PGI Chandigarh celebrates World Physiotherapy Day

09 September, 2012

On September 8, celebrated as the World Physiotherapy Day (WPD), the Post Graduate Institute (PGI) held a seminar, which coincided with the golden jubilee celebration of PGIMER and completion of 45 years of its physiotherapy department.

WPD EVENT at PGI was inaugurated by Vini Mahajan, health secretary, Punjab, which was marked by paper presentations, talks, posters presentations, quiz competition, etc. Along with participants from Panjab, Haryama, Chandigarh UT, former Indian hockey captain Rajpal Singh also participated in the seminar.

According to Professor M S Dhillon, Head of Orthopedics Department, the thrust area of the seminar was on lower back pain and its diagnosis, prevention and management. “About 90 per cent of the cases of lower back pain are related to improper posture and can be managed by taking preventive measures like exercises,” he said.

It was disclosed that the PGTP is planning to start ‘back schools’ for those afflicted with back pain, wherein people will meet once a week and share their problems, perceive the group support and discuss effects of group physiotherapy sessions.

Globally, WPD is observed on 8th September to raise awareness about the crucial role physiotherapy in making and keeping people well, mobile, productive and independent. WPD was established in 1996, by the World Confederation for Physical Therapy – the profession’s global body. Physiotherapists are experts in developing and maintaining people’s ability to move and function throughout their lives by promoting health, fitness, wellness and productivity.

Physiotherapists maximise people’s movement potential leading to improvement in health by specific exercises done safely under their guidance and instructions. They do this by examining the person, recommending exercises that are safe and appropriate for them.