Perceptions of occupational therapists and physiotherapists of early intervention therapy services for infants with or at risk of cerebral palsy: A qualitative interview study

PurposeThis study aimed to explore therapists' experiences of providing early intervention therapy services for infants with or at risk of cerebral palsy (CP), and, in particular, therapy services that promote infants' hand function.MethodsEleven semi-structured small group interviews and one individual interview were conducted with 26 therapists working with infants, either in hospital or in the municipality. Interview transcripts were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.ResultsProviding early intervention therapy services for infants with or at risk of CP was influenced by factors such as inadequate coordination and communication between hospital and municipalities, varying use of motor assessment tools to detect risk of CP, more focus on gross motor function than hand function in early age, impact of usual clinical practice, requirements for acting in a variable therapeutic role when providing guidance for parents, and challenges obtaining therapeutic training and specialization in a decentralized organization.ConclusionChallenges caused by a complex practice and a high level of requirement for therapeutic skill may have an impact on evidence-based practice and need to be addressed when incorporating new research knowledge about early CP-specific interventions into a family-centered clinical practice.