Physical Therapists’ Falls Prevention Knowledge, Beliefs, and Practices in Osteoarthritis Care: A National Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: To investigate physical therapists’ knowledge, beliefs, and current practices around falls prevention in osteoarthritis (OA) care. Methods: Currently registered, practicing Australian physical therapists who care for patients with hip and/or knee OA were invited to participate in this cross-sectional study. A comprehensive online survey was used to collect data that were analyzed descriptively or using chi-square tests; free-text responses were classified into key themes for analysis. Results: Complete responses were received from 370 eligible physical therapists, with broad representation across Australian states and practice settings. Participants worked in public and private ho..