https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/87668 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 04:47:07 GMT 2026-06-23T04:47:07Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/99151 Title: Management of mild to moderate osteoarthritis : an insight into the perspectives of physiotherapists and general practitioners Abstract: Research question: How do General Practitioners and Physiotherapists manage mild to moderate osteoarthritis in the local primary health care? Design: A complementarity mixed method design using surveys, an interview and a focus group. Methods: A vignette-based survey was sent to all general practitioners and physiotherapists working in Malta. The quantitative data was analysed via descriptive statistics and the open-ended questions were analysed through a thematic analysis. A semi-structured interview was conducted with a key-person who bridges primary and secondary care. The data collected was analysed using thematic analysis. Data convergence labels were also used to merge the two data sets, from which topics were developed as discussion points for a focus group, in which three general practitioners and three physiotherapists participated. A thematic analysis was then carried out for the data collected from the focus group. Results: In this study it was observed that although general practitioners and physiotherapists take a detailed history and a thorough clinical examination, there is nonetheless a significant reliance on the use of medical imaging for diagnosing osteoarthritis. Although pharmacological treatment is prescribed according to guidelines, such treatment is generally being offered before non-pharmacological treatment, at odds with recommended guidance. A sub-optimal level of communication between professionals was also perceived. Conclusion: The findings from this research study suggest a need for further professional education for general practitioners and physiotherapists on diagnosing and conservative treatment approaches in osteoarthritis. Although many professionals are aware of the recommended guidelines, there is lack of congruency in clinical practice, in the information that is being imparted to the patients together with a sub-optimal level of communication between professionals. With an increasing aging population, it is crucial to target osteoarthritis at its earliest stages as this will have an impact on the long-term quality of life of the patient. Description: M.Sc.(Melit.) Fri, 01 Jan 2021 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/99151 2021-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/87787 Title: Barriers and facilitators of adherence to a physiotherapeutic exercise programme in postpartum women with diastasis recti abdominis : a qualitative research Abstract: Abstract: Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) is a prevalent complication of pregnancy. Studies show that physiotherapeutic rehabilitation is an effective way of treating this condition. Currently, one major problem physiotherapists face at Mater Dei Hospital is the non-adherence to physiotherapeutic treatments in postpartum women suffering from DRA. The current study aims to identify the barriers and facilitators which affect patient adherence in this population. The present study used a qualitative research methodology through a self-designed interview. The raw data from the interviews were analysed through thematic analysis, and the following themes were identified: (i) Physiotherapy related factors, (ii) Patient related factors, and (iii) Social factors. The significance of each theme was discussed, and the implications of these findings may improve physiotherapy services in women’s health at MDH in the future. Description: B.Sc. (Hons)(Melit.) Fri, 01 Jan 2021 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/87787 2021-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/87785 Title: People living with idiopathic scoliosis Abstract: Introduction: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) affects the spinal curvature and may have an impact on the exercise tolerance of AIS patients. This study focused on comparing AIS patients’ performance during the incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) to a control group. Methodology: Participants who attend the Orthopedic Outpatient Department (OOP) at Mater Dei Hospital (MDH) were recruited to perform two ISWTs, by walking around two cones 10 meters apart, with the pace set at increments by an audio signal played on a CD. Data analysis: Data was collected before and after the ISWT. The recorded variables were distance walked, predicted maximal oxygen consumption (peak VO2), heart rate, Borg scale, Rate of Perceived exertion (RPE), and oxygen saturation in the blood (SpO2). This data was added to an excel sheet and analyzed through SPSS. Results/conclusion: The results obtained showed a trend of decreased exercise tolerance in the Maltese AIS participants when compared to control groups as they demonstrated decreased distance walked and Peak VO2, compared to age and gender matched control groups. Description: B.Sc. (Hons)(Melit.) Fri, 01 Jan 2021 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/87785 2021-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/87759 Title: The accessibility of fitness centres in Malta Abstract: Accessibility of fitness centres is a concept which has not been studied in great detail both in Europe and in Malta. The aim of this research study is to investigate the level of accessibility of fitness centres in Malta to gain a better understanding of this situation in our country and to highlight the importance of physical activity in everyday life to aid both psychologically as well as physically. Around 29 fitness centres were contacted to take part in an interview-led questionnaire. Out of the sample contacted, 13 fitness centres accepted. The accessibility Instrument for Measuring Fitness and Recreational Environments (AIMFREE) was used which consisted of 12 sub-sections. An average accessibility score was given for each fitness centre and for each section. The data was then presented through the use of histograms and was discussed accordingly. The study found that overall accessibility in Maltese fitness centres was satisfactory in areas such as access routes and entrance areas, equipment as well as professional behaviour. However, accessibility was not satisfactory in areas such as elevators, bathrooms and parking. No particular trend was identified across other studies since not all countries had the same representation of accessibility. One could therefore conclude that, even though there were areas which proved to be accessible even when compared to other studies, there is still room for improvement as far as awareness is concerned and more studies should be performed regarding this issue. Description: B.Sc. (Hons)(Melit.) Fri, 01 Jan 2021 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/87759 2021-01-01T00:00:00Z