International Women’s Day 2025 carries the theme “Accelerate Action”, urging us to take swift and impactful steps toward improving women’s health. One crucial yet often overlooked aspect of women’s healthcare is physiotherapy, which plays a vital role in managing and preventing various musculoskeletal and systemic conditions that affect women throughout their lives. From pregnancy-related musculoskeletal disorders to osteoporosis and chronic pelvic pain, physiotherapy offers evidence-based interventions to enhance mobility, relieve pain, and restore function.
This blog explores how physiotherapy addresses key health concerns specific to women and how it empowers them to lead healthier, pain-free lives.
Musculoskeletal Disorders in Women and the Role of Physiotherapy
Women experience distinct musculoskeletal challenges due to hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, menopause, and anatomical differences. Some of the most common issues include:
A. Osteoporosis and Fracture Prevention
Issue: Osteoporosis affects 1 in 3 women over 50, increasing fracture risk, particularly in the spine, hips, and wrists.
Physiotherapy Approach:
a) Weight-bearing exercises (e.g., walking, stair climbing) to improve bone density.
b) Resistance training to enhance muscle strength and joint stability.
c) Balance training to prevent falls and related fractures.
B. Arthritis and Joint Pain Management
Issue: Women are more prone to rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, leading to joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Physiotherapy Approach:
a) Hydrotherapy (water-based therapy) for low-impact joint mobility.
b) Manual therapy and joint mobilization to reduce stiffness.
c) Exercise therapy to strengthen supporting muscles and reduce joint load.
C. Postural Dysfunction and Chronic Back Pain
Issue: Many women develop poor posture due to desk jobs, pregnancy-related weight shifts, or weak core muscles, resulting in chronic neck, shoulder, and back pain.
Physiotherapy Approach:
a) Ergonomic corrections for better posture at work and home.
b) Core stabilization exercises (e.g., Pilates) to support the spine.
c) Stretching and strengthening programs for muscle balance.
Women’s Health and Physiotherapy: Beyond Musculoskeletal Issues
A. Pregnancy and Postpartum Rehabilitation
Issue: Pregnancy causes physiological and biomechanical changes leading to pelvic girdle pain, diastasis recti (abdominal separation), and postpartum musculoskeletal weakness.
Physiotherapy Approach:
a) Pelvic floor rehabilitation to prevent incontinence and prolapse.
b) Prenatal and postnatal exercises to strengthen abdominal and lower back muscles.
c) Breathing techniques and relaxation therapy for labour preparation and postpartum recovery.
B. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (PFD)
Issue: Conditions such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and painful intercourse are often due to weak or overly tight pelvic floor muscles.
Physiotherapy Approach:
a) Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) (e.g., Kegel exercises) to improve strength and function.
b) Biofeedback and electrical stimulation for neuromuscular re-education.
c) Manual therapy and relaxation techniques for hypertonic (overactive) pelvic muscles.
C. Endometriosis and Chronic Pelvic Pain
Issue: Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women, causing severe pain and mobility restrictions.
Physiotherapy Approach:
a) Soft tissue mobilization and visceral manipulation to reduce adhesions and pain.
b) Nerve desensitization techniques for pain relief.
c) Exercise therapy to improve blood flow and muscle relaxation.
D. Menopause-Related Musculoskeletal Changes
Issue: Hormonal decline during menopause contributes to joint stiffness, muscle loss, and increased risk of osteoporosis.
Physiotherapy Approach:
a) Strength and resistance training to maintain muscle mass and bone health.
b) Flexibility exercises to relieve joint stiffness.
c) Pelvic floor therapy to prevent urinary incontinence.
Empowering Women Through Physiotherapy
Beyond treating conditions, physiotherapy plays a crucial role in preventative healthcare and education. Women should be encouraged to incorporate physiotherapy-based practices daily to maintain overall well-being. Early intervention can significantly improve health outcomes, reduce the risk of disability, and enhance the quality of life. Incorporating physiotherapy into routine health check-ups can encourage early intervention and prevention.
The 2025 Women’s Day theme, “Accelerate Action,” is a call to prioritize women’s health through proactive measures. Physiotherapy serves as a powerful tool to address musculoskeletal issues, pelvic health concerns, and systemic conditions unique to women.
This Women’s Day, let’s accelerate action toward better healthcare for women-because their well-being shapes the future.
