This statistic shows the number of pharmacists in the United States from 2001 to 2016. In 2001, there were 126,450 physical therapists employed in the United States. In 2016, there were 216,920 physical therapists employed.

An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out among Physiotherapists collegiates in Spain, who have worked for at least 3 months in direct care with patients. The aim of this study is to know the percentage of physiotherapists suffering from type two violence (sexual, physical or psychological/verbal violence in their clinical role) in Spain, as well as professional, clinical or personal variables that might be related to violence prevalence against physiotherapists by patients or their relatives/companions. In addition, the responses offered by the physical therapists and their perception of the results obtained have been consulted, as well as any personal consequences at health and work.

The study was emailed though Physiotherapists´ Colleges and/or disseminated through their webs from January to March 2022. Data were collected through an online form. After being informed of the objectives of the study, they voluntarily completed the data though an anonymous questionnaire. Data confidentiality was ensured through the use of Microsoft Forms software (Microsoft Office, Microsoft Corporation, USA) pursuant to an agreement with the University of A Coruña. The whole description of the methodology used has been published in: “Elaboración de un cuestionario sobre violencia(s) sufrida(s) por profesionales del ámbito de la Fisioterapia” [Developing a questionnaire about violence(s) suffered by professionals in the field of Physiotherapy] in Revista espanola de salud publica 97: e202306048 (2023-06-09). PMID: 37293946. ISSN (electronic): 2173-9110.

Additional related data collected that was not included in the current data package:2.942 respondents who agreed to participate and who had treated patients were obtained, but 9 answers were eliminated because of inconsistence in answers or because few cases of sex other were present, resulting 2.933 cases. In addition, some changes in presentation of data has been made: information on the autonomous community of origin and description of violent episodes by physiotherapists in their own words were eliminated. Age and clinical experience were collected in years but have been regrouped due to ethical restrictions; also, practice settings with low number of responses were included in the category “others” in order to protect anonymity.

Responses with inconsistencies (for example, between age and clinical experience) were excluded. Due to ethical restrictions, some questions have been eliminated or regrouped to guarantee anonymity.

Keywords: Workplace Violence, Prevalence, Physical Therapy, Risk factors (associated factors); Sexual harassment, physical abuse, job satisfaction

Information about funding sources or sponsorship that supported the collection of the data: This work has been sponsored by the General Council of Colleges of Physiotherapists in Spain.[Consejo General de Colegios de Fisioterapeutas de España]. Resources from Universidade da Coruña (University of A Coruna) have been employed. It has been also supported by MICINN grant PID2020-113578RB-I00, the Xunta de Galicia (Grupos de Referencia Competitiva ED431C-2020-14). We wish to acknowledge the support received from the Centro de Investigación de Galicia “CITIC”, funded by Xunta de Galicia and the European Union.

Citation for and links to publications that cite or use the data: Boo-Mallo, T., Pérez-Caramés, A., Domínguez-Rodríguez, A., Oviedo-de-la-Fuente, M., Martínez-Rodríguez, A. Violence towards physical therapists in Spain, database from a national survey. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10599701

The purpose of this study was to assess whether the CT skills measured by the GRE match those deemed by an expert panel as the most important to assess for PTE program acceptance. Using a modified E-Delphi approach, a 3-phase survey was distributed over 8 weeks to a panel consisting of licensed US physical therapists with expertise on CT and PTE program directors.

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Physiotherapy Market Size 2025-2029

The physiotherapy market size is forecast to increase by USD 16.41 billion at a CAGR of 5.8% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to several key factors. The increasing number of healthcare providers and advancements in healthcare facilities are driving market expansion. However, challenges such as less insurance coverage and medical reimbursement pose a threat to market growth. Despite these challenges, the market is expected to continue its upward trajectory as the demand for physiotherapy services continues to rise.
The growing aging population and increasing prevalence of chronic diseases are fueling this demand. Additionally, the adoption of technology in physiotherapy, such as telehealth and wearable devices, is transforming the way care is delivered, making it more accessible and convenient for patients. Overall, the market is poised for continued growth, with opportunities in areas such as telehealth, home health, and outpatient clinics.

