Physical therapists in the world of fitness industry: challenges and paradigm shifts during pandemic
Date of Completion
2023
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy
Keywords
Fitness Industry, Pandemic
Abstract
Traditionally, Sports Physical Therapy practices are being conducted in physical facilities, which involves direct engagement and interaction between patient and physical therapist. Although, with the events following corona virus disease 2019 pandemic, different establishments are required to adhere to stringent measures, including the implementation of limited in-person interactions, to mitigate the risk of viral transmission. This led to cessation of operations in fitness centers, gyms, and rehabilitation facilities and brought about significant alterations and shifts in various facets of PT practice including how PTs approach, cater, and deliver fitness services to their clients during the pandemic. The main objective of this study is to determine the challenges experienced by PTs during the pandemic and to investigate the paradigm shifts in the practice of PTs prior and during the pandemic, along with its contributory factors. Using a descriptive qualitative research design, the pandemic, along with its contributory factors. Using a descriptive qualitative research design, the experiences of seven (7) licensed PTs in the Philippines were examined through one-on-one interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire. The obtained data was analyzed using thematic analysis incorporating an inductive approach, to identify key themes related to the research objectives. The study reveals four comprehensive themes, and 54 subthemes which includes experiences prior to and during the pandemic as to online practices and operations, perceptions and adaptability of PTs, and PT-client relationships, and factors such as transportation disruption, patientrelated considerations, psychological factors, and economic downturn which has contributed to the challenges and paradigm shifts experienced by sports PTs during the COVID-19 pandemic. This research provides valuable insights into the impact of the pandemic on sports PTs profession and addresses the pa
First Advisor
Mary Angelica V. Legaspi
APA Citation
Aquino, H. A., Asis, A. L., Cantal, A. P., Centina, T. B., De Gala, L. B., Garcia, A. T., Garcia, J. V., Pataueg, A. D., & Vitug, J. B. (2023). Physical therapists in the world of fitness industry: challenges and paradigm shifts during pandemic. [Bachelor's thesis, De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute]. GreenPrints. https://greenprints.dlshsi.edu.ph/bspt/898