World Physical Therapy Day is on 8th September. The day is an opportunity for physical therapists from all over the world to raise awareness about the crucial contribution the profession makes to keeping people well, mobile and independent.

WCPT has produced a complete package of resources to help you plan and publicise events and campaigns for World Physical Therapy Day. This toolkit includes ideas, practical advice, information about the benefits of physical therapy, posters, leaflets, logos, banners and press releases. There is also a resource list for facts, research findings, statistics and articles to help you demonstrate the contribution of physical therapists.

The overarching theme for World Physical Therapy Day each year is Movement for Health. This year, the suggested message is “Add life to years”, highlighting the important role that physical therapists play in healthy ageing.

Why World Physical Therapy Day matters?

In 1996, WCPT designated 8th September as World Physical Therapy Day. This is the date WCPT was founded in 1951.

The day marks the unity and solidarity of the global physical therapy community. It is an opportunity to recognise the work that physical therapists do for their patients and community. Using World Physical Therapy Day as a focus, WCPT aims to support member organisations in their efforts to promote the profession and advance their expertise.

Reports from around the world indicate that World Physical Therapy Day activities have a positive impact on the profession’s profile and standing with both the public and policy makers.

Many WCPT member organisations already have their own national physical therapy days, weeks and months. However, organisations that have no designated day of their own often choose 8th September.

It is up to individual physical therapists and WCPT member organisations to decide what activities and materials they wish to develop.  That way, they can reflect key national priorities and messages. But each year WCPT provides ideas, publicity and support materials.

We are happy to publish brief details of activities planned by WCPT member organisations. Please send details to info@wcpt.org.