What will be the Physiotherapy Market Size During the Forecast Period?

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The market encompasses the provision of physiotherapy services to address various movement and function issues, including those related to old age, injury, pain, and disorders. This market caters to medical specialists and physical therapists who help patients manage chronic diseases, improve functional mobility, and rehabilitate from injuries and road accidents. The aging population, with its increased prevalence of chronic diseases and disabilities, fuels market growth.
Additionally, unhealthy eating habits, stressful lifestyles, and improper posture contribute to an increasing demand for physiotherapy services. Physiotherapy addresses a range of conditions, from ligament and nerve injuries to muscle strains and disorders affecting the back, neck, and even conditions like stroke, Parkinson's disease, and injuries resulting from road accidents. Physiotherapy devices and home healthcare careers further expand the market's reach, offering solutions for patients requiring continuous care.

How is this Physiotherapy Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The physiotherapy industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Application

  Musculoskeletal
  Cardiovascular and pulmonary
  Neurological
  Pediatric
  Others


Type

  Physiotherapy services
  Physiotherapy equipment and accessories


Geography

  North America

    Canada
    US


  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France
    Denmark


  Asia

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Application Insights

The musculoskeletal segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role In the restoration of movement and function for individuals dealing with injuries, illnesses, or impairments. Musculoskeletal physiotherapy, a specialized area within this field, focuses on treating conditions related to muscles, joints, and soft tissues. This branch of physiotherapy can effectively address various injuries, such as ligament sprains, muscle strains, arthritis, cartilage tears, and post-surgery rehabilitation. By providing assessments and targeted treatments, physiotherapists help optimize healing and alleviate swelling. Musculoskeletal physiotherapy encompasses a broad scope, catering to various age groups, including the elderly population, and addressing disorders like back pain. Physiotherapy services are essential for individuals with chronic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity, which can impact functional mobility.

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The musculoskeletal segment was valued at USD 22.67 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

North America is estimated to contribute 43% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The market encompasses various specializations, including Orthopaedic, Geriatric, Cardiovascular and Pulmonary, Integumentary, Neurological, Paediatric, Women's Health, Palliative Care, Musculoskeletal, Neuromuscular, and Rehabilitation centers. In 2022, North America held the largest market share due to advanced healthcare infrastructure, an increasing aging population, and high disposable income. Chronic diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and unhealthy eating habits, along with hectic

We aimed to identify the factors influencing the success of Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) in chronic musculoskeletal (MSK) pain from the perspective of those experiencing PNE first-hand. We conducted a meta-synthesis of qualitative studies. Articles were found on MEDLINE via Pubmed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINHAL, and PsycINFO up to April 2023. Eligible qualitative studies focussed on adults (>16 years old) with a diagnosis of chronic primary or secondary MSK pain who performed PNE. Thematic synthesis by Thomas and Harden was followed. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool ensured the quality of the studies, while the Confidence in Evidence from the Reviews of Qualitative Research (CERQual) approach facilitated data confidence assessment. Nine studies were included (188 participants). Three analytical themes were developed: (i) “Efficient Communication of Information”, emphasising the importance of accurate content transmission; (ii) “Emotional Support and Well-being”, recognising emotional aspects as integral to treatment; and (iii) “Empowerment Promotion”, focusing on information retention and personal transformation. The studies showed good quality, with moderate confidence in the evidence. The perceived factors influencing the success of PNE are intricately related to the domain of communication, the emotional dimension of personal experience, and the capacity to be empowered. Tailoring interventions to pain experiences, preferences, and emotions is key for the success of pain neuroscience education;A personalised approach is crucial for effective pain neuroscience education, emphasising the need to understand and address the specific aspects of each patient’s pain journey. Tailoring interventions to pain experiences, preferences, and emotions is key for the success of pain neuroscience education; A personalised approach is crucial for effective pain neuroscience education, emphasising the need to understand and address the specific aspects of each patient’s pain journey.

