Strategies used by physical therapists in the U.S. for treatment and prevention of the female athlete triad

Abstract 

Objective

To describe current methods of treatment and prevention used by physical therapists in the United States (US) for the female athlete triad.

Design

Descriptive analysis.

Setting

Physical therapists currently practicing in the U.S.

Participants

500 American Physical Therapy Association members.

Main outcome measures

A survey was used to assess methods of practice for detecting, treating, and preventing the female athlete triad. Descriptive statistics summarized demographics about the survey participants. Likert scales and narrative descriptors determined the likelihood and frequency of employing certain treatment and prevention methods.

Results

Participants included 205 physical therapists for a 41% (205/500) response rate. Twenty-six percent (54/205) of the respondents used specific treatment methods, including education, for the female athlete triad; 48% of these respondents (26/54) incorporated preventative strategies other than screening; 13/54 (24%) assisted in athletic screening for the triad disorders. Physical therapists are more likely to talk to the athlete, the athlete's parents, and physicians when triad symptoms are suspected. The frequencies in which specific treatment and prevention strategies are utilized have been described.

Conclusions

Physical therapists must be responsible for recognizing, treating and preventing the female athlete triad. This study emphasizes that there is a greater need for knowledge regarding the triad to be incorporated into physical therapy curriculums, continuing education programs and professional practice.

Keywords: Female athlete, Energy deficits, Amenorrhea, Low bone mineral density