CONHECIMENTO DOS ESTUDANTES DE FISIOTERAPIA SOBRE PRÁTICAS INTEGRATIVAS E COMPLEMENTARES

Abstract

The study explores the knowledge of physiotherapy students regarding Integrative and Complementary Practices (ICPs). To investigate, an online survey using Google Forms was distributed to 101 physiotherapy students. This questionnaire included 11 questions covering various aspects related to ICPs. The study aimed to assess the level of awareness among physiotherapy students regarding different modalities of ICPs. The research indicated that the majority of students have knowledge about ICPs and believe in their value as valid approaches to healthcare. However, only a portion reported using these practices, highlighting the need for continuous education and awareness among students. The inclusion of ICPs in the course curriculum is considered important by most participants. There is also a positive perception of ICPs as an enriching component of professional training, but there is a need for specific research on the integration of these practices in physiotherapy. Furthermore, it is important for students to have a better understanding of regulations governing complementary therapies and for there to be collaboration between users, healthcare professionals, and managers to improve the implementation of ICPs in primary healthcare.