Background & Aims

The management of nonspecific low back pain (NSLBP) poses a significant challenge in physiotherapy practice, particularly with the underutilization of evidence-based interventions. This gap necessitates the development of effective knowledge translation (KT) interventions that are tailored to address specific barriers and promote evidence-based practices. This study aims to develop a multifaceted, context-specific knowledge translation (KT) intervention tailored for physiotherapists in India, focusing on enhancing the implementation of evidence-based practices for NSLBP.

Methods

The intervention was developed through a structured three-step approach: 1) Identification of target behaviors critical for effective NSLBP management, 2) Analysis of barriers and facilitators affecting these behaviors among physiotherapists, and 3) Development of a KT intervention using evidence-based behavioral change techniques. This approach integrated both qualitative and quantitative methodologies to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the underlying issues.

Results

The following BCTs were identified as appropriate to address the identified barriers include:1. Providing educational materials to increase awareness about evidence-based interventions, 2. Using motivational interviewing techniques to address patients’ expectations and beliefs about passive interventions, 3. Addressing misconceptions about advice to stay active and early return to work through the use of educational materials and feedback, 4. Using goal setting and action planning to encourage the use of evidence-based interventions specifically to incorporate exercise sessions into clinical visits, 5. Providing communication skills training to help physiotherapists effectively communicate the importance of advice to stay active and return to work early and help physiotherapists negotiate with and reassure patients about the use of the evidence-based interventions. These techniques were chosen based on their proven efficacy in altering clinical behaviors in similar contexts.

Conclusions

The knowledge translation (KT) intervention developed in the study was context-specific and theory-driven. By being both context-specific and theory-driven, the KT intervention was designed to address the specific barriers to implementing evidence-based interventions and to increase the likelihood of successful adoption and implementation of the intervention in physiotherapy practice in India. The study highlights the critical need for context-specific KT interventions in physiotherapy for NSLBP. By focusing on behavioral change techniques tailored to identified barriers, the intervention is anticipated to improve physiotherapists’ adherence to evidence-based practices, thereby enhancing patient care quality and outcomes in the Indian context.

References

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Presenting Author

Sweni Shah

Poster Authors

Sweni Shah

PT

Ashok and Rita Patel Institute of Physiotherapy

Lead Author

V Prakash MPT PhD

Charotar University of Science and Technology

Lead Author

Topics

  • Evidence, Clinical Trials, Systematic Review, Guidelines, and Implementation Science