By: Lebohang Maluke
MASERU
– Physiotherapists are the vital pulse of the healthcare system, dedicating their expertise on the 8 September each year, to improving people’s physical and emotional well-being. From athletic injuries to chronic pain, their holistic approach ensures patients can get back to doing what they love. On World Physiotherapy Day, it’s our turn to celebrate their endless commitment and remind them how valued they are in our lives.
The day was designated on 8 September in the year 1996. World Physiotherapy was established in 1951, marking its founding date. The day signifies the togetherness and support within the worldwide physiotherapy community. It is a chance to appreciate the efforts of physiotherapists in serving their patients and community.
With a focus on World PT Day, it supports member organizations in promoting the profession and enhancing their skills. Reports globally suggest that World PT Day events positively affect the profession’s recognition and reputation among the public and policymakers.
Several World PT member organizations already celebrate their own national physiotherapy days, weeks, and months. Nevertheless, companies without a specific day of celebration often opt for 8 September.
The day allows physiotherapists worldwide to highlight the important role their profession plays in maintaining people’s health, mobility, and independence.
In 1996, the World Confederation of Physical Therapy (WCPT), now World Physiotherapy, established 8th September as World PT Day.
The day symbolizes the togetherness and support within the international physiotherapy community. It is a chance to acknowledge the efforts of physiotherapists in helping their patients and community. World Physiotherapy’s goal is to assist member organizations in promoting the profession and improving their skills.
Reports from various regions worldwide suggest that Therapy Day events have a beneficial effect on the profession’s reputation and relationships with the public and policymakers.
It is a great chance to express gratitude, gain knowledge, and engage with the physical therapist community that helps individuals maintain movement and health in diverse ways!
The human body is easily susceptible to injury and fractures, especially during intense physical activities like sports or athletics. However, accidents, illnesses, neurological diseases, and other factors can also prompt the necessity for physical therapy. It is celebrated to express gratitude for those who play a key role in providing healing through exercise and movement therapy.
Physical therapists aim to reverse injuries, provide knowledge on wellness practices, and to recover impaired functionality. It is a day set aside to honor these healthcare professionals globally, acknowledging their dedication to keeping everyone in good physical condition.
World PT Day Report 2024 states that Lower Back Pain (LBP) is the primary reason for disability on a worldwide scale. In 2020, 619 million individuals, which equates to 1 out of every 13 people suffered. It can occur at any stage of life, with nearly everyone going through it at some point. Nevertheless, it only develops into a long-lasting condition for a small percentage.
90% of chronic low back pain is considered non-specific, indicating that there is no single identifiable source such as a joint, muscle, ligament, or disc, and it is not attributed to a serious or specific underlying medical condition. Out of all health conditions that could benefit from rehabilitation, LBP is the one that has the potential to benefit the most people.
Journѐe Mondiale 2023 article declares that Physiotherapists offer professional recommendations, direction, and care for lower back pain. They will assist in enhancing your overall health and well-being, while decreasing the likelihood of future occurrences.
Rehabilitation is necessary in all forms and phases of LBP to provide reassurance, understanding of pain, aid in recovery, facilitate a return to enjoyable activities, and promote independence in daily life.
Non-surgical treatments are suggested for individuals dealing with LBP. Physiotherapists specialize in managing lower back pain and provide personalized treatment options such as:
- Educational initiatives that promote both learning and self-management techniques
- Exercise programs that are supervised by a physiotherapist
Treatment methods in physiotherapy like hands-on therapy
Physical activity has been proven to be the most beneficial intervention for low back pain. No specific type of exercise is superior to others – the key is to stay active and do it consistently. Physiotherapist assists in discovering a suitable exercise.
Celebrating World Physical Therapy Day holds great importance for physical therapists. This day can be utilized to show the significance of a physical therapist’s role in promoting long-term physical health, comfort, and mobility for patients. In 2023, World Physical Therapy Day focused on arthritis, serving as an opportunity for both those affected and unaffected by the condition to educate themselves on treatment and prevention.
Concerning your clinic, commemorating World Physical Therapy Day can improve its general reputation as well. By participating in World Physical Therapy Day, you demonstrate to patients your dedication to providing quality physical therapy care through patient education, outreach, and recognition of your team’s specialized skills. Additionally, celebrating showcases your position as a knowledge broker, attracting the attention and respect of other PT professionals and practices.