Each year on December 3rd, communities around the world recognize the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). This day is dedicated to promoting inclusion, accessibility, and equal participation for people of all abilities. At Premier Physiotherapy Clinic in Ottawa, we believe that everyone deserves equitable access to high-quality, person-centered rehabilitation that supports the dignity of our clients and their quality of life.
Did you know?
As per the 2022 Canadian Survey on Disability (CSD):
- 27% of Canadians (~8 million) aged 15 and over reported having at least one disability.
- Pain, mental health, flexibility and mobility-related limitations are the most prevalent reasons for disability among working-age adults.
- Females have a higher rate of disability than males in all age groups, with the exception of those in the category aged 65-74 years.
- The severity of disability increases with age, and our Canadian population is aging.
Common Limitations Treated in Physiotherapy:
- Pain-related: Chronic pain or illness, trauma related, related to musculoskeletal conditions (ex: back pain, neck pain, knee-pain, arthritis-related, myofascial-related pains)
- Flexibility-related: Limitations in range of motion, joint stiffness, reduced flexibility
- Mobility-related: Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, standing, transferring (sit-to-stand, getting in and out of bed, getting in and out of the car), reliance on mobility aids (walkers, canes, wheelchair), reduced independence in moving
How can Premier Physiotherapy Clinic help?
Physiotherapy visits often occur when managing a condition gets in the way of daily life. Whether the challenge involves navigating daily routines with less pain, increasing independence, or returning to meaningful hobbies, we’re here to help you!
What can you expect in physiotherapy:
- Assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal-related conditions
- Pain management strategies
- Manual therapy techniques to optimize movement and mobility
- Guidance on modified work or lifestyle strategies
- Explore resources for accessible services in the community
- Education on proper use of mobility devices such as canes, walkers, orthotics, and braces.
Our Commitment to Accessible Care in Ottawa- Premier Physiotherapy Clinic in Ottawa strives to:
- Provide barrier-free access to our clinic (ex: wheelchair accessible, lighting, virtual or paper intake forms, bilingual services, open external communication via phone or email).
- Offering personalized and evidence-based care plans.
- Educating our community about inclusive and efficient health care practices.
- Supporting individuals at every level of ability with compassionate care.
- Welcoming feedback from our patients to improve our services.
Why Inclusive Physiotherapy Matters
Every patient deserves dignity, inclusion, and equal opportunity to participate in physiotherapy and accessible health care services in their community. Patients should feel comfortable in their care environment and feel that their care provider is truly there to help them navigate their lived experiences. Whether someone lives with a long-term health condition, a mobility-related disability, chronic pain, is recovering from injury, or requires divergent approaches in their care plan, physiotherapy is meant to support clients in maximizing participation in their everyday activities.
Celebrating International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Today is an opportunity to learn about accessibility and disability inclusion, celebrate the achievements and contributions of people of all abilities, advocate for inclusive and accessible healthcare services and community participation, and recognize barriers faced by individuals and commit to addressing them. As healthcare providers, we are proud to support this mission through our physiotherapy service that empowers people across Ottawa to move with confidence and live life fully.
Book an appointment with Premier Physiotherapy Clinic in Ottawa today!
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