Group-based circuit training to improve mobility after stroke: a cross-sectional survey of German and Austrian physical therapists in outpatient settings.

BACKGROUND

A contextual transferability analysis identified group-based circuit training (GCT) as an optimal intervention in German and Austrian outpatient physical therapy to improve mobility post-stroke. GCT incorporates task-oriented, high-repetitive, balance, aerobic and strength training and allows for increased therapy time without increasing personnel.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the extent to which German and Austrian physical therapists (PTs) use GCT and its components in the outpatient treatment of stroke-related mobility deficits and to identify factors associated with using GCT components.

METHODS

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted. Data were analyzed descriptively and using ordinal regression.

RESULTS

Ninety-three PTs participated. None reported using GCT moderately to frequently (4-10/10 patients). The percentage of PTs reporting frequent use (7-10/10 patients) of task-oriented, balance, strength, aerobic, and high-repetitive training was 45.2%, 43.0%, 26.9%, 19.4%, and 8.6%, respectively. Teaching or supervising students, time for evidence-based practice activities at work, and working in Austria was associated with using GCT components frequently.

CONCLUSION

German and Austrian PTs do not yet use GCT in outpatient physical therapy for stroke. Almost half of PTs, however, employ task-oriented training as recommended across guidelines. A detailed, theory-driven and country-specific evaluation of barriers to GCT uptake is necessary to inform implementation.