Norwegian Psychomotor Physiotherapy: A scoping review

Abstract

Background: Norwegian Psychomotor Physiotherapy (NPMP) is an established treatment approach mainly applied to patients with long-lasting musculoskeletal pain. The research in the field of NPMP is gradually expanding. The aim of this study was therefore to conduct a systematic search of the published literature for empirical studies in the field, to chart the characteristics and methodologies used and uncover gaps in the research field.

Methods: A scoping review methodology was chosen.

Results: A total of 93 full text research articles were analysed. The analysis identified primarily articles with a quantitative approach concerning development and standardisation of the NPMP body examination into scales. The qualitative studies concerned different experiences from the body examination and the treatment approach from the patients’ and/or the physiotherapists’ perspectives.

Conclusion: The literature in the field is limited but has slowly expanded during the last 20 years. More research is generally needed to further develop and expand the treatment approach.