On 8 September 2024, we celebrate World PT Day by highlighting how physiotherapists and physical therapists all over the world are tackling one of the most prevalent global health challenges – low back pain (LBP).  Did you know that LBP affects 1 in 13 people and is the leading cause of disability worldwide? Physiotherapy, also known as Physical Therapy, plays an important role in the prevention, management, and rehabilitation of LBP.  Join us in spreading awareness of how our profession is helping millions of people live healthier, pain-free lives!

On World PT Day every year physiotherapists unite to celebrate the importance of our profession. This year LBP is taking the stage. With an estimated 619 million people experiencing LBP in 2020 alone, making up 1 in 13 people, it is the leading cause of disability worldwide. This year, we aim to raise awareness about the role physiotherapy plays in preventing, managing, and rehabilitating this condition.

LBP is not only common but also one of the top conditions for which people seek rehabilitation. Physiotherapists have a toolkit of skills and knowledge and are experts when it comes to providing expert advice, tailored treatment, and guidance that supports recovery and helps prevent future episodes of LBP.

Low back pain is a condition that can affect individuals of any age and at any stage of life
Although almost everyone will experience LBP at some point, it only becomes chronic (lasting more than three months) for a minority
90% of LBP cases are non-specific – meaning there isn’t a single structure like a joint, muscle, ligament or disc that can be identified as the cause

Physiotherapists have an important role in the management of LBP providing non-surgical interventions that are not just focused on pain management but on improving overall health and fitness and reducing the likelihood of future episodes. So how can physiotherapy make a difference? By treating every person as an individual and developing treatment plans based on their goals:

Education Physiotherapists provide education that supports knowledge and self-care strategies, helping patients understand their condition and take control of their recovery.
Supervised exercise Exercise is one of the most effective treatments for LBP. While no single type of exercise has been identified, remaining active and exercising regularly is important. Physiotherapists work with patients to find the right exercise that suits their needs and abilities, ensuring a safe and effective recovery.
Manual therapy and other interventions Physiotherapists may also use manual therapy and other evidence-based interventions to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Beyond the physical Physiotherapy is not just about physical symptoms. It is a profession that helps patients understand their pain, supporting recovery and independence in daily activities.

As we celebrate World PT Day 2024, let’s come together to spread the facts about low back pain and the life-changing benefits of physiotherapy. By sharing knowledge and raising awareness, we can help millions of people manage their pain, regain their independence, and improve their overall quality of life. Whether it’s through social media, community events, or one-on-one conversations, every effort counts in making a difference.

There are some awesome resources from World Physiotherapy available in multiple languages for you to share with your communities and advocate for physiotherapy for LBP.

World PT Day 2024 is an opportunity to educate and empower our communities and remind everyone that physiotherapy is not just about treating pain – it’s about helping you live the best life possible. Whether through personalised treatment programmes, education and advice on ergonomics and safe handling techniques, or giving general encouragement to be active and be physically active, physiotherapists can help people overcome low back pain and live healthier, happier lives.