Abstract Introduction: According to studies from developed countries, post-stroke individuals commonly have a low level of physical activity. Considering the benefits of maintaining a good level of physical activity in these subjects, it is important to provide specific and complete information, based on the assessment of all dimensions of physical activity, which supports interventions. Objective: To compare the physical activity levels between individuals with stroke and matched healthy individuals that use the public health system in Brazil considering the different dimensions of physical activity. Methods: Individuals with stroke (n = 11) and matched healthy individuals (n = 11) were assessed. Physical activity levels, considering all dimensions -duration (> 3 MET), frequency (number of steps) and intensity (mean total energy expenditure per day) - were assessed using SenseWear® monitor for seven days. Descriptive statistics and between-groups comparisons were performed (α = 0.05). Results: The physical activity levels were significantly lower in individuals with stroke when compared to matched healthy individuals, considering all dimensions. The between-group differences in activity duration, frequency, and intensity were 74 minutes/day, 5,274 steps/day, and 2,134kJ/day, respectively. Conclusion: Individuals with stroke users of the Brazilian public health system have lower physical activity levels in different dimensions of physical activity than matched healthy individuals. The assessment of the physical activity level of post-stroke individuals is important for decision making in public health programs.

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Telerehabilitation Systems Market Size 2025-2029

The telerehabilitation systems market size is forecast to increase by USD 718.1 million at a CAGR of 22.2% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing incidence of chronic diseases and the advent of advanced technologies. Telecommunication technologies, such as video conferencing and wearable devices equipped with sensor motion tracking systems, gyroscopes, and robot-assisted rehabilitation, are revolutionizing the delivery of physiotherapy services. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms are being integrated into these systems to provide personalized fitness programs and clinical therapy. Big data in healthcare is also playing a crucial role in improving patient outcomes by enabling data-driven decision-making. Furthermore, the integration of 3D printing and Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies is expected to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of rehabilitation systems. These trends, however, come with challenges, including the complexities in implementing reliable internet connections and ensuring data security. Overall, the healthcare industry is embracing these advancements to improve patient care and accessibility, making the orthopedic rehabilitation market an exciting space to watch.

What will be the Size of the Telerehabilitation Systems Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market, also known as e-rehabilitation, represents a significant growth area in the digital health technologies sector. This market encompasses the use of telecommunication networks, particularly the Internet, to deliver rehabilitation services in various forms, including diagnosis, therapy, and consultation. Medical professionals in fields such as physical therapy, speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, audiology, and others are increasingly leveraging remote communication tools to provide care to patients in homecare settings or remotely.



Telerehabilitation applications span various chronic conditions and diseases, including orthopedic, neurological, and geriatric populations. The market's expansion is driven by the aging population's growing need for healthcare access, the increasing availability of telecommunication infrastructure, and the proliferation of video conferencing, mobile applications, and wearable devices. Remote monitoring, virtual consultation, and software solutions are key components of this market, offering benefits such as improved patient outcomes, enhanced accessibility, and reduced costs.

How is this Telerehabilitation Systems Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Hardware
  Software


Type

  Physical therapy
  Occupational therapy
  Others


End-user

  Homecare
  Hospitals
  Rehabilitation centers
  Specialty clinics


Geography

  North America

    Canada
    US


  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France
    Italy


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America



  Middle East and Africa

By Product Insights

The hardware segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market is primarily driven by the increasing demand for remote rehabilitation services, particularly In the areas of occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech-language therapy, audiology, psychology, and neurological therapy. This trend is attributed to the growing prevalence of disorders such as traumatic brain injury, cerebrovascular accidents, and drug, and alcohol addiction, among others. Digital technologies, including smartphones, internet penetration, and telecommunication networks, have enabled the delivery of clinical therapy, behavioral therapy, and neurological therapy via telecommunication. Medical professionals use remote communication for diagnosis and therapy sessions, employing therapy modalities like clinical assessment, software, engagement, and rehabilitation professionals' tools such as Rehametrics, fitness programs, telephiotherapy, and virtual reality.

