ABSTRACT
STUDY DESIGN: This is a cross-sectional survey research. INTRODUCTION: Current evidence provides efficacy of graded motor imagery (GMI) in chronic pain conditions but also reveals barriers to its implementation. PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: The purpose of this study was to describe current utilization of GMI in hand therapy practice. METHODS: Survey tool, informed by literature and Revised Neurophysiology of Pain Questionnaire (NPQ) was electronically distributed to members of the American Society of Hand Therapists. RESULTS: 132 therapists completed the survey. 65.2% reported they would always or very likely use GMI in clients with central sensitization, but no relationship between the likelihood of therapists using GMI to score achieved on the NPQ was found. Lack of patient buy-in, was the main barrier cited. "Sell it well" with pain neuroscience education the most cited strategy. DISCUSSION: GMI is frequently used in clients with central sensitization but requires client buy-in. CONCLUSIONS: Understanding and explaining pain mechanism is essential for implementing GMI.