Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy in Neurorehabilitation: A Survey of Current Knowledge and Perception Among Physical Therapists

Abstract

Background: Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) is a neurorehabilitative approach grounded in principles of neuroplasticity and behavioral retraining to counteract learned nonuse in patients with motor impairment. Objective: To evaluate the knowledge and perception of CIMT among physical therapists in Karachi and explore the association between demographic variables and implementation barriers, with the aim of identifying gaps influencing clinical adoption. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in academic and clinical settings across Karachi over six months. A total of 386 physical therapists holding a DPT or t-DPT degree were recruited via convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire comprising demographic items, 12 knowledge-based dichotomous questions, and 13 perception-based Likert items. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 30 with chi-square tests to assess associations; ethical approval was obtained from the Indus University IRB in accordance with the Helsinki Declaration. Results: While 92.8% of participants demonstrated good-to-excellent knowledge, only 9.07% exhibited moderate perception; knowledge and perception were positively correlated (p=0.001). No demographic variable significantly influenced overall knowledge or perception (p>0.05). Conclusion: Despite high awareness of CIMT, physical therapists reported low perception and readiness for clinical application, highlighting the need for targeted training and institutional support to enhance implementation and improve neurorehabilitation outcomes.