Every year on 8 September, the global physiotherapy community unites to celebrate World Physiotherapy Day—a recognition of the transformative power of physiotherapy in promoting mobility, independence, and quality of life.
For 2025, the theme focuses on “Healthy Ageing”, emphasizing the critical role of physiotherapy in preventing frailty and falls among older adults
Global Context: Why Healthy Ageing Matters
- In 2019, approximately 1 billion people were aged 60 and above—a figure expected to rise to 1.4 billion by 2030 and 2.1 billion by 2050. Those aged 80+ will triple, reaching 426 million.
- Aging brings higher risks of frailty, mobility decline, and fall-related injuries. Physiotherapists are uniquely positioned to mitigate these risks via tailored strength, balance, and flexibility programs
Spotlight on Bihar: A Growing Need Amidst a Shortage
- A recent Times of India article reports an acute shortage of physiotherapists in Bihar, even as demand surges—from post-surgical recovery to geriatric care and rehabilitation for accident victims
- Contributing factors include:
- Insufficient training institutions
- Lacking government recruitment
- Inadequate infrastructure in both urban and rural healthcare centers
- Insufficient training institutions
- This gap risks leaving many elderly and mobility-impaired individuals without essential physiotherapy services.
How World Physiotherapy Day Tools Can Inspire Local Action
- World Physiotherapy provides a campaign toolkit for World PT Day, featuring posters, social media graphics, activity guides, and more—ready for adaptation in local contexts
- In 2025, the materials underscore the importance of physiotherapy and physical activity in healthy ageing, focusing specifically on reducing frailty and preventing falls.
How is IIHER helping people mobilize with physiotherapy in Bihar?
Suggested Initiatives for Bihar-Based Campaigns:
Community Awareness Drives
IIHER conducts awareness programs in, healthcare centres and local clinics to educate people on the benefits of physiotherapy for recovery, mobility, and healthy ageing.
Training & Workshops
The institute organizes exercise sessions and physiotherapy workshops for seniors, teaching practical fall-prevention techniques and mobility-focused exercises.
Advocacy for Resources
IIHER works with government authorities and NGOs to promote the establishment of more physiotherapy training centres, particularly in rural Bihar.
Media & Public Outreach
Through local newspapers, social media campaigns (#WorldPhysiotherapyDay), and awareness initiatives, IIHER highlights the role of physiotherapy in improving quality of life.
Action Steps for Bihar’s Physiotherapy Movement
- Run awareness campaigns in villages, schools, and clinics using the toolkit.
- Host fall-prevention workshops for older adults, guided by physiotherapy professionals.
- Advocate for training centers and public investment in physiotherapy infrastructure.
- Integrate telehealth solutions, offering remote consultations where access is scarce.
- Utilize #WorldPTDay across social media platforms to amplify the message.
FAQ: World Physiotherapy Day
When is World Physiotherapy Day celebrated?
Every year on 8 September, commemorating the founding of World Physiotherapy in 1951.
What is the theme for World Physiotherapy Day 2025?
Healthy Ageing, with a focus on preventing frailty and falls among older adults.
Why is this theme important?
With global ageing trends—1 billion people aged 60+ in 2019, expected to rise to 2.1 billion by 2050—physiotherapy’s role in promoting mobility, independence, and fall prevention is more vital than ever.
What resources are available for promoting the campaign?
The World PT Day 2025 toolkit includes information sheets, posters, banners, social media graphics, activity and advocacy guides, and t-shirt designs—created for public awareness and not to be altered.
Why is there an acute shortage of physiotherapists in Bihar?
An article from the Times of India reports rising demand for rehabilitation services in Bihar, especially for surgery recovery and geriatric care—but the shortage persists due to limited training institutions, inadequate government hiring, and poor infrastructure.
How does this shortage impact patient care in Bihar?
The lack of physiotherapists strains the healthcare system and leaves many elderly or post-surgery patients without essential rehabilitation support.
