Validation of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) core set for post-acute musculoskeletal conditions in a primary care physiotherapy setting from the perspective of patients using focus groups

Abstract

Purpose

To validate the comprehensive ICF core set for post-acute musculoskeletal conditions from the perspective of patients in a primary care physiotherapy setting.

Materials and methods

A qualitative study was conducted with patients suffering from musculoskeletal problems. A phenomenological approach based on focus groups was used to identify the most relevant aspects related to physical therapy care in their condition. The data were analyzed using a meaning condensation procedure, identifying relevant themes and concepts. The identified concepts were linked to the ICF and compared to the ICF core set for post-acute musculoskeletal conditions.

Results

Forty-three patients were included in eight focus groups. A total of 1281 relevant concepts were extracted and related to 156 ICF second-level entities. Entities in the ICF core set for post-acute musculoskeletal conditions were 95.7% confirmed. Eighty-nine additional second-level ICF entities were identified.

Conclusions

Entities in the ICF core set for post-acute musculoskeletal conditions are relevant to patients seen in primary care physical therapy units. However, there are areas of functioning related to community health care not covered by this ICF-based tool.

IMPLICATIONS OF REHABILITATION

• An ICF-based framework is feasible for the assessment of musculoskeletal conditions.

• Post-acute musculoskeletal ICF core set was confirmed in patient focus groups.

• Additional ICF categories emerged for a primary care physical therapy setting.

• Community features of functioning could be addressed by a tailored ICF core set.

Keywords:

• Core set
• focus groups
• physical therapy
• primary care
• musculoskeletal conditions
• international classification of functioning

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to acknowledge the collaboration of Raquel García-Ruiz, Alicia Prieto-López, Marta Pérez-Alonso, and Bruno Blanco-Varga in recruiting participants and organizing focus groups.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This study was supported by a grant from the Regional Health Administration of Castilla y León (SACYL) with expedient number GRS 2489/B/22.