Towards a paradigm-oriented approach in physiotherapy

A great variety of interesting questions arise in the field of physiotherapy concerning research, its particular body of knowledge and its choice of models for treatment strategies in its practical application. A physiotherapeutic approach towards these questions is dependent on the underlying assumptions that have been adopted within the profession. These ontological presuppositions are important because ontology (what really exists) is followed by certain knowledge. A professional paradigm for the field includes four components through which the identity of physiotherapy can be defined: interest, competence, world view, and view of science. It is not relevant to ask whether there is one commonly accepted paradigm in physiotherapy before a uniform understanding concerning the basic assumptions behind the practice of physiotherapy is adopted. Qualitative research methodology complements the traditional quantitative approach, especially in those sciences viewing man as a whole. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to describe a concept paradigm based on Tornebohm's (1985) and Venkula's (1994) theories, and to reflect on the present stage of professional paradigms in physiotherapy. Some examples defining and explaining the different components in physiotherapy's paradigms are discussed.