Annually 8 September marks International Physiotherapy Day, which commemorates the unity and solidarity of the global physiotherapy community.
The focus this year is on managing lower back pain, a very common occurrence for many, whether it is from sitting too long, lifting incorrectly, or just the stresses of daily life.
Physiotherapy is highly beneficial in treating lower back pain (LBP) and crucial to improving the patient’s mobility and reducing the pain.
According to the World Health Organisation, LBP affected 619 million people globally in 2020 and it is estimated that the number of cases will increase to 843 million by 2050, driven largely by population expansion and ageing.
Back pain can be experienced at any age, and most people experience LBP at least once in their life.
Prevalence increases with age up to 80 years, while the highest number of LBP cases occurs at the age of 50 to 55. LBP is more prevalent in women. Visit your local health clinic if you have persistent LBP so that you can get the help you need.
In the health setting
Physiotherapists treat a plethora of conditions and add quality to people’s lives.
Mia du Plessis and Caila Bergsma of Helderberg Hospital reckon that movement is medicine and exercise is good for your brain and keeps your body healthy. “Make sure that you exercise daily,” they suggest.
A stroke affects the quality of a person’s life including their loved ones.
Physiotherapists provide rehabilitation care and the improvement of bodily functions after a stroke to a level where people can function in their home environment.
“We also support the rehabilitation process following surgery,” said physiotherapist Mongezi Mlenzana.
“Treatment options include massage to reduce discomfort, support the healing process and release muscle tension around the stump or the affected limb.
The role of physios
Physiotherapists use their skills to treat the underlying causes of pain and limitations in movement and function. They also use many treatment approaches to help individuals regain their mobility and maximise their potential.
These health practitioners promote healthy lifestyles and exercise, and treat each patient/client as an individual, thoroughly assessing them to identify their needs.
They are also trained to treat sports injuries, promote safe and healthy activities, and work with children with coordination, balance and other movement problems to improve and maximise their independence.
What to expect
During your appointment with a physiotherapist, you can expect a discussion about your health problem and physical testing to help diagnose what may be wrong.
You will also receive a specialised treatment plan that suits your needs and your goals. Treatment may involve mobilising the joint, walking with assistive devices, breathing exercises, advice and exercises to continue by yourself at home.
