Exploring the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Antioxidant Supplementation for Muscle Recovery among Physiotherapy Students

Abstract

Background: Antioxidant supplementation is widely recognized for its potential to reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress and enhance muscle recovery. However, there is limited research on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antioxidant supplementation among healthcare students, particularly physiotherapy students. Objective: This study aims to assess the awareness, knowledge, and practices regarding antioxidant supplementation for muscle recovery among physiotherapy students at the Institute of Physical Rehabilitation Sciences (IPRS), Peoples University of Medical and Health Sciences for Women (PUMHSW). Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 300 physiotherapy students enrolled at IPRS, PUMHSW. Inclusion criteria required participants to be aged 18-28 years old and enrolled in the physiotherapy program. Exclusion criteria included students from other disciplines, non-consenting participants, and those with incomplete responses. A structured questionnaire was used to collect demographic information, awareness, knowledge, usage, and perceptions of antioxidant supplementation. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board, and informed consent was obtained from all participants, ensuring confidentiality. Results: A total of 300 students participated. The study found that 66.1% of participants were aware of antioxidants' role in reducing muscle soreness, but only 32% had used supplements. Despite moderate awareness, 58.7% felt their curriculum inadequately covered antioxidant supplementation. Approximately 70.4% expressed interest in receiving more formal education on antioxidants. The study highlighted significant gaps in knowledge and practice, emphasizing the need for enhanced education on antioxidant supplementation. Conclusion: The study revealed moderate awareness but limited knowledge and use of antioxidant supplementation, suggesting the necessity for integrating evidence-based education into the physiotherapy curriculum to improve rehabilitation practices. Keywords: Antioxidant supplementation, Muscle recovery, Knowledge and awareness, Rehabilitation practices, Healthcare Education