EVIDENCE-BASED PHYSIOTHERAPY PRACTICE: IMPLEMENTATION, EDUCATION AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

In this era of rapid achievements and advances in healthcare knowledge, one needs to be updated about the ongoing methods of treatment and practice. Evidence Based Physiotherapy is an essential and fundamental approach that integrates best available research evidence, clinical expertise or experience, patient values, cultural norms and ethical concerns. This chapter explores the concept of Evidence Based Physiotherapy, its evolution and future scope, implementation steps and strategies. Ithighlights the major paradigm shifts in practice that happened due to the practice of evidence based physiotherapy. It further explores five step model proposed in the Sicily statement. Emphasizing the importance of EBP education and its incorporation in teaching institutions and clinical practice through research courses, workshops, collaboration with clinical practice, IT, journal clubs etc. Additionallyit implores different barriers to EBP implementation, including lack of time and research resources, research skills, patient overload etc. Concluding with the current scenario of EBP practice and education in India and how it can be improved.