Patient Perspectives on Satisfaction After Physiotherapy Management for Non-Specific Neck Pain: A Phenomenological...

Neck pain is a common musculoskeletal problem that is particularly prevalent in young adults and is frequently brought on by poor posture, repetitive strain, and stress from working environments. Two hundred three million people were estimated to have neck pain with a higher age-standardized prevalence in women than in men by 2020, which is estimated to increase by 2 million by 2050, which makes non-specific neck pain (NSNP) highly prevalent.

This study aimed to explore patient perspectives and perceptions towards satisfaction post physiotherapy management in NSNP.

A phenomenological qualitative design was employed; 13 patients who completed physiotherapy management for NSNP were recruited through criterion sampling. In-depth interviews were conducted post-management, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using reflective thematic analysis to identify patient satisfaction.

Thirteen interviews emerged four themes: (1) Patient Insights and Challenges, (2) Patient Satisfaction and Management Experience, (3) Engagement and Compliance in Physiotherapy, and (4) Holistic Impact of Management. Each theme consisted of three subthemes.

This study found that physiotherapy for NSNP reported feeling better afterwards, with improved mobility, reduced pain, and improved mental health. The findings highlight the value of a comprehensive patient centred approach in physical therapy. To support these findings, further research should look at larger populations and longer-term effects.