World Physiotherapy Day is celebrated annually on September 8th. The focus of World Physiotherapy  Day in 2023 is arthritis, with an in-depth look at some forms of inflammatory arthritis, including  rheumatoid arthritis and axial spondyloarthritis. 

This follows on from the theme for 2022, which focused on osteoarthritis. 

The campaign is focused on the following key messages. 

• Arthritis is defined as an acute or chronic joint inflammation. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, stiffness, and redness, which may contribute to reduced function and dexterity. Arthritis isn’t a single condition; there are many different types. 
• It can affect people of all ages and physical fitness – including children, teenagers, and athletes. Some forms of arthritis are more common in older people.
• The symptoms of arthritis can vary from week to week and even from day to day. It can also affect people in different ways, and each condition will have specific symptoms. However, with the right treatment and approach, you can manage your symptoms and live well. 
• Regular physical activity and exercise are important in the management of all forms of inflammatory arthritis (IA), including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and axial spondyloarthritis.
• Physiotherapy is an important part of your overall treatment. A physiotherapist will guide you on how to exercise safely, increase your activity levels, set goals, and find the right balance between rest and activity. • It’s important to stay active and keep moving when you have arthritis. Physiotherapists are part of a multidisciplinary team that can help you manage your arthritis. They will be able to assess your condition and  abilities and guide you on how to keep active and help manage your symptoms. 
• Arthritis is often associated with older people, but it can also affect children. Most types of childhood arthritis are known as juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Physiotherapy plays an important role in the management of the symptoms of JIA and will help you/your child do the activities you like doing. 

On behalf of the Physiotherapy Association of Saint Lucia (PASL) Inc., president Elaine Clement would like to wish all  Physiotherapists “Happy World Physiotherapy Day 2023”.  

In celebrating World Physiotherapy Day this year and in keeping with the theme of Inflammatory Arthritis,  The Physiotherapy Association of St Lucia will be hosting a free health talk entitled: Inflammatory Arthritis – The Role  of the Physiotherapist 

Date: Friday, September 8th, 2023  

Time: 1: 00 p.m. 

Venue: Pastoral Centre, Eastwinds Gap, Marisule, Gros-Islet.  

In seeking the assistance of a physiotherapist, the President of PASL Inc. is advising that you ensure that your  physiotherapist is qualified and that this professional is licensed to practice in St. Lucia.  

Information pertaining to licensed physiotherapists can be obtained from the Allied Health Council of St Lucia at  telephone number 1-758-458-2102 / 1-758-716-0772 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

General information and advice on the physiotherapy profession can also be obtained from the Physiotherapy  Association of Saint Lucia Inc. by telephone number 1-758-485-6553 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.