By: Geraldus Sigap
Every year on September 8, the world observes World Physical Therapy Day, an important moment to raise awareness about the vital role of physiotherapy in maintaining health, accelerating recovery, and preventing various musculoskeletal disorders. Physiotherapy is not just for injury recovery, it’s a key to improving overall quality of life.
What is Physiotherapy and Why is It Important?
Physiotherapy is a form of healthcare that focuses on treating movement and functional disorders, whether caused by injury, illness, or aging. Through manual therapy techniques, physical exercises, and posture education, physiotherapists help patients reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent recurrence.
Some key benefits of physiotherapy include:
- Relieving muscle, joint, and nerve pain
- Increasing muscle strength and flexibility
- Aiding recovery after stroke or surgery
- Preventing recurrent injuries, especially in athletes or manual laborers
- Improving posture and overall movement quality
Who Needs Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy isn’t just for post-operative or injury recovery patients. People with the following conditions can also benefit greatly:
- Chronic back or neck pain
- Arthritis or osteoarthritis
- Herniated disc (HNP)
- Chronic respiratory conditions like COPD
- Post-COVID-19 recovery (respiratory rehabilitation)
- Stroke or bone fracture rehabilitation
The Role of Physiotherapists in Long-Term Health
Physiotherapists don’t just work in hospitals, they also practice in clinics, sports centers, and homecare services. They create personalized therapy programs tailored to each patient’s condition and recovery goals. Using an evidence-based approach and regular evaluations, physiotherapists also provide education on ergonomics, proper stretching techniques, and safe physical activities to prevent future injuries.
When Should You See a Physiotherapist?
You should consult a physiotherapist if you experience:
- Persistent muscle pain or stiffness that doesn’t improve within days
- Difficulty moving or performing daily activities
- History of injury or recent surgery
- Issues with balance or coordination
Early consultation with a physiotherapist can be crucial in preventing the condition from worsening.
At RS Abdi Waluyo, we understand that recovery isn’t just about medical treatment, it’s about restoring quality of life. Our physiotherapy services are handled by experienced professionals and supported by modern technology. From musculoskeletal and neurological therapy to post-operative cardiac or orthopedic rehabilitation, we provide it all. Schedule a consultation with our Physiotherapy Team at RS Abdi Waluyo for tailored, effective care. Call us at 021-3144989 or book an appointment online today.
FAQ
- Is physiotherapy only for post-surgery or injury patients?
No. Physiotherapy is also beneficial for people with chronic pain, poor posture, herniated discs (HNP), balance disorders, or post-stroke rehabilitation. Even healthy individuals can benefit from physiotherapy to prevent injury and improve mobility.
- How many physiotherapy sessions do I need?
It depends on your condition and how your body responds to treatment. Some patients may only need 2–3 sessions, while others may require weekly or monthly programs customized by a physiotherapist.
- Can physiotherapy be done at home?
Yes. At RS Abdi Waluyo, homecare physiotherapy services are available, especially for patients with limited mobility or those recovering from major surgery. However, for certain conditions, in-clinic therapy with equipment and supervision is recommended.
- Is physiotherapy safe for the elderly?
Absolutely. In fact, it’s highly recommended. Physiotherapy can help seniors reduce fall risk, improve flexibility, maintain muscle strength, and enhance overall quality of life.
Referensi:
- InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. In brief: Physical therapy. [Updated 2024 Mar 19]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK561514/
- Bielecki JE, Tadi P. Therapeutic Exercise. [Updated 2023 Jul 3]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK555914/
