Implementation Outcomes
Implementation outcomes are measures of how well and how often physical therapy for chronic pain is being implemented. Health outcomes are measures of whether physical therapy for chronic pain works. Click the buttons on the left to read more about implementation outcomes and health outcomes that have been measured for physical therapy for chronic pain, as well as to consider some potential research questions. In addition, view the RASC guide Integrating Implementation Outcomes into Effectiveness Studies for practical guidance on how to include implementation outcomes in your studies.
The implementation outcomes of physical therapy have largely focused on appropriateness and satisfaction, with strong support for PT implementation.
Appropriateness refers to the perceived fit, relevance, and compatibility of the intervention given the problem and setting at hand. Previous work has utilized surveys to understand individual perspectives on the appropriateness of PT. Individuals participating in PT delivered via telehealth may have mixed experiences with its delivery. Those who viewed telehealth positively tended to see the adaptation as more convenient, cost-effective, and personalized than in-person PT, whereas those with negative views of telehealth were more likely to report difficulties connecting with the therapist, receiving corrective feedback during exercise, and experiencing technology issues.
Patient satisfaction with PT care is notably high, with one meta-analysis estimating an average patient satisfaction rating of 4.44 on a 1-5 scale (1=very dissatisfied, 5= very satisfied). Furthermore, an estimated 68–91% of patients were satisfied or completely satisfied with their PT care. Higher satisfaction is associated with treatments provided in private clinics and treatments that include manual therapy, massage, and electrotherapy.