Dar es Salaam September 8, 2024: The Aga Khan Hospital Dar es Salaam proudly joined the global community today in celebrating World Physiotherapy Day, which is observed annually on September 8. This year’s focus was on addressing low back pain (LBP), a prevalent issue affecting millions worldwide. As a leading healthcare provider, The Aga Khan Hospital is committed to raising awareness about the vital role physiotherapy plays in enhancing health, mobility, and independence.
In celebration of World Physiotherapy Day, the hospital organized a free screening camp focused on low back pain. Participants received a range of valuable services, including complimentary educational sessions, personalized consultations with expert physiotherapists, and special discounts on treatment plans. As the only JCIA-accredited institution in Tanzania, the Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam is committed to delivering individualized, expert care to promote recovery and support pain-free lifestyle. The hospital accomplishes this through specialized self-care educational programmes, tailored exercise regimens, and effective physiotherapy techniques like manual therapy.
World Physiotherapy Day, established by the World Confederation of Physical Therapy (now World Physiotherapy) in 1996, underscores the essential role of physiotherapy in managing and preventing low back pain. LBP is a significant global health issue, affecting 619 million people in 2020 and standing as the leading cause of disability. Often non-specific and not linked to a single identifiable cause, LBP can impact anyone. Effective management through physiotherapy is crucial for improving overall health and reducing the risk of future episodes.
During the event, Simion Gundah, head of the Physiotherapy Department at the Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam highlighted the importance of physiotherapy in achieving a pain-free future. He remarked, “Physiotherapy is key to unlocking a pain-free future, where the strength of our backs supports the strength of our lives,” emphasizing the critical role of back health in overall well-being and quality of life.
About Aga Khan Health Service, Tanzania
Aga Khan Health Service, Tanzania (AKHS,T) is a pivotal agency within the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), dedicated to advancing health initiatives. Operating as a private, not-for-profit organisation, AKHS,T has established itself as an integrated health system spanning across Tanzania. It boasts robust linkages and partnerships with the government of Tanzania, primarily through the Ministry of Health, alongside other key national and international stakeholders. The organization comprises two hospitals located in Mwanza and Dar es Salaam, along with 22 Outreach Health Centres (OHCs) spread across 13 regions of mainland Tanzania, and an additional facility situated in Zanzibar Island.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Davies W. Nyari
davies.nyari@akhst.org