The hardware segment, consisting of head-mounted displays (HMDs), sensor motion tracking systems, and haptic devices, dominated the market due to the increasing demand for advanced platforms and systems. Despite the higher initial investment, hardware offers comparatively better performance and will continue to drive market growth. Telehealth policies, AI, and telemedicine policy reforms are expected to further boost the market. Patient satisfaction, continuity of care, and patient-centric care are key considerations In the adoption of telerehabilitation systems. Health data security and insuran

The COVID-19 pandemic that spread across the world at the beginning of 2020 was not only a big threat to public health, but also to the entire youth and amateur sports industry. During a May 2020 survey in the United States, some 54 percent of respondents stated that it was very important that treatment for COVID-19 symptoms became more widely available before their children start competing in organized sports again.

Background: Physiotherapy is a kind of science that helps and supports the patient to live a healthy lifestyle. Physiotherapy working in India, the main source of reference is a medical practitioner. Physiotherapy is defined as a health care professionals dealing with human mobility and function maximizing the quality of one’s life and movement strength within the loop of prevention, promotion, treatment/intervention, habilitation, and rehabilitation. Still, there are people who aren’t aware of the kind of treatment it can provide. Hereby, the objective of this study is to know how much aware the medical practitioners are in terms of the importance and need for physiotherapy for the treatment of the patients. Materials and Methods: Apparently, an approved questionnaire was sent through a Google form link to 250 medical practitioners of Uttar Pradesh. 124 responses were received and analyzed. Out of 124, 71 of the respondents were female and 53 were male. All willing medical practitioners from different streams along with graduates and super specialists were included, whereas students and non-internet users were excluded. Result: From the study, it was learned that there is awareness regarding the term physiotherapy (), but specialization in physiotherapy is less known, maximum of the subjects were aware of specialization in orthopedics and specialization in women’s health, community-based rehabilitation and dermatology is least known. 79% of the medical practitioners have an objection in physiotherapist having the first contact with the patient. Conclusion: The study revealed that there is a lack of awareness regarding assessment and treatment protocol provided by physiotherapy. However, doctors believe physiotherapist has a big role in treating ICU and immobilized patients. There is less information regarding radiation modalities as well as recent advances in rehabilitation.

The Articular Goniometer market plays a crucial role in the healthcare and rehabilitation sectors, where precision in measuring joint angles is essential for both diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. An Articular Goniometer is an instrument used extensively by physical therapists, occupational thera

The Body Surface Electrodes for Physiotherapy market is experiencing a significant transformation, driven by the increasing prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, neurological conditions, and the rising awareness of physiotherapy's role in rehabilitation. These specialized electrodes are crucial for various therap

Osteoarthritis is one of the most prevalent degenerative diseases in the elderly that affects the structural and functional integrity of the musculoskeletal system. Currently, hydrotherapy is taking relevance for osteoarthritis treatment due to its possible efficacy on pain relief and functionality. This therapy can be evaluated by means of an electromyographic analysis. The objective is to show a database of lower limbs muscles electrical activity in charge of postural stability, comparing the difference between hydrotherapy and conventional therapy through surface electromyography. A signal acquisition methodology was developed measuring electromyographic activity of the Tibialis Anterior, Soleus, Vastus Medialis, Biceps Femoris, Medial Gastrocnemius and Lateral Gastrocnemius muscles, before and after applying a specific exercise routine for knee osteoarthritis. This routine consisted of 12 therapy sessions spread over 4 weeks and could be done in water and on land.

The data is organized according to the attendance of 28 patients to the therapy sessions. There are two records per person, before and after each hydrotherapy or physiotherapy session, obtaining a total of 1344 records at the end of the 12 sessions, and 56 data for each session. However, a total of 864 complete records were obtained for both therapies, withdrawing those who missed any of the sessions. There is a personal information database in .CSV format and electromyographic records with a .MAT extension.

