Knowledge and use of the International Classification of Functioning, disability and health (ICF) and ICF Core Sets for musculoskeletal conditions among saudi physical therapists

Abstract

Background: The International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) provides a coherent biopsychosocial view of health states. The ICF Core Sets were developed to facilitate and encourage the use of the ICF in clinical practice and research. Objective: To examine the level of knowledge and use of the ICF and ICF Core Sets for musculoskeletal conditions among Saudi physical therapists. Design: Cross-sectional study. Method: We approached Saudi physical therapists (PTs) involved in managing patients with musculoskeletal conditions. Data were collected through an electronic survey consisting of multiple-choice questions related to the knowledge of the ICF, general ICF Core Sets and ICF Core Sets for musculoskeletal conditions. Results: A total of 203 PTs participated in this study. Seventy percent of PTs knew about the meaning of ICF, but only 33% recognized aspects of the ICF. For the osteoarthritis (OA) ICF Core Set, 71.9% had poor knowledge, and for the low back pain (LBP) ICF Core Set, 61.8% had poor knowledge. Conclusions: The Saudi PTs surveyed in this study had a good level of knowledge about the meaning of the ICF; however, this knowledge appeared to be limited when they were asked about aspects of the ICF. They had poor knowledge of musculoskeletal ICF Core Sets but seemed to be more familiar with the LBP ICF Core Set compared to the OA ICF Core Set.