title: Observations and recommendations on the investigation of clinical decision-making and usage involving electrophysical agents.
abstract: Electrophysical agents (EPAs), including electrotherapy, are important components of patient/client management. A recent study by Springer et al. has elucidated the pattern of use and factors in clinical decision-making by Israeli physiotherapists regarding EPAs. It is evident from their data that EPAs, especially those related to electrotherapy, are still considered relevant to physiotherapy practice. Included in this commentary are observations on the findings of the current study, as well as recommendations on an alternative approach to the investigation of clinical decision-making and usage of EPAs. Discussion also includes a proposed and apparent de-emphasis of EPAs in physiotherapy education and practice in the USA, which may impact some of the factors found in the current study to be relevant in clinical decision-making and usage for EPAs.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physical Therapy, MGH Institute of Health Professions, 36 1st Avenue, Charlestown Navy Yard, Boston, MA 02129 USA.
authors.forename: David M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Selkowitz
keywords: Clinical decision-making; Electrophysical agents; Electrotherapy; Physiotherapy