Objectives: The irrational and extensive use of antibiotics has substantially contributed to the rise of antibiotic resistance among bacterial pathogens worldwide. In developing countries, such as India, easy access to antibiotics without prescriptions further accelerates this problem. Comprehending the public’s awareness, perceptions, and behaviors concerning antibiotic usage and resistance is crucial for creating successful interventions. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among the general public in Sri Potti Sriramulu Nellore District, Andhra Pradesh, involving 182 participants, to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use and resistance. The validated questionnaire covered demographic characteristics, knowledge of antibiotics, mechanisms of action, resistance and side effects, attitudes and practices, doctor–patient interactions, and sources of antibiotic information. Results: Although most respondents were familiar with antibiotics, substantial misconceptions were found. More than half of the participants (59.9%, n = 109) mistakenly thought that antibiotics work on viral infections and relieve pain or fever. Awareness of antibiotic resistance was limited, with only 49.5% ( n = 90) recognizing the concept, and nearly half attributing resistance to misuse, overuse, and self-medication. Overall, 72.5% ( n = 132) of the respondents demonstrated adequate knowledge, while 27.5% ( n = 50) had inadequate knowledge. Adequate knowledge was significantly associated with positive attitudes toward antibiotic use (86.4% of respondents). However, inappropriate practices persisted, with 48.4% ( n = 88) of the respondents reporting that they had requested antibiotic prescriptions from physicians. Conclusion: Despite generally good knowledge levels, attitudes and practices related to antibiotic use were suboptimal. These findings highlight the gap between knowledge and behavior. Strengthening antibiotic awareness campaigns, improving patient counseling, enforcing pharmacy regulations, and promoting responsible prescribing are critical for curbing inappropriate antibiotic use and combating antibiotic resistance.
Objectives: The objective of the study is to compare the effectiveness of quadripolar with bipolar amplitude-modulated frequency (AMF) Interferential therapy (IFT) in reducing pain level and improving functional status in patients with lower back pain (LBP). Material and Methods: This randomized control trial was conducted over 10 months at the physiotherapy outpatient department, Sri Ramachandra Hospital, Chennai. A total of 120 adults with mechanical LBP were randomized into two groups receiving either quadripolar or bipolar AMF IFT, along with standardized exercises for 2 weeks. Pain and disability outcomes were assessed using the numeric pain rating scale and the Oswestry Disability Index. Statistical analysis was performed using paired and independent t -tests with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences v23. Results: Out of 120 participants, 102 completed the study. Both groups produced better pain reduction using IFT and standardized exercises. However, the quadripolar AMF group demonstrated statistically greater improvements ( p < 0.001), exceeding the minimum clinically important difference. Conclusion: Quadripolar AMF IFT, along with exercises, is more effective than bipolar AMF in treating LBP patients over a short-term period. These findings support the clinical relevance of frequency-specific IFT in optimizing physiotherapy protocols for LBP management.
