IJOMAHIP Published Article Details

Abstract Introduction: Research on lower limb pain and its risk factors among physical therapists is limited. Physical Therapy interns may be particularly vulnerable due to clinical training demands. This study aimed to determine whether internship workload contributes to lower limb pain among Physical Therapy Interns at Silliman University during Academic Year 2022–2023. Methods: A descriptive–correlational design was employed to examine the association between internship workload and lower limb pain. Participants included Level-IV Physical Therapy Interns. Data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire delivered through Google Forms. The instrument underwent content validation using Lawshe’s method and reliability testing via Cronbach’s alpha. Statistical analyses were performed to explore relationships between workload components (patient load, physical demands, types of interventions) and reported lower limb pain. Results: Analysis revealed a significant relationship between the level of lower limb pain and workload in local affiliation centers (p < 0.05). No significant association was found between lower limb pain and either physical demands or types of interventions performed. Discussion: Findings indicate that increased patient load is associated with a higher risk of developing lower limb pain among interns, while the nature of interventions or physical intensity appears less influential. These results highlight the need for internship programs to consider patient assignment and workload management to prevent musculoskeletal strain. The study provides a baseline for future research and may guide educational institutions and clinical supervisors in implementing preventive strategies to reduce lower limb pain during clinical training.