Aiding patient adherence to physiotherapist-prescribed self-management strategies: an evidence-based behavioural model in practice

Abstract

Self-management strategies are regularly prescribed by physiotherapists and can play an important role in the overall treatment plan for many patients. However, patient non-adherence to self-management is recognised as a significant barrier to the integrity of prescribed treatment plans. Physiotherapists are ideally placed to encourage patient self-management and facilitate adherence to these evidence-based strategies. The translation of best evidence into clinical practice is integral to the continued development of physiotherapy. We propose a six-step behavioural model based on current evidence on how to best aid, or ‘nudge’ patient adherence to physiotherapist-prescribed self-management strategies. We also suggest ways in which this model can be incorporated into routine physiotherapy practice.

Keywords:

• Self-management
• Patient adherence
• Physiotherapy
• Behavioural change
• Communication