This study explores the relevance of integrating mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) into physical rehabilitation services in conflict settings. Symptoms of psychological distress and daily functioning of 132 physical rehabilitation service users in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo were assessed before and after MHPSS. Logistical regression models were used to identify factors associated with these symptoms. Prior to receiving MHPSS, “extreme” symptoms of depression were reported by 64% of the service users. Amputation predicted high levels of depression (aOR 5.12, p = 0.021), anxiety (aOR 7.09, p = 0.004) and stress (aOR 3.37, p = 0.035), while having witnessed violence predicted high symptoms of stress (aOR 3.65, p = 0.014). Lack of social support was associated with high symptoms of stress prior to MHPSS (aOR 3.17, p = 0.046) as well as a large reduction in symptoms of depression following MHPSS (aOR 3.91, p = 0.019). Most physical rehabilitation service users reported a reduction in symptoms of depression (100.00%), anxiety (98.03%) and stress (100.00%) along with improved functioning (81.13%) after MHPSS. MHPSS needs of physical rehabilitation service users in conflict settings stem from the combined impact of disability and exposure to violence. MHPSS care, particularly the mobilization of peer support, appears necessary and relevant.Implications for rehabilitationIn conflict settings, mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) needs of physical rehabilitation service users must address the combined impact of physical disability and exposure to violence.Physical rehabilitation service users who lacked social support prior to receiving MHPSS were more likely to report a large reduction in symptoms of depression following MHPSS.The study underlines the importance of social support, particularly peer support, in addressing MHPSS needs. In conflict settings, mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) needs of physical rehabilitation service users must address the combined impact of physical disability and exposure to violence. Physical rehabilitation service users who lacked social support prior to receiving MHPSS were more likely to report a large reduction in symptoms of depression following MHPSS. The study underlines the importance of social support, particularly peer support, in addressing MHPSS needs.

The Manual Tilt Table market plays a crucial role in various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and education, facilitating an array of applications from physical therapy to ergonomic work solutions. A manual tilt table allows users to adjust the angle of a surface on which patients or materials are pl

We do not dispute the limited evidence for the clinical importance of most imaging findings in acute whiplash. However, we contend it is possible the type and number of findings on acute Computed Tomography (CT) may contribute to prognostic recovery models. Our purpose is to interpret cervical spine pathologies in the context of other known factors influencing whiplash recovery.

Findings provide foundation that acute CT findings may contribute to recovery prediction models, especially where 3 or more findings are identified. Such work offers new research directives towards considering multivariate and multisystem factors in establishing prognostic profiles for acutely injured patients and may lead to new intervention targets to prevent chronicity.

The UK Parkinson's Audit assesses care provided to people with Parkinson's by a range of clinical specialties against evidence-based guidelines.

The physiotherapy audit includes services which provide care to people in connection with their Parkinson's. Services submit data on their model of service delivery and the assessments which are routinely carried out (service audit) and data on the care provided over the last 12 months to at least twenty of their consecutive patients seen during the five-month data collection period (patient audit). No patient identifiers are collected.

The audit is open to services across the UK - secondary care (non-acute) and community services. A service is self-defined and can consist of a single therapist or a group of therapists seeing the same cohort of patients. There can therefore be more than one service taking part in any Trust or setting.

The 2019 audit includes data from 153 physiotherapy services covering 2099 patient cases.

The data is available by UK Parkinson's Excellence Network region. The UK Parkinson's Excellence Network is a network of health and social care professionals working to improve Parkinson's services administered with support from Parkinson's UK. Professionals can join the Network to access resources, increase their knowledge of Parkinson's and collaborate with people affected by Parkinson's to transform health and care services.

The audit is the recognised quality improvement tool for the Excellence Network, providing an important baseline against which progress can be measured, informing national, regional and local service improvement priorities and plans to achieve better services for people living with the condition.

The regions are:

England: Cheshire and Merseyside East of England East Midlands Greater Manchester, Lancashire and South Cumbria London North East and Cumbria Peninsula South East Coast South West Thames Valley Wessex West Midlands Yorkshire and Humber

Scotland: North Scotland South and East Scotland West Scotland

Northern Ireland: Northern Ireland

Wales: North and Mid Wales South Wales

Other: Guernsey Isle of Man Republic of Ireland

Information about the regions can be found here: https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/professionals/local-parkinsons-excellence-network-groups

