Practice patterns when treating patients with low back pain: a survey of physical therapists.

Practice patterns when treating patients with low back pain: a survey of physical therapists. Physiother Theory Pract. 2014 Feb 26; Authors: Davies C, Nitz AJ, Mattacola CG, Kitzman P, Howell D, Viele K, Baxter D, Brockopp D Abstract Abstract Low back pain (LBP), is a common musculoskeletal problem, affecting 75-85% of adults in their lifetime. Direct costs of LBP in the USA were estimated over 85 billion dollars in 2005 resulting in a significant economic burden for the healthcare system. LBP classification systems and outcome measures are available to guide physical therapy assessments and intervention. However, little is known about which, if any, physical therapists use in clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to identify the use of and barriers to LBP classification systems and outcome measures among physical therapists in one state. A mixed methods study using a cross-sectional cohort design with descriptive qualitative methods was performed. A survey collected both quantitative and qualitative data relevant to classification systems and outcome measures used by physical therapists working with patients with LBP. Physical therapists responded using classification systems designed to direct treatment predominantly. The McKenzie method was the most frequent approach to classify LBP. Barriers to use of classification systems and outcome measures were lack of knowledge, too limiting and time. Classification systems are being used ...
Source: Physiotherapy Theory and Practice - Category: Physiotherapy Authors: Tags: Physiother Theory Pract Source Type: research