Vanti Carla, Ferrari Silvano, Brovelli Silvia, Marinucci Celeste, Seggiaro Alessandro, Turolla Andrea, Pillastrini Paolo
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Sexual disability is an emerging topic in the management of low back pain (LBP); nevertheless, sexual counseling skills are not widespread amongst professionals. The clinical behavior of physiotherapists in this field was not studied thoroughly; therefore, it is not clear if and how physiotherapists collect information related to sexual disability and how they manage it. This survey aimed to investigate knowledge, beliefs and attitudes of Italian physiotherapists in managing this disability. An online survey with 28 questions was distributed from February 2nd to July 10th 2023 via the newsletter of the Italian Association of Physiotherapy, email and social media. The questionnaire queried on participant demographics, assessment and treatment procedures, beliefs and potential barriers, sex, expertise, previous educational background, and geographical area. 448 physiotherapists completed the survey, with 69.87% not investigating LBP-related sexual disability routinely. 85% of physiotherapists diagnosed sexual disability in 0–10% of patients treated for LBP. Sexual disability is reported by physiotherapists at random in 54.91% of patients. When it is diagnosed, 90.41% of physiotherapists would choose evidence-based procedures, but only 19.96% of them would directly involve the patient’s partner. Postgraduate education and professional expertise positively influence beliefs and attitudes. Main barriers and difficulties in the field are the perceived lack of expertise, other therapeutic priorities, cultural attitudes of patients, and fear of violating patients’ privacy. The beliefs and attitudes of Italian physiotherapists in the management of sexual disability are characterized by scarce attention and feeling of inadequacy, but they show the potential to adequately treat this disability.
期刊介绍:
Sexuality and Disability is an international forum for the publication of peer-reviewed original interdisciplinary scholarly papers that address the psychological and medical aspects of sexuality in relation to rehabilitation. Publishing timely research articles, review articles, case studies, clinical practice reports, brief research reports, survey data reports, and book and film reviews, the journal offers the latest developments in the area of sexuality as it relates to a wide range of disabilities and conditions. Contributions address: clinical and research progress; community programs; independent-living programs; guidelines for clinical practice; special grand-rounds topics; consumer issues; and contemporary developments in special programs in sex education and counseling for people with disabilities. The journal features special issues with internationally renowned guest editors focusing on current topics in sexual health. By publishing research, best-practice, evidence-based, and educational articles, the journal seeks to contribute to the field''s knowledge base and advancement. Sexuality and Disability is an essential resource for the exchange of new knowledge, issues, techniques, and available modalities for researchers and other professionals addressing the psychological and medical aspects of sexuality in rehabilitation, medical, academic, and community settings.