Abstract
Background
Degenerative arthropathies (DA) are pathological changes in joints mainly due to wear and tear. These often affect weight bearing joints and are commoner in the elderly (American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation AAPMR, 2019). More than 50% of adults above 65 years suffer from DA (AAPMR, 2019) with a large number presenting with combination of lumbar spondylosis (LS) and knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Physiotherapists in Nigeria use various management approaches which results in variable efficacy; standardised protocols are rarely used.
Objectives
This study was aimed at evaluating knowledge and rehabilitation approaches of Physiotherapists (PTs) working at a Geriatric Centre in Nigeria in managing LS and KOA.
Method
A focused group discussion (FGD) was carried out among the ten Physiotherapists working at the geriatric center of the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria using a questionnaire specifically designed for the purpose.
Results
All PTs had basic qualifications; four had postgraduate degrees in Physiotherapy. Five Physiotherapists had worked for at least two and half years at the center, while the work experience of the remaining five ranged between two and eleven weeks. Each PT demonstrated adequate knowledge of DA. They used combination of techniques to improve functional outcomes. Each PT listed precautions in management of DA but the more experienced PTs (≥ 2.5 years) were more specific. They all opined that standards operating protocols (SOPs) that allows for flexibility would enhance management but none is presently in use. Better efficacy was reported when rehabilitation is combined with medications such as chondroitin sulphate, diclofenac sodium, and potassium chloride. Continuous rehabilitation with reducing frequency as symptoms subsided was unanimously advocated.
Conclusion
Techniques employed by Physiotherapists in rehabilitation of DA though evidence-based, vary depending on individual preferences and experience. Standardised, culture-specific protocols to enhance uniformity of care should be developed.
Reference
1. American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPMR) 2019: Degenerative Joint Disease. https://www.aapmr.org/about-physiatry/ assessed on 29/07/2019; 10.30pm.
Poster 130: Women Physicians are Often Not Visible in Newsletters Published by the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
