Frequency of Physical Therapy Consultation of Females after Delivery: A Cross- Sectional Study from Twin Cities in Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Physical therapy intervention is a key regime in the prevention and management of postpartum complications, including both systemic and psychological illnesses. Purpose: The aim was to determine the frequency of physical therapy referrals in Pakistan during the postpartum period, in addition to determining the frequency of mothers’ attendance at physical therapy sessions and the most commonly reported complaints after delivery. Method: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in twin cities in Pakistan. Data were collected from 384 postpartum mothers through a self-structured questionnaire, after taking verbal and written consent. We inquired whether the subject was aware of physical therapy, referred for physical therapy, or had attended physical therapy sessions, as well as asking about the most commonly reported complaints amongst postpartum mothers. The collected data were confidential. Results: The mean age of participants was 25.76±4.09. Out of 384 women, only 138 (35.9%) reported an awareness regarding physical therapy and just 89 (23.2%) had been referred for postpartum physical therapy and attended the sessions. Back pain and urinary incontinence were amongst the most commonly reported complaints. Conclusion: It is concluded that the rate of referral to physical therapy is very low in a developing country like Pakistan, irrespective of any complications faced by postpartum mothers. Furthermore, females who had consulted a physical therapist after referral were lost to follow-ups.