What is a Professional Theoretical Article? We will start with what it is and what it is not. A Professional Theoretical Article is not a research article that compares means in a randomized control study or a pre-post quasi-experimental study to examine if a treatment is effective. It is not a qualitative research study that utilizes interviews and focus groups to identify participant themes. It is not a descriptive study that examines reliability and validity of an instrument or a survey discussing percentages. It is also not a case report or single subject research study. Finally, it is not a narrative review, systematic review, or meta-analysis, nor is it an opinion paper or commentary.
So just what is a Professional Theoretical Article? It is a discussion of a theory and/or model that includes how the theory and/or model impacts physiotherapy practice, education, or research. The focus of the article is the theory and implication as opposed to a review of the literature or history timeline.
Professional Theoretical Articles generally do not follow the same structure as quantitative research, qualitative research, descriptive studies, or reviews. There may be an Introduction, but more likely a section described and labeled as Background. Professional Theoretical Articles that are theory generating should include a discussion of how the theory/model was developed, so an appropriate heading would be required. Professional Theoretical Articles that discuss the implications of an existing theory/model should include a section describing it. There is not likely to be a Methods or Results section, however, there may be a Discussion section regarding the implication of the theory or model. Can a descriptive or systematic review be used to support the development of the theory? Yes, but once again the focus is on the theory and the implication and not on the review.
In most cases, to enhance impact, there will be a figure/illustration regarding the model and perhaps another figure clearly depicting how the theory impacts practice, education, or research. While a figure or illustration is not a requirement, it is encouraged to help our readers understand the theoretical model and its implications.
While the structure of a Professional Theoretical Article is intentionally flexible, authors are encouraged to review past issues of the journal to identify previously published Professional Theoretical Articles to help guide their submission. If your article is not focused on theory, consider submitting your work in another category. In addition, please do follow the guidelines of the journal for citing and referencing. Improper formatting delays review and potential publication of any article.
We consider theory development an extremely important area for physiotherapy, thus the emphasis for the title of the journal – Physiotherapy Theory and Practice.