physical therapist perspective

The objectives of this retrospective observational study were to explore physical therapists’ perceived involvement of patients with SCI in physical therapy (PT) rehabilitation, second to explore individuals with SCI perceived involvement in PT rehabilitation, third to compare how patients and physical therapist perceive involvement in PT rehabilitation and last to explore patients’ perceived involvement with satisfaction with life (SWL). This study was conducted in the United States. Two 11-item questionnaires were designed one for physical therapists and one for patients. The items were rated on a Likert-type agreement scale. Thirty physical therapists completed the patient involvement questionnaire for physical therapists and nine individuals with SCI completed the patient involvement questionnaire and SWL scale. We certify that all applicable governmental and institutional guidelines were followed during the course of this research. The results indicated that both physical therapists and patients were overall in agreement that patients were involved in their PT rehabilitation on most items. The two items that received the lowest Likert scores by the therapists and patients were friends and family involvement in therapy and gender-related issues. The item, individualized patient goals, received the largest discrepancy between therapists and patients. The sample size was too small to observe a trend with SWL and perceived involvement. Patients and PTs from this pilot overall agree patients are included in treatment; however, the discrepancy in scores related to individualized goals requires further research.

Involving patients in rehabilitation is a necessary component of the process to assist individuals in meeting their desired goals for community integration. Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) result in neurological deficits requiring the services of interdisciplinary medical professions, most importantly the rehabilitation team. Each patient’s method of adapting to SCI will be unique and very individualized. Social, psychological and emotional implications as well as level of disability impact an individual’s recovery. 1, 2, 3 These factors can have an impact on an individual living with SCI’s satisfaction with life (SWL). The inpatient rehabilitation process can help an individual with SCI adjust and cope with the new changes in his life secondary to his injury. 4 Physical therapists have an active role in rehabilitation promoting the goal of community reintegration in individuals with SCI. 1

According to Papadimitriou, 4 patients undergo a process of habituating to the world from a new physical perspective, participating in activities using new skill strategies. New ways of acquiring these skills occurs with therapists physically engaging and communicating in action as new methods are practiced. 4 Effective practice requires that clinicians interact with their patients in ways that make them feel included in their rehabilitation and tailor treatments towards the patient’s individual goals.