World Physiotherapy Day – which took place on Friday, 8 September – is marked annually around the world to highlight the importance of Movement for Health and the role which physiotherapists play in promoting physical activity and exercise across the life span.
Physical inactivity is the 4th leading risk factor for global mortality, responsible for 6% of deaths worldwide. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of some of the world’s major diseases including cardiovascular disease (by 26-28%), colon cancer (by 30-40%), breast cancer (by 20-30%) and type II diabetes (by 20-30%). People are becoming more physically inactive, with many adults spending more than 70% or more of their waking hours sitting down.
The key theme of this year’s World Physiotherapy Day was ‘Physical Activity for Life’, highlighting the important role that physical therapists play in healthy ageing. Physical activity helps people lead a happy and healthy life by increasing physical and mental health. The message builds on the World Health Organisation’s recommendations for moderate and vigorous activity, and a range of research and reports show the benefits of physical activity in maintaining health in people of all ages.
RCSI School of Physiotherapy staff were in the Expo area of No. 26 York St to give information on exercise and physical activity to RCSI staff and students, and to answer any questions. A key message was the role that health professionals, including RCSI’s future doctors, physiotherapists and pharmacists, play in educating people on the importance of exercise in both prevention and management of chronic health conditions.
There was also an opportunity to test their balance, using the Y-Balance Test. Good balance is important for preventing several sports-related injuries as well as reducing risk of falls in people with balance-related problems such as older people or those with neurological conditions.