Physical therapy in patients with systemic sclerosis: physical therapists' perspectives on current delivery and educational needs.

Objective: To assess the perspectives of physical therapists treating patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) on their current practice and educational needs.

Method: In July 2019, 405 SSc patients attending a multidisciplinary SSc programme received a survey on physical therapy. Patients who indicated having received physical therapy in the past 2 years were asked to invite their treating physical therapist to complete a questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics, referral process, content of treatment, perceived knowledge and skills, and educational needs (mostly yes/no answers).

Physical Therapy in Systemic Sclerosis: The Patient Perspective.

Objective: To assess the use, satisfaction, needs, and preferences regarding physical therapy (PT) in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Methods: A total of 405 SSc patients, treated in the Leiden University Medical Center multidisciplinary care program and fulfilling American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) 2013 SSc criteria, received a questionnaire containing 37 questions on use and satisfaction regarding PT over a 2-year period, and their needs and preferences for future PT.

Results: A total of 204 SSc patients (median age 63 years, 81% female) completed the questionnaire.