Physiotherapists call for recognition
Physiotherapy, also referred to as physical therapy, involves evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a range of diseases, disorders, and disabilities using physical means. Practised by physiotherapists or physical therapists, it is considered within the realm of conventional medicine.
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Methods of diagnosis can vary depending on the situation, though physical examinations and testing are often employed for evaluation. Treatments can include a wide range of practices such as massage, applications of heat or electricity, and using mobility devices such as walkers and crutches.
Once testing is complete, physiotherapists look at the results to determine the problems facing their patients. This can range from fairly minor issues, such as pulled or damaged muscles, to severe injuries or nerve damage that causes pain, and lack of mobility. Other specialists may be consulted in physiotherapy to determine the best, comprehensive course of action for a patient, though this depends on the situation.
Common forms of treatment
Common forms of treatment can include massage and the use of heat or cold to relax and help heal muscles. Mild electric shocks can also be used to stimulate muscles, which can help in recovery for some individuals. Recovery from accidents or surgery can require very restrained forms of treatment to ensure further damage is not caused; physiotherapy often relies on patience while waiting for muscles and bones to recover.
The United Nations (UN) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) recognise the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, smoke-related diseases and cancer, which are recognised as priorities for action.
Role by physiotherapists
Despite the key role played by physiotherapists in healthcare delivery, and at a time when the need for quality physiotherapy services are greater than ever, those who operate in the profession say they are still struggling for recognition in the country.
Speaking at the opening of the Second Biennial Scientific Conference of the Ghana Physiotherapists Association (GPA) in Kumasi, the Chairman of the Organising Committee of the association, Mr Benjamin Opoku Bediako, said physiotherapists worked with millions of people every year to prevent and overcome a myriad of health conditions and risk factors in order to keep populations healthy and reduce health costs.
The theme for the conference was “Evidence-based Physiotherapy Practice: A Cornerstone in Quality Health Care Delivery in Ghana”.
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He said they must be recognised as experts and specialists in physical activity, promoting health, fitness and wellness and given the due recognition as such by health ministers and public health agencies, which should contact them for professional advice on physical therapy in the face of increasing cases of NCDs.
They must also be supported to perform their roles effectively to help patients come out of conditions that prevent them from being as active and independent as they should be.
The President of the GPA, Mr Jonathan N. A. Quartey, said the conference offered a unique opportunity for clinicians and academicians in physiotherapy from all over the country to discuss training issues, treatment outcomes and challenges they encountered.