Article
The Role of Physical Therapists in Pediatric Health Promotion and Obesity Prevention: Comparison of Attitudes
Pediatric Physical Therapy
(2011)
Abstract
Purpose: To identify attitudes of teachers, parents, and physical therapists (PTs) toward PTs' roles in health promotion (HP), obesity prevention (OP), and physical activity (PA) for preschoolers.
Methods: Surveys (n = 618) were distributed to preschools and pediatric PTs.
Results: Overall response rate was 42%. Dietitians or physicians were selected as most knowledgeable about HP/OP/PA. Teachers were selected as most appropriate to educate preschoolers, whereas PTs were identified as appropriate to educate parents and teachers about HP/OP/PA. Most respondents were unaware of PTs' involvement in HP/OP/PA.
Conclusions: Physical therapist expertise is underrecognized and underused for pediatric HP/OP/PA. Parents and teachers are open to PT's involvement. Physical therapists need to improve awareness and become involved.
Keywords
- Physical therapy,
- Pediatric obesity,
- Pediatrics
Disciplines
Publication Date
Spring 2011
DOI
10.1097/PEP.0b013e31820979fb
Publisher Statement
At the time of publication Christopher L. Petrosino was affiliated with Walsh University.
Citation Information
Amy M. Schlessman, Kathy Martin, Pamela D. Ritzline and Christopher L. Petrosino. "The Role of Physical Therapists in Pediatric Health Promotion and Obesity Prevention: Comparison of Attitudes" Pediatric Physical Therapy Vol. 23 Iss. 1 (2011) p. 79 - 86 Available at: http://works.bepress.com/christopher-petrosino/1/