Awareness and Knowledge of Physical Therapy Practice in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

J Allied Health. 2020 Spring;49(1):e33-e37.

Abstract

Purpose: To gauge awareness of physical therapy (PT) and determine if there is a need for raising awareness of it in Saudi Arabia, a survey was undertaken to assess public opinion.

Methods: A 15-item survey was distributed to a convenience sample through social media for 2 weeks in April 2018.

Results: 1,016 respondents (75.8% female) completed the survey, ranging from 15 years of age to >70, from all regions of the country. More than three-fourths were college educated. The survey showed broad awareness (98.2%) of PT, high trust (96.3%) in PT's ability to promote and enhance health, and a very high consensus (98.3%) that the public should be made aware of PT services.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Awareness*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Physical Therapy Modalities*
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult