The perceived role of physiotherapists in the promotion of physical activity

• Main Author: Krayem, Khawla
• Other Authors: Phillips, J.
• Language: en
• Published: University of the Western Cape 2018
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/11394/5828

Masters of Science - Msc (Physiotherapy) === Studies have demonstrated that physical inactivity has been recognised as a major cause of death and disability, and it has been linked to the onset of noncommunicable diseases and risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart diseases. Several studies have revealed that regular physical activity is essential to the physical, mental, health and wellbeing of people of all ages. Health care professionals such as physiotherapists are in a position to promote physical activity through development of a plan for physical fitness, the promotion of health and wellness, health education and physical conditioning. This study sought to investigate the physiotherapy students' perception of their role in the promotion of physical activity. A mixed method design was used in this study, and data was collected by means of a self-administrated questionnaire and a focus group discussion. The questionnaire assessed knowledge, role perception, level of confidence, barriers, feasibility, and self-efficacy regarding physical activity promotion, while the focus group discussion explored the experience of the physiotherapy students in the promotion of physical activity.