To what extent are work-related factors integrated into physiotherapy practice? Insights from a survey of Canadian physiotherapists.

INTRODUCTION

Disability can significantly impact a person's capacity to work and may lead to potentially life-threatening difficulties. Physiotherapists are well-positioned to address occupational issues for individuals with physical disabilities. However, it remains unclear to what extent Canadian physiotherapists integrate work-related factors in their clinical reasoning and practice.

OBJECTIVE

To gather Canadian physiotherapists' perceptions regarding the integration of work-related factors into their clinical practice.

METHODS

A cross-sectional online survey was disseminated among physiotherapy professionals in Canada working with employed disabled individuals.

RESULTS

A total of 191 eligible physiotherapists participated. Seventy percent (n = 134) of them reported regularly addressing work-related factors in their practice, with most feeling efficient in doing so. However, only 14% (n = 27) to 30% (n = 57) did often address more complex factors in their practice, such as the psychosocial factors and those that are related to workplace and on-site evaluations. Identified barriers include limited access to standardized assessment questionnaires. The development of Canadian-specific return-to-work guidelines is also perceived as an avenue to mitigate these barriers.

CONCLUSION

Canadian physiotherapists might be able to support employed disabled individuals, but they require enhanced support to fully integrate work-related factors into practice. Conclusions should be taken with caution as the results are self-reported.