Adverse events related to physiotherapy practice: a scoping review

Abstract

Introduction: While adverse events related to physiotherapy are possible, the type of adverse event and the area of physiotherapy practice in which they occur are not well understood. The purpose of this scoping review was to establish adverse events related to physiotherapy practice and understand the nature of these events and the circumstances in which they occurred.

Methods: Relevant literature from January 2014 to February 2024 was gathered from five electronic databases. Studies reporting adverse events within any physiotherapy practice (intervention or assessment) were eligible. Two reviewers independently assessed title and abstract, and full texts. Findings were synthesised by clinical streams.

Results: A total of 58 studies met the inclusion criteria. Common adverse events described in musculoskeletal physiotherapy involving manual therapy, exercise and electrotherapy were increased pain and stiffness. Cardiorespiratory physiotherapy interventions involving early mobilisation, exercise and airway clearance therapy reported desaturation and haemodynamic instability. Neurological physiotherapy studies reported falls and fatigue during gait and balance training and exercise. Oncology and aged care interventions involving exercise, balance training and lymphoedema management reported increased pain and muscle strain while studies including pelvic floor muscle training reported the adverse event of vaginal discomfort.

Conclusion: This review identified adverse events occurring during physiotherapy interventions or assessment procedures. Increased monitoring and proactive safety measures may be necessary to ensure patient safety during these treatments.