Physiotherapy for people with Parkinson’s disease in the UK: an exploration of practice

The aim of this study of physiotherapy in Parkinson’s disease was to identify current baseline activity and opinion on best practice to inform a model for future evaluations. The two-phase study comprised a Delphi survey of specialist physiotherapists (n=49) followed by case studies of best practice sites (n=9), involving interviews with professionals (n=29) and patients (n=30) and a documentary analysis of patients’ notes. There was strong consensus that physiotherapy was optimized within a multidisciplinary context, that treatment (which was eclectic in nature) aimed to maximize functional ability and that outcome should be assessed at this level. Patients and carers were able to identify physical, psychological and social benefits of physiotherapy. This study was a first step in a coordinated drive to link research to practice. The subsequent development and review of Guidelines for Physiotherapy Practice in Parkinson’s Disease will inform the current National Institute for Clinical Excellence Parkinson’s disease guidelines exercise.