You must be familiar with the famous English proverb ‘Health is Wealth.’ The human body is remarkably easy to damage and break, and no more so than when participating in strenuous physical activity such as sporting or athletic activity. World Physical Therapy Day is observed on September 8 every year.
The day aims to increase awareness of the benefits of physical therapy and the vast opportunities the profession offers.
World Physical Therapy Day is unique when compared to other days that aim to commemorate mental and physical health. Unlike campaigns such as World Asthma Day, which aims to raise awareness about the realities of living with asthma, the primary purpose of World Physical Therapy Day is to acknowledge the hard-work physical therapists do, and the versatility of physical therapy in improving quality of life.
History of World Physical Therapy Day:
In 1996, the World Confederation of Physical Therapy (WCPT) was designated 8 September as World Physical Therapy Day. This date was founded by WCPT in 1951. As per the several reports from across the world, the activities of World Physical Therapy Day have a positive impact on the profile of the profession and standing with both the public and policymakers. Several WCPT member organisations already have their own national physical therapy days, weeks, and months.
World Physical Therapy Day 2020 Theme:
This year’s theme of World Physical Therapy Day or World PT Day will focus on rehabilitation and COVID-19. The purpose of the day is to focus on the delivery of physiotherapy through telehealth.
Benefits of Physical Therapy:
A healthcare provider or physical therapist can advise individuals about the benefits specific to their personal medical history and their need for treatment. Depending on the reason for treatment, the benefits of physical therapy include:
- Pain management with reduced need for opioids
- Avoiding surgery
- Improved mobility and movement
- Recovery from injury or trauma
- Recovery from stroke or paralysis
- Fall prevention
- Improved balance
- Management of age-related medical problems
