Utilization Of Outcome Measures By Physiotherapist For Low Back Pain

Background: Rehabilitation of patients with low back pain forms an important part of physiotherapy practice, then also rehabilitation outcomes often are poorly quantified. This study examined the use of outcome measures for low back pain by Indian Physiotherapists. Methods: A survey questionnaire was sent via social media like WhatsApp, Facebook, and email to all physiotherapists via google forms working either in private practice, government organizations, Physiotherapy colleges, free lancing. Link was accessed 125 times and 71 fully filled responses were analyzed. Results:The mail survey achieved a 56.8% response rate and showed that 52.9% physiotherapists used outcome measures. Improvement in person-specific functional activities is the preferred outcome measure used by physiotherapist. Conclusion: Half of the study sample of practitioners used outcome measures in their clinical practice. Therapists who were having a post graduate degree or more experience, were using more outcome measures then those who were having graduation degree or less experience. Further research is needed on how to convey to practitioners that the information they provide can be useful and can improve patient outcomes.