Physical Therapy: A Key Partner in Preventing Heart Diseases and Strokes

The Women’s Physiotherapy Department at the Hospital of Physical Medicine and Health Rehabilitation celebrated World Physiotherapy Day under the theme “The Role of Physiotherapy and Physical Activity in Preventing Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke,” as part of efforts to enhance health awareness, reinforce the concept of prevention, and encourage community members to adopt healthier and more active lifestyles.

The event was attended by Dr. Jamal Mohammad Jamal, Head of the Medical Board and Director of the Hospital of Physical Medicine and Health Rehabilitation; Dr. Abdulrazzaq Al-Zafiri, Head of the Outpatient Clinics Department; Nafisa Kamal, Head of the Women’s Physiotherapy Department; Layla Qasim, Head of the Children’s Physiotherapy Department; Mohammed Ruwai’i, Head of the Men’s Physiotherapy Department; along with a number of medical and technical staff, patients, and visitors.

Dr. Jamal emphasized the important role played by physiotherapy and physical activity within the healthcare system, noting that promoting a culture of prevention and engaging in regular physical activity contribute to reducing risk factors associated with many chronic diseases, particularly cardiovascular diseases and strokes.

For her part, Nafisa Kamal, Head of the Women’s Physiotherapy Department, stated that physiotherapy is no longer limited to the rehabilitation phase after injury or surgery, but has become a crucial element in prevention, health promotion, maintaining mobility and functional capacity, and improving quality of life.

She pointed out that global figures reflect the growing need for rehabilitation services, explaining that World Health Organization estimates indicate that approximately 2.4 billion people worldwide live with health conditions that could benefit from rehabilitation services. Demand for these services is expected to continue rising due to increasing life expectancy and the prevalence of chronic diseases.