Physiotherapy Is Least Preferred for Managing Musculoskeletal Pain—Findings From a Pain Prevalence Survey

Musculoskeletal (MSK) pain is a prevalent public health concern that significantly impacts individuals' quality of life. Globally, there were approximately 322.75 million MSK related cases that contributed to 150.08 million disability-adjusted life years, predominantly from low back and knee pain. This substantial burden underscores the need for an effective health system to alleviate the impact of MSK pain on individuals. Despite strong evidence supporting the role of physiotherapy in MSK pain management, it remains an underutilised treatment option for many people. This underutilisation may be partly attributed to the existing health system, where medical doctors in primary care often serve as the first point of contact for patients with MSK pain.