Physiotherapists could play a key role in executing a new weight management programme, it has been suggested, after new guidelines have been released on the issue.

The guidelines, released by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), hope to provide the latest quality standard for reducing and preventing obesity. 

Focusing on adults, the recommendations looks at the benefits of introducing integrated weight management programmes. They are also in line with the NHS Five Year Forward View on preventing avoidable ill health.

Many physiotherapists are already involved in similar initiatives, but those in the profession could find this becoming a more central part of their role under the new drive from NICE.

As such, the 'Obesity in adults: prevention and lifestyle weight management programmes' document has been welcomed by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists (CSP).

Under the new standard, all healthcare professionals who come into contact with an overweight or obese person should be in the position to give them information about weight management programmes in the local area. This includes having the right training and skills to be able to deliver this advice in the right way.

The role of others, including family members and carers, is also highlighted in the guidance. It says these key people should be involved to ensure people are able to maintain a healthy weight.

Physiotherapists are an important part of a multidisciplinary team who will be responsible for delivering these programmes, professional adviser at the CSP Priya Dasoju said.

The new guidelines by NICE should encourage the implementation of more weight management programmes, she added.

"Physiotherapy staff not only have the skills to deliver the actions and interventions outlined in the standard but they also have a key role in signposting to local weight management programmes where appropriate," said Ms Dasoju.

NICE emphasises the need for coordinated weight management programmes to be integrated and it suggests a range of community-based agencies to deliver them.

Written by Megan Smith