Physical Therapy in Stroke Rehabilitation: Bases for Swedish Physiotherapists' Choice of Treatment

Abstract

The aims of this study were to investigate (1) physiotherapy treatment strategies, (2) the bases for choice of treatment and (3) attitudes among physiotherapists who work with stroke patients of introducing new methods of treatment. Questionnaires were posted to all the 213 members of the Neurological Section of the Swedish Physiotherapy Association, 66% of which were returned. Thirteen were excluded due to lack of experience. Of the remaining 128 physiotherapists, the majority (91%) worked in regional hospitals. Experience of working with patients was considered as most important for the physiotherapists' present view of treatment, while basic training, theory and literature were considered less important. Detailed statements of the treatment of stroke patients were common among the respondents, whereas the theoretical explanations for their selected method of treatment were less elaborate. An open attitude to change and the introduction of new methods of treatment was evident among 75% of the respondents.