(This is the second in a series of articles the Chronicle will be publishing in observance of Rehab Week 2013.  Rehab Week 2013 is being observed under the theme: ‘Rehabilitation moving forward: New Ventures, New Technologies’)

WHAT IS PHYSIOTHERAPY?
Physiotherapy/ Physical Therapy is concerned with identifying and maximizing movement potential within the spheres of health promotion, prevention, treatment and rehabilitation. It is a health service that especially assists people in preventing or limiting their physical impairments and/or disabilities which may occur as a result of injury, disease or following surgery. The aim is to regain function.
COMMON CONDITIONS ADDRESSED BY PHYSIOTHERAPISTS: Orthopaedic –Fractures, joint and soft tissue injuries (arthritis, sprains and strains)
Neurological – Stroke, Guillain Barre Syndrome, Spinal Cord injuries
Cardiopulmonary- Asthma, Pneumonia
Systemic – Rheumatoid arthritis, Diabetes, Lupus
Paediatric – Cerebral Palsy, Down’s Syndrome, Spina Bifida
Sports Related Injuries
Workplace injuries

WHERE CAN PHYSIOTHERAPY BE ACCESSED?
Physiotherapy falls under the umbrella of Rehabilitation and Disability Services, Ministry of Health and can be accessed in all ten administrative regions at the regional or district hospitals and some community health centres. In Guyana, such services are provided by Physiotherapists and Rehabilitation Assistants and are available to persons of all ages; from the newborn to the elderly.
Should you require further information feel free to contact the Rehabilitation Department nearest to you or call the Physiotherapy Department at GPHC; 225-3294.