The primary purpose of research in physical therapy is to generate evidence that can be used to inform clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes.

Evidence-based practice involves the integration of research findings, clinical expertise, and patient preferences to make informed decisions about patient care.

A systematic review involves the systematic identification, evaluation, and synthesis of research studies to provide a comprehensive overview of the available evidence on a specific topic.

Experimental studies involve the manipulation of variables to determine cause-and-effect relationships.

RCTs are designed to rigorously evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention by randomly assigning participants to either the intervention group or a control group.

A literature review involves the systematic identification, evaluation, and synthesis of research studies to provide a comprehensive overview of the available evidence on a specific topic.

Case studies involve the in-depth investigation of a single individual, group, or event to gain a deeper understanding of a particular phenomenon.

Data collection involves the systematic gathering of information from participants in a research study.

Quantitative data consists of numerical measurements that can be analyzed using statistical methods.

Data analysis involves the systematic examination and interpretation of research data to identify patterns, trends, and relationships.

Qualitative data consists of non-numerical information, such as words, images, or symbols, that is typically collected through methods such as interviews, focus groups, and observations.

A hypothesis is a statement that predicts the outcome of a research study and is tested through the collection and analysis of data.

Research bias can arise from various sources, including selection bias, confounding bias, and attrition bias.

Critical appraisal involves the systematic evaluation of a research study to assess its quality, validity, and relevance to a specific clinical question.

Cohort studies involve following participants over time to examine the relationship between exposure to a factor and the development of an outcome.