A Survey of Israeli Physical Therapists Regarding Perturbation-Based Balance Training

Abstract Background: ‘Perturbation-based balance training’ was developed to improve balance reactions to unexpected losses of balance. Although this training method is effective, its practical usage in the field of physical-therapy in Israel and world-wide is still unclear. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the extent of perturbation-based balance training use in physical-therapy clinics in Israel, to identify the significant barriers to/facilitators for implementing perturbation-based balance training in clinical practice among physical therapists, and to determine which aspects of perturbation-based balance training most interest physical therapists in Israel. Methods: Physical therapists in Israel completed a survey using a questionnaire regarding their knowledge and use of perturbation-based balance training in their clinical practices. We compared the specific use of perturbation-based balance training among users; non-users; and open-to-use physical therapists. The odds ratios of the facilitators and barriers were calculated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. Results: Four-hundred and two physical therapists responded to a yes/no question regarding their use of perturbation-based balance training. Three-quarters (75.4%) of physical therapists reported using perturbation-based balance training in their practices. The most prevalent barrier cited was insufficient space for setting up equipment and most prevalent facilitator was having a colleague who uses perturbation-based balance training. Most of the respondents wanted to learn more about perturbation-based balance training, and most of the non-users wanted to expand their knowledge and mastery of perturbation-based balance training principles. Conclusions: There are misconceptions and insufficient knowledge about perturbation-based balance training among physical therapists in Israel. Reliable information may help to improve general knowledge regarding perturbation-based balance training, and to facilitate the more widespread implementation of perturbation-based balance training as an effective fall-prevention intervention method.