Exploring the implementation potential of physical activity assessment and prescription tools in physical therapy practice: a mixed-method study

Background Despite the benefits of physical activity (PA), especially related to aging, physical therapists do not perform regular PA prescriptions secondary to various barriers, including lack of tools. Therefore, we developed the Inventory of Physical Activity Barriers (IPAB). Objective Explore potential solutions that could address the current lack of PA prescription among United States-based physical therapists treating patients 50 years and older. Method A convergent parallel mixed-method design consisting of focus groups and self-report questionnaires. Descriptive statistics were used for all quantitative variables. Focus groups were thematically coded. Results The 26 participants had 8.6 years (SD = 6.4) of clinical experience, 88.4% (n = 23) reported they regularly have PA conversations with patients, 65.4% (n = 17) regularly assess PA levels, and 19.2% (n = 5) regularly provide PA prescriptions. We identified three themes: 1) opportunities and challenges related to PA prescriptions; 2) lack of standardization in PA assessments and interventions; and 3) implementation potential for innovative solutions that address the current informal PA assessments and interventions. Conclusion Physical therapists are amenable to incorporating innovative solutions that support physical activity prescription behavior. Therefore, we recommend the continued development and implementation of PA assessment and prescription tools.

Automated summary

This study examined the issue of physical therapists in the United States not prescribing physical activity to patients aged 50 and older, finding that while they often have conversations about PA, there is a lack of standardized assessment and interventions. The study recommends the continued development and implementation of tools for PA assessment and prescription.