Eytan Copitch
School of Allied Health Professions
Addressing patients ’ stress in musculoskeletal physiotherapy practice : a qualitative study exploring physiotherapists ’ and patients ’ perspectives
Background : Stress is a substantial public health challenge . Physiotherapists regularly see patients presenting with stress , yet it is unclear what their views are towards identifying and addressing patients ’ stress . Similarly , patients ’ experiences and expectations of stress management as part of musculoskeletal ( MSK ) physiotherapy are unknown .
Methods : Semi-structured interviews ( n = 7 MSK physiotherapists ) and a mini focus group ( 3 patients ) were conducted . Data was analysed according to reflexive thematic analysis . The analysed data from each phase of the study was then triangulated .
Results : MSK physiotherapists acknowledged the importance of addressing patients ’ stress and perceived that they are well-placed to do so . Physiotherapists believed that a holistic approach to stress management is needed and valued multidisciplinary team working . Yet , they considered that more should be done to optimise the way that stress is addressed with MSK physiotherapy . Focus group and interview data were mostly congruent , suggesting that : i ) the current management of stress as part of MSK physiotherapy is suboptimal ; ii ) a holistic approach to care is needed ; iii ) brokering strong patient-physiotherapist partnerships may help improve care .
Conclusion : providing longer consultation times to patients found to be stressed during pre-consultation screening may improve the way that stress is addressed within MSK physiotherapy .
Postgraduate Conference 2021 Page 17