Barriers and facilitators to physiotherapy among adult orthopedic patients at King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES

To identify barriers and facilitators to physiotherapy adherence in adult patients who attended an orthopaedic clinic and underwent physical therapy at King Khalid University Hospital (KKUH), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was performed at KKUH between September 2022 and January 2023. After conducting a literature review, a survey questionnaire was created, and a pilot study was conducted to evaluate its validity and clarity. Patients were approached in the waiting areas of the outpatient clinics and provided with a consent form to participate in the study.

RESULTS

Ongoing pain, travel distance, and lack of transportation were common barriers while being given a choice in rehabilitation activities, regular assessments of progress and function, and regular goal setting with the physician were common facilitators. Living in rural areas and the belief that rehabilitation is important were associated with both higher barrier and facilitator scores.

CONCLUSION

A patient-centred approach to physical therapy, effective pain management, and regular evaluation of functional progress can increase adherence to physiotherapy. These findings have implications for physiotherapy providers, policymakers, and patients in promoting adherence to treatment for improved functional outcomes, reduced pain, and increased patient satisfaction.