Abstract
It is increasingly acknowledged that patients' and practitioners' beliefs, attitudes, expectations and preferences might play important roles in determining the clinical course and outcome for common musculoskeletal problems. This paper provides a summary of the reasons why it could be important to consider the beliefs, attitudes, expectations and preferences of both patients and healthcare practitioners, using data about physiotherapists and the treatment they provide for musculoskeletal problems where possible. The paper reviews some of the evidence for the role of these factors principally from available clinical trials and systematic reviews and concludes with key messages for both clinical practice and future research.