World Physiotherapy Day is observed on September 8 every year. It is celebrated in order to promote awareness about the importance of physiotherapies and chronic pain treatments in keeping people healthy and active.

The day celebrates the global physiotherapy community’s unity and solidarity. Physical therapists help patients recover from injuries and deformities, educate them on good lifestyle choices, and help them regain lost or impaired agility.

The World Physiotherapy Day theme changes each year, and this year’s theme is “Prevention and Management of Osteoarthritis”. The next year’s theme will focus on other rheumatological conditions including low back pain, cervical and thoracic pain, shoulder pain, headaches, cancer, fibromyalgia, and muscular dystrophy.

The community intends to assist member organisations in their efforts to promote the profession and increase their competence by using World Physical Therapy Day as a platform.

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Why is it celebrated?

According to reports from around the world, World Physiotherapy Day activities have a beneficial impact on the industry’s profile and grab the attention of the public and policymakers.

Many member organisations of World Physiotherapy already have their own national physical therapy days, weeks, and months. However, organisations that do not have their own dedicated day frequently use September 8th to mark the importance of physiotherapy.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common joint ailment, affecting 520 million individuals worldwide, with knee Osteoarthritis accounting for 60% of all arthritis cases. Hip and knee Osteoarthritis was classified as the 11th leading cause of disability in a global review of 291 disorders.

The precise cause of Osteoarthritis is unknown. Risk factors include obesity, having a history of joint injury or surgery, or a history of joint overuse, and heredity.

Exercise is a first-line treatment for osteoarthritis. A physiotherapist can offer advice and education on pain relief and Osteoarthritis management. They can teach patients how to enhance joint movement and muscle strength. 

As joint pains become more common with age, many people seek physiotherapy to assist them to do daily tasks. Regular physical therapy ensures that the body’s mobility and agility are not hindered and ensures full functionality.