Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): physiotherapists' use, knowledge and attitudes

This paper reports on a survey regarding physiotherapists' knowledge, use and attitudes to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), some of which have recently been re-scheduled to non-prescription dispensing. A written survey instrument was developed and administered to 750 physiotherapists in South Australia, Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory (50% of the registered physiotherapists). Responses were received from 285 physiotherapists. The survey identified opportunities for patient misuse and misadventures with NSAIDs in conjunction with physiotherapy management. Differences in physiotherapist understanding of the dosage and actions of oral and topic administrations of NSAIDs were highlighted, as were the moral and ethical responsibilities of physiotherapists to patients considering taking NSAIDs. The study identified the need for regular professional updates on quality use of NSAIDs.