To map the profile of fracture studies indexed on the PEDro platform, focusing on study designs, body segments studied, publication decades, and geographical distribution.
Two authors independently extracted data from the PEDro platform using the term "fracture" with the musculoskeletal and orthopedic subdiscipline filters. Studies without available abstracts or full articles, and those not primarily focused on fractures, were excluded. Studies were categorized by body segments: spine, shoulder, humerus shaft, elbow, radius and ulna shaft, wrist and hand, hip, pelvis, femur shaft, knee, tibia shaft, ankle and foot, elderly/fragility, and general fractures.
Of 699 identified articles, 617 met the inclusion criteria, representing 3.14% of all musculoskeletal and orthopedic studies. We identified 11 clinical practice guidelines, 127 systematic reviews, and 478 clinical trials (CTs).Studies predominantly focused on the hip (35%) and wrist (23%), while humerus shaft, elbow, radius and ulna shaft, pelvis, and femur shaft collectively accounted for only 5.2% of the studies. Clinical trials were concentrated in Europe (48.4%), Asia (19.8%), North America (19.4%), and Oceania (10.6%), with minimal representation from South America (1%), Central America (0.8%), and none from Africa. The average PEDro scale score was 5,4 ± 1,8, with a peak in study production during the 2010s.
Fracture studies on the PEDro platform are limited in quantity and methodological quality. Most segments lack clinical guidelines, systematic reviews, or trials. The geographic distribution reflects disparities in scientific production, favoring developed regions.
These findings highlight significant challenges for physiotherapists practicing EBP in fracture care. This call to action highlights the need for further research, guidelines, and support, especially in underrepresented segments, to enhance patient outcomes and care quality.
Evidence-based practice
physiotherapy
