World PT Day – 8th September 2024
In 1996, 8th September was designated as World PT Day. This is the date World Physiotherapy was founded in 1951.
The day marks the unity and solidarity of the global physiotherapy community. It is an opportunity to recognise the work that physiotherapists do for their patients and community. Using World PT Day as a focus, World Physiotherapy aims to support member organisations in their efforts to promote the profession and advance their expertise.
Many World Physiotherapy member organisations already have their own national physiotherapy days, weeks and months.
However, organisations that have no designated day of their own often choose 8th September. https://world.physio/wptday.
DID YOU KNOW?
What is Back Pain?
The understanding of back pain is rarely helped by detailed investigations such as x-rays and MRI scans. These are not always necessary and can sometimes give misleading information. Evidence shows that these methods can get in the way of a speedy recovery and may even exaggerate feelings of pain. What we can say with conviction is that some pain sensitive structures are being stimulated and your brain is interpreting these as pain. https://www.csp.org.uk/conditions/back-pain
• It is a passing problem that usually recovers.
• Keep moving. Those who stay active get better faster.
• Keep a positive attitude.
• It is usually pain coming from the normal working parts of your back that are not functioning as they should.
What to do if you get back pain?
• Where possible, stay active – Your back likes movement so try to keep participating in normal activities as this will help you to recover faster; however you may need to make temporary changes. Your Physiotherapist can give guidance with exercises and how to stay active.
• Control the pain – Use painkillers or anti-inflammatories. See assistance from your GP if needed. Always follow the advice on the packer. Controlling the pain means you will be able to move normally and thereby get better faster.
• Heat or Cold – You may get some relief from placing a cold pack/bag of frozen peas on the affected area (wrap in a damp tea towel and leave up to 15- 20 minutes. If you prefer heat, use a towel-wrapped hot water bottle. Either method helps to reduce pain and muscle tension.
• Massage & Relaxation – This can help to stimulate the skin which eases the pain and lessens tension. Relaxation techniques can help tackle fear and anxiety that is often produced in acute pain.
National Fitness Day – 18th September 2024
The National Fitness Day 2024 will take place on Wednesday 18th September, hot on the heels of the Olympics and Paralympics in Paris.
It’s the 13th year, the nation’s most active day of the year. Gyms, swimming pools, leisure centres, sports clubs, studios, schools, workplaces, and online providers across the UK will be opening their doors to encourage as many people as possible to try something new and reap the physical, social and mental benefits of physical activity.
Last year (2023), 10.2 million people in the UK were directly motivated to participate in some form of activity on National Fitness Day, whether for the first time or for the hundredth time. The campaign had a global media reach of 57.2 million, with 31.3 million engaging on social media. https://well-nation.co.uk/blog/2024/05/01/national-fitness-day-2024-to-take-place-on-18-september/#:~:text=The%20National%20Fitness%20Day%202024,branding%20for%20the%202024%20campaign
