World Physiotherapy Day

World Physiotherapy Day also known as World PT Day is observed on the 8th of September every year. The day is an opportunity for physiotherapists from all over the world to raise awareness about the crucial role their profession plays in making and keeping people well, mobile and independent. The day marks the unity and solidarity of the global physiotherapy community.

Every year a new theme is chosen to focus the profession’s attention and this year 2022 theme will focus on Osteoarthritis and the role of Physiotherapists. Many people do not recognize the contribution physiotherapists make in keeping people
healthy and independent. The main objective of this day is to acknowledge the work that physiotherapists do for the public and patients.

History

The World Confederation of Physical Therapy (WCPT) now known as World Physiotherapy in 1996 designated 8th September as World PT Day. World Confederation for Physical Therapy is a profession’s global body representing over 300,000 physical therapists/physiotherapists in 101 countries. This is the date of the establishment of World Physiotherapy in 1951. Hence, the 8th of September every year is a day that has been set aside to recognize this profession and its contribution to people globally.

World Physiotherapy has been collaborating with World Health Organisation (WHO) in promoting and campaigning for improved global health. Every year it is celebrated as a day to raise awareness about the contribution of physiotherapy and its crucial role in maintaining health and wellness. It is an opportunity to recognize the work that physiotherapists do for their patients and community.

How to observe

The day aims to honor the work that physiotherapists do for their patients as well as to raise awareness of their crucial contribution to society and to the improvement of global health enabling people to be mobile, well, and independent. To celebrate this day, you can follow World PT Day activities in your country.

The events of World Physical Therapy Day have a positive impact on the profession‘s image and public and politicians, as numerous studies from around the world have shown. Several World Confederation of Physical Therapy (WCPT) member groups have their days, weeks, and months of physical therapy. World Physical Therapy Day encourages people to make lifestyle changes that will help them to avoid future injury and promotes overall health and wellness.

Importance of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy or Physical therapy helps individuals overcome their physical injuries or illness and start flexing their bodies the way they want. With physiotherapy, we can restore body movements to pre-injury level and adds to our overall well-being. With the help of manual therapy, we can add strength to post-surgery joints and muscles. It also adds speed to your recovery. After a stroke, physiotherapy helps gain balance and movement. This form of therapy is widely used in sports as players are at constant risk of pulling their muscles. Physiotherapists are very bright people who chose to join this profession because they genuinely want to help people.

Physical therapists (also known as physiotherapists) are experts in developing and maintaining people’s ability to move and function throughout their lives. With an advanced understanding of how the body moves and what keeps it from moving well, they promote wellness, mobility, and independence.

They treat and prevent many problems caused by pain, illness, disability and disease, sport and work-related injuries, aging, and long periods of inactivity.

When the World Health Organization points out that physical inactivity is one of the leading risk factors for global mortality, causing 3.2 deaths annually, and that physical activity can reduce non-communicable diseases, it is clear that the profession has a major part to play.

Suggested Read: Exercise Vs Diet

What happens to our brains when we exercise?

Working out leads to changes in your brain, such as increased blood flow and the creation of new neural pathways. Also released in response to increased physical activity are hormones such as:

Endorphins – your body’s natural painkillers, they reduce discomfort, enhance pleasure and improve self-esteem.

Serotonin – controls your appetite, helps you sleep sounder, and regulates your mood.

Dopamine – is that pleasurable habit-forming hormone that keeps you coming back for more.

Testosterone – is crucial for both men and women, and is important for your metabolism, muscle growth, and libido. Low levels can lead to depression and obesity

Thank you to Physiotherapists everywhere!

Suggested Read: 15 Benefits Of Exercise