ABSTRACT This study aimed to identify the main adverse effects observed by physical therapists using electrothermal phototherapy devices in clinics in the city of Cascavel, Paraná. The sample comprised 35 clinics, of which 25 were submitted to data collection after sorting. Data were collected through questionnaires in the form of semi-structured interview. In these questionnaires, the responsible for providing the electrothermal phototherapy service were asked about the occurrence of adverse effects experienced during labor activities at the clinic. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) showed problems in 64% of cases, being 36% due to skin irritations and 28% due to pain. The shortwave apparatus showed adverse effects in 60% of cases, of which 40% consisted of complaints of pain and 20% caused minor burns. Regarding therapeutic ultrasound, adverse effects were reported in 52% of cases, of which 32% were episodes of pain and 20% of nausea. The low-power laser therapy showed adverse effect on 36% of cases, with reports of increased local sensitivity. Finally, the medium frequency devices had adverse effect in only 20% of cases, being complaints of nausea. The amount of such effects found was important, but their gravity did not cause major concern.

dataset related to the study (10.12688/f1000research.149214.1)

This was a 2×2 randomized crossover control trial to compare the cardiovascular endurance of healthy volunteers using a 2-minute marching test (2MMT) and a 6-minute walk test (6MWT). This study included 254 participants of both sexes, aged 20–50 years, with a height and body mass index (BMI) of ≥150 cm and ≤25 kg/m2, respectively. Participants could perform activities independently and had normal annual chest radiographs and electrocardiograms. A group-randomized design was used to assign participants to Sequence 1 (AB) or 2 (BA). The tests were conducted over 2 consecutive days, with a 1-day washout period. On day 1, the participants randomly underwent either a 6MWT or 2MMT in a single-anonymized setup, and on day 2, the tests were performed in reverse order. We analyzed maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) as the primary outcome and heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), blood pressure (BP), oxygen saturation, dyspnea, and leg fatigue as secondary outcomes. Data were collected from 127 participants, categorized into two groups for different testing sequences. The first (AB) and second groups had 63 and 64 participants, respectively. The estimated VO2max was equivalent between both groups. The 2MMT and 6MWT estimated VO2max with a mean of 41.00 ± 3.95 mL/kg/min and 40.65 ± 3.98 mL/kg/min, respectively. The mean difference was -0.35 mL/kg/min (95% confidence interval: -1.09 to 0.38; p <0.001), and no treatment and carryover effects were observed. No significant changes were observed in HR, RR, and systolic BP (p = 0.295, p = 0.361 and p = 0.389, respectively). However, significant changes were found in the ratings of perceived exertion (p <0.001) and leg fatigue scale (p <0.001). The 2MMT is practical, simple, and equivalent to the 6MWT in estimating VO2max. Methods Sample size The sample size required for the equivalence study was estimated using nQuery software and calculated using two one-sided equivalence tests for crossover design. To calculate the sample size, we set the alpha error probability, statistical power, the lower equivalence limit, and upper equivalence limit at 5%, 90%, -2.00, and +2.00, respectively, using the clinical margin (minimal clinically important difference [MCID] of VO2max from a previous study, which was 2 ml/kg/min [15], and standard deviation was 8.6 [16]. Based on these values, we needed 101 participants for the crossover design, allowing for a 20% dropout rate. Therefore, we decided to randomize 127 patients per arm, resulting in 254 participants. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, data collection was incomplete, and we could only analyze 127 data sets in this study. Inclusion and exclusion criteria The inclusion criteria were male and female healthy volunteers, aged 20–50 years, with height: ≥150 cm and, BMI ≤25 kg/m2. Participants could perform activities independently and had normal annual chest radiographs and electrocardiograms. The exclusion criteria were significantly unstable vital signs, a history of COVID-19, and underlying heart disease or neuromuscular/skeletal impairment. Procedure and measurement We conducted a 2MMT and compared the results with those of the standard test, the 6MWT, to test the equivalence of both tests in estimating VO2max Condition A: According to the standard protocol, the 6MWT was performed indoors on a flat surface in a 30-m straight corridor, with 180º turns every 30 m. [10]. The walk test was performed with stable vital signs, and SpO2 was maintained at >95%, all monitored by a cardiopulmonary physical therapist. Condition B: The 2MMT was developed to determine the number of steps performed within 2 min. After the “start” command, the participants began marching in place and lifting their knees to an appropriate height of 30 cm. The participants were instructed to perform as many steps as possible (reaching a height of 30 cm) within 2 min. The participants were allowed to perform a few training steps to adjust to the marching technique and verify their ability to complete the task. The participants marched at their own pace; they could slow down or even stop, if necessary, and continue marching until the end of the 2-minute test period. The investigator determined the number of steps performed, informed the participants about the time left until the end of the trial, and motivated them to achieve the best possible result. The test results were expressed as the number of performed steps during which the right foot touched the ground. When the participants exhibited severe symptoms of exercise intolerance in both tests, such as severe dyspnea, fatigue, or other alarming symptoms, they were allowed to slow down or stop and rest. However, they were encouraged to resume the test as soon as possible. Adverse events were monitored during and after test completion. Both tests were terminated and interpreted as incomplete if any of the following symptoms were present: chest pain, intolerable dyspnea, leg cramps, staggering, diaphoresis, and ashen appearance. Data regarding the sex, age, BMI, HR, and RR were collected, and SpO2 was assessed using the NONIN Onyx2 9590 Oximeter, SBP and DBP were measured using the Philip Patient Monitor Efficia CM100, RPE, and LFS were assessed using the Borg’s scale. All parameters were recorded at 1 min, 5 min, and 10 min for pretest and posttest. VO2max estimated the cardiovascular endurance using the following formula: VO2max estimated in the 6MWT: 70.161 + (0.023 × 6MWT [m]) - (0.276 × weight [kg]) - (6.79 × sex, where m = 0, f = 1) - (0.193 × resting HR [beats per minute] - (0.191 × age [years]) [15]. where resting HR is the 10-min resting HR of posttest. VO2max estimated in the 2MMT: 13.341 + 0.138 × total up and down steps (UDS) – (0.183 × BMI) [16]. Data analysis Due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Thailand and hospital policies, only 127 of the 254 participants, who were healthy volunteers, could complete data collection. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate demographic characteristics. Continuous variables were reported as mean ± standard deviation, whereas binary variables were reported as percentages. The primary outcome (VO2max), evaluated using Statgraphics software, was analyzed through a two-one-sided t-test procedure. The analysis was conducted with an equivalence bound of ± 2 mL/kg/min from the margin of VO2max observed in a previous study [17]. The carryover and treatment effects were insignificant, and the equivalence result was significant for the test. For the secondary outcome, all parameters were analyzed using a linear mixed-effect model to compare 2MMT and 6MWT with STATA software. References

