The barriers of scientific research in physiotherapy.

Objective: Scientific discoveries and updates are increasingly needed to enhance how healthcare is conducted and implemented for various specialties. Research in physiotherapy in Kuwait is limited. The study aimed to explore the barriers to research in physiotherapy in Kuwait.

Methods: A cross-sectional research design and an online questionnaire method were used. The ethics committee of Kuwait's Ministry of Health approved the study (ref. 2019/1076). The questionnaire was constructed on the basis of an intensive literature review. Expert committee meetings were held to approve the items and review the content, accuracy and construction. The questionnaire consisted of four domains: participants' characteristics, research background, research barriers and encouragement for future research.

Results: Of the 311 physiotherapists who responded to the questionnaire, 67% were women, and 80% were 25-44 years of age. A total of 55% of the participants read academic articles monthly. The major research barriers were lack of time (45%), followed by lack of research skills (41%) and lack of resources (40%). Other identified factors included workload (29%), difficulties in gaining ethical approval (27%), lack of motivation (26%), lack of support (25%), lack of participants (22%) and lifetime responsibilities (21%). Respondents indicated that encouragement for future research came from research workshops and lectures (75%), awards and recognition (52%), and encouragement from the department heads (45%).

Conclusion: Physiotherapy research can be advanced in Kuwait by targeting the barriers identified herein, to strengthen physiotherapy research and advance the physiotherapy profession.