Peter K. Edwards , Katrina Leembruggen , Chelsea Peers , Martin Lindahl , Yee Xi Law , Mick Hughes , Mark Gibson , Jay R. Ebert
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Objective
This study aimed to investigate the current beliefs and practices among Australian physiotherapists regarding the management of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries.
Design
Cross-sectional survey.
Setting
Online survey.
Participants
Australian physiotherapists.
Outcome measures
The survey assessed beliefs and practices regarding non-operative management, ACL reconstruction, pre- and post-operative rehabilitation, and return to sport (RTS) criteria. Frequencies and percentages summarized survey responses, and chi-square or Fisher's exact tests assessed whether beliefs and practices were influenced by experience (≤6 years or >6 years) and annual caseload (<6 or ≥6 patients).
Results
In total, 419 physiotherapists were included, with 367 completing the survey in its entirety. Most physiotherapists (86.8%) consider non-surgical management alternatives for patients. Two-thirds (59.8%) recommend a minimum of 9–12 months before RTS, emphasizing recovery of knee strength (93.9%) and psychological readiness (93.9%). Of those who assessed strength, 32.5% use manual muscle testing, and 37.4% assess strength from hop testing. The 63.5% of respondents who reported barriers to implementing best practice ACL management, cited lack of resources (69.1%) and patient non-compliance (67.8%) as the most common reasons.
Conclusion
This survey of Australian physiotherapists showed alignment with evidence-based ACL guidelines but highlighted differences from international practices and variations by experience and caseload.
期刊介绍:
Physical Therapy in Sport is an international peer-reviewed journal that provides a forum for the publication of research and clinical practice material relevant to the healthcare professions involved in sports and exercise medicine, and rehabilitation. The journal publishes material that is indispensable for day-to-day practice and continuing professional development. Physical Therapy in Sport covers topics dealing with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of injuries, as well as more general areas of sports and exercise medicine and related sports science.
The journal publishes original research, case studies, reviews, masterclasses, papers on clinical approaches, and book reviews, as well as occasional reports from conferences. Papers are double-blind peer-reviewed by our international advisory board and other international experts, and submissions from a broad range of disciplines are actively encouraged.