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(1) To evaluate the effectiveness of personalised psychologically-informed physiotherapy in people with neck pain; (2) To explore the mediating role of changes in illness perceptions. In this replicated single-case study, 14 patients with non-specific neck pain at risk for chronicity received a personalised intervention addressing unhelpful illness perceptions and dysfunctional movement behaviour, according to principles of cognitive functional therapy. Outcomes included the mediating role of illness perceptions on overall effect, function, pain intensity and self-efficacy. Linear mixed models were used to analyse the data. Repeated measurements (14-20 per patient), including a 3-months follow-up, showed a gradual improvement during and/or after psychologically-informed physiotherapy for overall effect, function, pain and to a lesser extent self-efficacy. Changes in each of the illness perception dimensions showed a mediation effect on overall effect, function and pain. When combining the dimensions “consequences,” “personal control,” “identity,” “concern” and “emotional response,” changes in illness perceptions explained approximately 35% of the improvement in overall effect. Addressing unhelpful illness perceptions appears valuable in the management of patients with chronic or recurrent non-specific neck pain. Intervention effects extended beyond the treatment period, indicating that patients’ improved understanding of their health condition continued to have a positive impact. Personalised interventions addressing unhelpful illness perceptions and dysfunctional movement behaviour are a promising approach to improving care for people with chronic or recurrent non-specific neck painOffering helpful illness perceptions is an important part of physiotherapeutic care for people with neck painIllness perception dimensions relating to personal control, identity, concern, consequences and emotional response are particularly amenable to change Personalised interventions addressing unhelpful illness perceptions and dysfunctional movement behaviour are a promising approach to improving care for people with chronic or recurrent non-specific neck pain Offering helpful illness perceptions is an important part of physiotherapeutic care for people with neck pain Illness perception dimensions relating to personal control, identity, concern, consequences and emotional response are particularly amenable to change