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Related Experiment Videos

Survey of physical agent modality use.

E Taylor1, R Humphry

  • 1Occupational Therapy Division, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 27599-7120.

The American Journal of Occupational Therapy : Official Publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association
|October 1, 1991
PubMed
Summary

Occupational therapists frequently use physical agent modalities, especially hot and cold packs, with on-the-job training being common. Hand therapists show the most positive views on their use in practice.

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Area of Science:

  • Occupational Therapy
  • Physical Rehabilitation
  • Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

  • Physical agent modalities (PAMs) are commonly used in occupational therapy.
  • Understanding therapist usage, training, and attitudes towards PAMs is crucial for practice development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the utilization patterns, educational backgrounds, and professional opinions of occupational therapists regarding physical agent modalities.
  • To identify differences in PAMs use and attitudes based on practice area and role.

Main Methods:

  • A questionnaire was administered to 629 occupational therapists specializing in physical disabilities.
  • Data collected included frequency of PAMs use, specific modalities employed, training methods, and therapist roles.

Main Results:

  • Hot and cold packs were the most frequently used PAMs, while ultrasound was least used.
  • Therapists in hand rehabilitation reported the highest usage. Direct care providers and hand therapists expressed more positive attitudes towards PAMs.
  • On-the-job training was the most common educational method for PAMs use.

Conclusions:

  • Physical agent modalities are integral to occupational therapy, particularly in hand rehabilitation.
  • Further research into standardized training and efficacy of less-used modalities like ultrasound is warranted.
  • Positive attitudes among direct care providers highlight the perceived value of PAMs in patient treatment.

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