Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Physiotherapist Regarding Role of Physiotherapy in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Management

Vollständiger Abstract

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Background - A frequent respiratory condition linked to sleep, obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is linked to serious metabolic and cardiovascular issues. Breathing exercises, oropharyngeal exercises, myofunctional therapy, and positional therapy are examples of physiotherapy techniques that have demonstrated positive outcomes in the treatment of OSA. However, little research has been done on physiotherapists' knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) in relation to their involvement in managing OSA. Objective- To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of physiotherapists regarding the role of physiotherapy in obstructive sleep apnea management. Methods- Convenience sampling was used to perform a cross-sectional study with 101 physiotherapists. Participants' knowledge, attitudes, and habits about OSA management were evaluated using a self-administered questionnaire. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics. Results- The majority of responders (96%) agreed that physiotherapy has a part in managing OSA. The most often reported therapies were breathing exercises (89.1%) and oropharyngeal exercises (84.2%). 92% of respondents thought that physiotherapy therapies were helpful in managing OSA. Lack of training (66.3%), low patient compliance (58.4%), and low patient awareness (77.2%) were the main obstacles found. Conclusion- Although physiotherapists showed good attitudes and knowledge about managing OSA, patient awareness and training gaps continue to be obstacles to efficient clinical practice. The contribution of physiotherapists to multidisciplinary OSA care may be enhanced by including sleep medicine instruction into physiotherapy curricula and continuing professional development programs.