Global Overview of the Models of Physiotherapy Practice: A need for integration towards better patient care

Abstract

Self-reported chronic conditions have a negative impact on quality of life globally. Indeed, it constitutes the most common reason for visits to the physiotherapist. This emerging development calls for the integration of available physiotherapy models with a view to suggesting a way forward in patient care. Biomedical and biopsychosocial models are the main treatment approaches in medical practice and are also applicable in physiotherapy. However, the former seems to receive more attention than the latter in physiotherapy practice. Although, tissue repair is paramount in the restoration of function, the attainment of the pre-morbid health status of patients may remain a mirage unless there is a holistic approach to patient management. Considering the relevance of physiotherapy in alleviating long-term chronic pain and dysfunction in patients, there is the need to re-visit different existing models in clinical practice with a view to integrating them for better health care service.