Background: Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator modulator (CFTRm) therapy has transformed cystic fibrosis (CF) outcomes in high-income settings, yet access remains severely limited in South Africa. Patient-reported outcomes of CFTRm are underexplored. Objectives: To describe the lived experiences of South African people living with cystic fibrosis (PLwCF) following CFTRm…
Background: Mental illness (MI) is a leading cause of global ill health and disability, with nearly half of the population affected by mental health (MH) conditions at some point in their lives. Consequently, all healthcare professionals, including physiotherapy students, will inevitably encounter patients with MI in clinical practice. However, their preparedness and ability to manage these…
Background: Kinesiophobia hampers positive outcomes in patients with non-specific chronic lower back pain (NSCLBP). Graded exposure therapy is a psychosocial approach aimed at increasing patients’ functional capacity by challenging their fears and negative expectations. Objectives: Our study aimed to evaluate the effect of a graded exposure therapy programme on patients with NSCLBP, with primary…
Background: To improve motor impairment in stroke survivors, physiotherapists are encouraged to structure exercise sessions in such a way that motor learning is optimised in stroke survivors. No studies have described the knowledge, attitudes or practices of South African physiotherapists regarding motor learning in stroke rehabilitation. Objectives: To describe the knowledge, attitudes and…
Background: Variations in external examination processes across South African universities may challenge the validity of physiotherapy assessments. Our study explores external examiners’ understanding of moderation and academic standards. Objectives: This study aimed to describe the examination processes and external examiners’ perceptions of academic standards in South African physiotherapy…
Gamification has emerged as a transformative pedagogical strategy in health sciences education, offering innovative ways to enhance student engagement, motivation and competency development. This state-of-the-art commentary explores the integration of digital badges into the third-year Medicine and Surgery course for occupational therapy and physiotherapy students at a public university in South…
Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a primary global cause of disability, with lifestyle interventions such as exercise and weight management serving as key conservative strategies. However, the diversity of these interventions and their assessment measures lack synthesis. Objectives: Our scoping review explored the range, characteristics and outcomes of lifestyle interventions for knee OA and…
Background: A shift from biomedical towards biopsychosocial approaches is increasingly recommended in literature for the management of non-specific low back pain (LBP). The knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of clinicians may, however, serve as a barrier to effective management. Objectives: Our study investigated the impact of an online education programme on the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of…
Background: The prevalence of polytrauma is increasing globally and in South Africa, contributing to the reported rates of disability. Early physiotherapy intervention in the acute care setting reduces the risk of complications and facilitates functional recovery of patients who sustained polytrauma injuries. There is minimal evidence exploring patients’ perceptions of their recovery of physical…
