Podiatrists in domiciliary private practice

Walker, Angela and Craddock, Deborah (2006) Podiatrists in domiciliary private practice. British Journal of Podiatry, 9 (2), 40-44.

Abstract

Risk factors for musculoskeletal complaints have been identified within podiatric practice however the prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints and associated risk factors within domiciliary podiatry is currently overlooked by the literature. The aims of this study were to investigate the prevalence of these conditions within domiciliary practice; practitioners’ opinions on factors that exacerbate the incidence and severity of musculoskeletal complaints including back pain; and strategies to reduce the incidence and severity of complaints. Using a qualitative paradigm a purposive sample of 12 private practitioners working in domiciliary practice were interviewed. The data emerging following these semi-structured interviews was then thematically analysed using a constant comparative method. The main themes that emerged indicated a high incidence of musculoskeletal complaints, with neck shoulder and lower back pain frequently reported. The risk factors for musculoskeletal complaints within domiciliary podiatry are emphasised and strategies to minimise these risks suggested, facilitating a reduction in the incidence of musculoskeletal complaints experienced by podiatrists in domiciliary practice.

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