Overview:
World Physical Therapy Day is observed annually on September 8 to raise awareness of the role of physical therapy in improving movement and functional ability, reducing disability, and supporting prevention and rehabilitation. In 2026, the focus is on the role of physical therapy and physical activity in preventing cardiovascular disease and stroke, contributing to their management, and supporting rehabilitation after these conditions.
Objectives:
- Raise awareness of the role of physical therapy and physical activity in preventing cardiovascular disease and stroke.
- Highlight the importance of regular physical activity as part of cardiovascular and stroke prevention.
- Highlight the role of rehabilitation and physical therapy in restoring movement, functional ability, and independence after stroke.
- Raise awareness of the importance of cardiac rehabilitation programs for eligible people following heart disease.
- Promote access to appropriate rehabilitation services as an essential part of integrated healthcare.
Facts:
- An estimated 2.4 billion people globally live with a health condition that may benefit from rehabilitation services.
- Rehabilitation aims to improve functional ability and reduce disability and may include strength, movement, and balance exercises after stroke.
- Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally, causing approximately 17.9 million deaths each year, with heart attacks and strokes accounting for more than four-fifths of these deaths.
- Physical inactivity is one of the major behavioral risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease and stroke, alongside an unhealthy diet and smoking.
Official Date:
Globally: September 8th, 2026.
Locally: Rabi' al-Awwal 26th, 1448H.
References:
World Physiotherapy – World Physical Therapy Day 2026.
World Health Organization – Cardiovascular Diseases.
World Health Organization – Rehabilitation.