Burnout syndrome in physiotherapists: An exploratory cross-sectional study from Delhi–NCR

Abstract

Introduction: Burnout among physiotherapists has received limited attention in India, despite growing evidence of its
impact on professional well-being and patient care.This study assessed the burnout levels and their associations with
demographic and professional variables among physiotherapists practicing in the Delhi–NCR region.
Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 140 practicing physiotherapists using the Maslach Burnout
Inventory–Human Services Survey. Burnout levels across emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP), and
personal accomplishment (PA) subscales were categorized as low, moderate, or high. Associations with demographic and
professional variables were analyzed using chi-square tests.
Results: Most participants demonstrated low burnout across all three domains. Emotional exhaustion was predominantly
low (51%), while depersonalization (42% low; 37% high) and reduced personal accomplishment (38% low; 34% high)
showed greater variability. Gender was significantly associated with personal accomplishment, with females reporting
higher PA scores (χ² = 8.398, p = 0.015).
Conclusion: Physiotherapists in Delhi–NCR exhibited relatively low emotional exhaustion but notable levels of
depersonalization and reduced personal accomplishment, indicating emerging occupational strain. Compared with
global estimates, emotional exhaustion appeared lower, while depersonalization and reduced personal accomplishment
were higher. These findings highlight the need for early preventive measures and organizational strategies to promote
physiotherapist well-being.