Physiotherapy and Cultural Sensitivity

Physiotherapy and Cultural Sensitivity

What is Physiotherapy?

According to the American Physical Therapy Association; 

Physiotherapy as described by World Physiotherapy, It is a health care profession concerned with human function and movement and maximizing physical potential. Physiotherapy works at all levels of health care: Primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Physiotherapists are those who qualify and possess a minimum of Graduation in Physical Therapy. They use physical approaches to

1) Promote,

 2) Maintain and

3) Restore

 the Physical, Psychological and Social Well-being, taking into account variations in health status.

A physiotherapist has to deal with different kinds of movement disorders and serious illnesses. Therefore there may be a culturally diverse group that needs a Physical Therapy service.  So a physical Therapist must be culturally sensitive to deal with patients.

Let’s explore some of the considerations for culturally sensitive care within physiotherapy and rehabilitation practice!

What is culture? 

Its a "Pattern of learned values, behavior and beliefs that are shared within a group"

Anthropological definition: a dynamic process through which ordinary activities and conditions take on the emotional and moral tone and meaning for participant

The lens through which we perceive and interpret the world around 

 Cultural perspectives influence how we experience all aspects of life.

It influences our understanding and experience of health, illness and disabilities.

Affects our expectations of the role that families and communities will play in our experience of illness. 

 What is culturally sensitive care?

 Culture is not synonymous with ethnicity

Do not make assumptions based on the patient's dress, appearance, or accent

Actively engage and have a dialogue with patients about their understanding and experience of health and illness, function, and dysfunction.

Consider the views and values of the patient as important and worthy of attention and consideration.

Respecting culture entails taking seriously the cultural perspectives expressed by patients even when these do not coincide with your own.

Reflect on own cultural framework in relation to health care, and how it interacts with others.

How can it be applied in physiotherapy and rehabilitation?

Consider the culture of recipients and providers to ensure successful outcomes

Failing to consider the role of culture in clinic, may. impede communication and understanding, and risk goals being less relevant to the patient.

Translators can help overcome language barriers

Cultural Mediators, or "cultural brokers", can assist in the communication between the health care team, the patient, and their family. They may help identify cultural issues, and negotiate towards improved understanding.

Cross-cultural clinical visits often take more time, ensure this is reflected in your scheduling.

Therapists should seek to understand how patients conceive of, and live, their state of health or illness