What is the definition of "evidence-based practice" in physical therapy?

Evidence-based practice in physical therapy is defined as the integration of clinical expertise, patient values, and the best available research in decision-making. This approach emphasizes that practitioners should not only rely on their own knowledge and skills but also take into account the most current and high-quality evidence available in the literature when making treatment decisions. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of understanding and considering patients' individual preferences, priorities, and values to ensure that care is tailored to their specific needs.

This model promotes a holistic approach to patient care, where clinical judgment and research findings work together rather than in isolation. It facilitates improved patient outcomes by ensuring that treatment strategies are not only grounded in scientifically validated methods but are also customized to align with what matters most to the patient. This comprehensive approach contrasts distinctly with other options that suggest reliance on unproven techniques, historical methods, or solely on patient feedback, which do not encompass the breadth of what evidence-based practice entails.