Burnout and Professional Development: A Study of Lithuanian Physiotherapists

Abstract

Background. Physiotherapists’ qualifications involve treatment, responsibility, and communication, putting them at risk of burnout. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of burnout in Lithuanian physiotherapists and its impact on their professional development.

Methods. A total of 133 physiotherapists working both in the public and private sectors completed an anonymous survey between January and March 2024 through an online form linked to www.apklausa.lt. Burnout syndrome was measured using the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI). Socio-demographics and questions related to professional development were utilized.

Results. Total CBI score was 54.92 (moderate burnout). The overall prevalence of physiotherapists reporting moderate burnout was 50.4% (n=67). Thirteen (9.8%) physiotherapists reported high levels and none had severe burnout. Respondents engaged in relevant scientific literature reading (50.8%) and felt confident in solving patients’ problems (64.4%), focused on enhancing general skills (45.5%), and strongly agreed that physiotherapy seminars contribute to knowledge improvement (51.9%). There was a negative correlation (r = -0.26, p < 0.05), indicating a significant inverse relationship between burnout and professional development.

Conclusions. Lithuanian physiotherapists in our study group experience moderate level burnout syndrome. Despite this, they maintain a positive or neutral attitude towards professional development, actively engage in skill improvement activities, and effectively solve patients’ problems.

Keywords: burnout syndrome; Copenhagen Burnout Inventory; physiotherapist; professional development.