Causal inferences behind patient preference to seek physical therapy: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Rehabilitation programs after various diseases improve recovery and impact patient quality of life. However, patient participation is still deficient due to patient perspective and referral practice. Purpose To identify the extent to which patients seek to participate in physical therapy following diagnosed diseases and before or after surgeries. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional observational study using structured questionnaires. Results Among 71 participants, women made up 48% ( N = 34), 77% ( N = 55) of participants had education beyond the eighth grade, 75% ( N = 53) of them were employed, 74% ( N = 50) had monthly expenditure over US $116, and 56% ( N = 40) of participants underwent rehabilitation for pain management due to neurological or musculoskeletal diseases. Post-stroke and post-operative rehabilitation programs were attended by 39% ( N = 28). Of those who underwent preoperative and post-operative rehabilitation, 54% of participants were treated with manual therapy, and 72% of participants were treated with electrotherapy, respectively. Moreover, 61% of participants attended rehabilitation by recommendation of the operating surgeons. Conclusion Our study revealed that the main reason for participation in a rehabilitation facility is pain or disability management. Thereby, the health system must prioritize public awareness about the necessity of rehabilitation and the availability of rehabilitation centers, which would increase referral practices and patient participation and, overall, improve patient quality of life. Future studies are needed to elucidate the causal relationship between patient participation rates and different rehabilitation programs, including but not limited to preoperative and post-operative stages.