The measurement problem in physical therapy: Part 1

A measurement problem exists in the world of physical therapy. In some ways it is subtle, almost unrecognizable, yet pervasive. In others ways, it is clearly structural and perpetuated by systems that diminish or misunderstand its value. Both are harmful to our profession, and to patients. Join me in this 2-part podcast series as I explore what the problem is, how we got here, and what we should do about it.

REFERENCES

Kristal A, Gaunaurd IA, Morgan SJ, et al. Use of standardized outcome measures among physical therapists in the United States: A cross-sectional survey study. PLoS One. 2025;20(8):e0330528. Published 2025 Aug 20. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0330528 

McCambridge AB, Nasser AM, Mehta P, Stubbs PW, Verhagen AP. Has Reporting on Physical Therapy Interventions Improved in 2 Decades? An Analysis of 140 Trials Reporting on 225 Interventions. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2021;51(10):503-509. doi:10.2519/jospt.2021.10642

Pires D, Cruz EB, Gomes LA, Nunes C. How Do Physical Therapists Measure Treatment Outcomes in Adults With Chronic Low Back Pain? A Systematic Review. Phys Ther. 2020;100(6):1020-1034. doi:10.1093/ptj/pzaa030 [This study reports spinal mobility is assessed in only 31.8% of studies, and muscle strength and endurance in only 26.7%. Furthermore, measurement targets and tools are not standardized. These findings and more reflect my own observations.]