Premium
An exploration of UK student physiotherapists' goal setting practices within anterior cruciate ligament rehabilitation
Author(s) -
Alexanders Jenny,
Chesterton Paul,
Brooks Anna,
Kaye Jo Ann
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
musculoskeletal care
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.628
H-Index - 28
eISSN - 1557-0681
pISSN - 1478-2189
DOI - 10.1002/msc.1519
Subject(s) - thematic analysis , rehabilitation , credibility , medicine , coaching , medical education , goal setting , applied psychology , qualitative research , nursing , psychology , physical therapy , social psychology , psychotherapist , social science , sociology , political science , law
Background Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are a common and complex injury coupled with a lengthy rehabilitation. Goal setting is said to be an effective psychological tool within ACL rehabilitation due to its simplicity and is commonly used amongst sport and health professionals. To date, literature surrounding goal setting practices has only focused on qualified therapists. Purpose The central aim of this study was to explore UK student physiotherapists' perceptions towards goal setting practices used in ACL rehabilitation and whether they feel prepared for practice. Method Semi‐structured interviews involving 11 participants from one UK university was conducted using an inductive approach. Data analysis included thematic analysis with triangulation and a comprehensive five‐stage analysis process to enhance confirmability and credibility, whilst respecting ethical considerations. Results/Discussion Participants reported some understanding of goal setting and the importance of involving the patient during this process. However, participants negatively experienced goal setting practices as being mainly therapist/protocol led. The training participants received on goal setting was minimal, but further training was welcomed by all participants. The findings were consistent with previous UK and international research surrounding inadequate education and training across sport and health professionals when applying goal setting practice within ACL rehabilitation. Conclusion These findings suggest that, initially, a review of the psychological content of sport and health professional courses is warranted to clearly identify potential knowledge gaps. There is also an opportunity whereby a global specialist interest group could be designed to share psychological practices and globally connect like‐minded sport and health professionals together.