Relationship between physical activity and perceived stress in physiotherapists

Abstract

Purpose: Physiotherapists are the most directly involved health professionals to support the patient both emotionally and physically. Increased physical activity is important to cope with perceived stress. It can be helpful to know physical activity level of physiotherapists to cope perceived stress. The aim the study was to examine the relationship between physical activity and perceived stress in physiotherapists.

Methods: Ninety-six (66 females, 30 males) physiotherapists (median age: 28 years) were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Physical activity level was determined using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form. Perceived stress was questioned by the Perceived Stress Scale.

Results: The results showed that 38.5% (n=37) of the physiotherapists were physically inactive, 56.3% (n=54) were moderately active, and only 5.2% (n=5) were active. A negative significant correlation was found between perceived stress scores and physical activity level (r=-0.275, p=0.007).

Conclusion: According to the results of this study, less physical activity level is associated with higher level of perceived stress in physiotherapists. The approaches to increase physical activity in physiotherapists may reduce perceived stress.

Keywords

• Physical activity,Psychological stress,Physiotherapist

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