Physical therapy as an adjunct treatment for people living with HIV/AIDS: a provider needs assessment--phase II.

With the increased chronicity of HIV disease, people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) may develop impairments during their lifetime that can be addressed with physical therapy (PT). This study surveyed PTs in Atlanta, Georgia, to determine their knowledge and beliefs regarding PT treatment of PLWHA. Results revealed that the majority of respondents encounter PLWHA in their practices, viewed PT as effective for treating HIV/AIDS-related impairments, and felt comfortable treating such impairments. While most PTs self-identified their knowledge of HIV/AIDS-related impairments as "competent," less than half correctly identified transmission routes. Most PTs indicated that they would like to have additional training in PT treatment for PLWHA. This further confirms the need for continuing education opportunities for PTs in the care of PLWHA.