongitudinal qualitative research examined students’ anticipated and reported challenges with their first block professional placement and the strategies they implemented during it. In total, 22 occupational therapy and physiotherapy students were interviewed at two time points (pre- and post-placement), producing 44 interview data points. Transcribed interviews were analysed thematically using a hybrid approach.FindingsPre-placement, students perceived potential challenges related to the distance between their placement location and where they resided and their ability to maintain balance in their multiple roles. Post-placement, the main reported challenge was maintaining role balance, due to unexpected challenges and students’ unanticipated tiredness. Students implemented strategies to assist with managing multiple roles and reflected on the benefits and drawbacks of placements. They also considered the necessary future adjustments.Practical implicationsThis study highlighted the importance of social support and the need for proactive recovery strategies to negate the tiredness that students experienced on placement.Originality/valueThis is the first study, to our knowledge, to investigate how allied health students, on their first block of professional placement, balanced their multiple roles over time.