Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital hosted Uganda’s national World Physiotherapy Day celebrations, courtesy of the Uganda Association of Physiotherapists. The event featured back exercises, free medical check-ups, and a procession through Mbarara city to raise awareness.
Ms. Mary Nabbosa, Principal Physiotherapist and Head of the Physiotherapy Department at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, highlighted the long history of physiotherapy services in Uganda, dating back to the 1970s at Mulago Hospital. “Physiotherapy services were further expanded to Mbarara University Teaching Hospital, now Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, in 1981, pioneered by the late Godwin Kasaija Apuuli.”
The Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital Public Relations Officer, Halison Kagure, noted that the hospital receives hundreds of patients seeking physiotherapy services daily, with over 100 patients on a given day.
Mr. Herman Kazibwe, Head of Physiotherapy Training at Mbarara University of Science and Technology, emphasized the importance of physiotherapy in improving patients’ mobility and function. “Back pain is a significant contributor to physiotherapy-related conditions. We use a wide range of methods that don’t heavily rely on drugs to improve quality of life.”
Dr. Isaac Kakooza, President of the Uganda Association of Physiotherapy, expressed concern about the prevalence of back pain among the populace. “Many people live with back pain, thinking it’s normal, yet physiotherapy can play a crucial role in alleviating such conditions.”
He urged the population to desist from seeking services from unauthorized massage homes.
Dr. Deus Twesigye, Acting Director of Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, commended the Uganda Association of Physiotherapy for supporting the event. However, he challenged them to work towards streamlining physiotherapy services, especially with the proliferation of unauthorized clinics.
In response, Mr. Robert Kanusu, Presidential Representative in Mbarara city, pledged support from the Office of the President to regulate physiotherapy services and eliminate quackery. “We urge people to utilize government hospitals with certified professionals rather than being mismanaged by unqualified personnel.”
The event offered free screening services, benefiting hundreds of people from Mbarara and beyond. This year’s theme focused on low back pain and the role of physiotherapy in its management and prevention.
