Physiotherapists' Adherence to Clinical Practice Guidelines in Fibromyalgia: New Research Highlights Acceptable Level of Knowledge

Strategic Insights -

A new study published in Rheumatology International has investigated the level of knowledge and adherence to Clinical Practice Guidelines on fibromyalgia among physiotherapists in Spain. The researchers, led by Mariano Gacto-Sanchez from the University of Murcia, conducted a cross-sectional study using an online survey to assess the knowledge, assessment, treatment, and decision-making of physiotherapists in Spain. The study found that while there is an acceptable level of knowledge and adherence to clinical practice guidelines, there is still a gap between evidence-based therapies and daily practice, highlighting the need for further education and updates.

Key Takeaways:

  • A total of 240 physiotherapists met the inclusion criteria, with 68 (28.33%) classified as adherent to Clinical Practice Guidelines on fibromyalgia.
  • The academic level of studies (Chi-square = 48.601, p-value = 0.001) and having had previous training in fibromyalgia (Chi-square = 151.011, p-value = 0.001) displayed statistically significant differences across adherence-based groups.
  • Only 28.33% of physiotherapists were found to be adherent to clinical practice guidelines, while 15 out of 24 statements on fibromyalgia showed a high level of consensus.
  • The study highlights the need for further education and updates on evidence-based therapies for physiotherapists in Spain.
  • The research implies that there is a gap between evidence-based therapies and daily practice, necessitating efforts to promote and reinforce the importance of evidence-based treatments.

Statistics:

  • 240 physiotherapists were included in the study, with 68 (28.33%) found to be adherent to clinical practice guidelines.
  • 15 out of 24 statements on fibromyalgia showed a high level of consensus among physiotherapists.
  • Chi-square = 48.601 (p-value = 0.001) and Chi-square = 151.011 (p-value = 0.001) indicate statistically significant differences in adherence to clinical practice guidelines based on academic level of studies and previous training in fibromyalgia.

Sources:

  • Physiotherapists' Adherence To Clinical Practice Guidelines In Fibromyalgia: a Cross-sectional Online Survey. Rheumatology International, 2024.
  • University of Murcia, Dept. of Physical Therapy, Campus Hlth Sci, Ave Buenavista, 32 El Palmar, Murcia 30120, Spain.
  • Springer Heidelberg, Tiergartenstrasse 17, D-69121 Heidelberg, Germany.