title: The contribution of conceptual frameworks to knowledge translation interventions in physical therapy.
abstract: There is growing recognition of the importance of knowledge translation activities in physical therapy to ensure that research findings are integrated into clinical practice, and increasing numbers of knowledge translation interventions are being conducted. Although various frameworks have been developed to guide and facilitate the process of translating knowledge into practice, these tools have been infrequently used in physical therapy knowledge translation studies to date. Knowledge translation in physical therapy implicates multiple stakeholders and environments and involves numerous steps. In light of this complexity, the use of explicit conceptual frameworks by clinicians and researchers conducting knowledge translation interventions is associated with a range of potential benefits. This perspective article argues that such frameworks are important resources to promote the uptake of new evidence in physical therapist practice settings. Four key benefits associated with the use of conceptual frameworks in designing and implementing knowledge translation interventions are identified, and limits related to their use are considered. A sample of 5 conceptual frameworks is evaluated, and how they address common barriers to knowledge translation in physical therapy is assessed. The goal of this analysis is to provide guidance to physical therapists seeking to identify a framework to support the design and implementation of a knowledge translation intervention. Finally, the use of a conceptual framework is illustrated through a case example. Increased use of conceptual frameworks can have a positive impact on the field of knowledge translation in physical therapy and support the development and implementation of robust and effective knowledge translation interventions that help span the research-practice gap.
authors: A. Hudon, PT, MSc, PhD candidate in Rehabilitation Sciences, School of Rehabilitation, Université de Montréal, and Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Mailing address: École de Réadaptation, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, C.P. 6128, succ. Centre-Ville, Montreal, Quebec, H3C 3J7 Canada. anne.hudon@umontreal.ca.
authors: Anne
authors: A
authors: Hudon
authors: M-J. Gervais, PhD candidate, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, CJM-IU-UQÀM Chair on Knowledge Translation in the Field of Child and Family Welfare.
authors: Mathieu-Joël
authors: MJ
authors: Gervais
authors: M. Hunt, PT, PhD, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal, and Assistant Professor, School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
authors: Matthew
authors: M
authors: Hunt
mesh_terms: D004059:Diffusion of Innovation; D006801:Humans; D019982:Organizational Case Studies; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities / Q000592:standards*; D026761:Physical Therapy Specialty / Q000193:education / Q000592:standards; D057170:Translational Research, Biomedical / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000592:standards