Physiotherapy today is no longer merely limb-saving but life-saving. It is not an answer to every problem and its results are obtained, not only from the technique, but from the courage and co-operation of the patient. Hope and faith, too, are important allies to both patient and therapist. Physical Medicine and Physiotherapy treatment, following trauma incidents and accidents and due to other medical conditions are not yet enough in scope and coverage in our country, but is in better shape than trauma-management centres and emergency units of hospitals.

Physical medicine covers a wide field and provides a variety of treatments designed to restore movement and functional activity, to relieve spasm and to promote healing. Massage, electrotherapy, exercises and water-therapy all play their part in the programme of treatment and the best results are obtained by a judicious use of all. Treatment, especially in long-term cases, usually begins in the hospital.

Some particular method may prove beneficial to people of all age groups and with a variety of complaints. It may help elderly people unable to get about owing to strokes or arthritis, young motor cyclists after accidents, sportsmen after injury, patients recovering from accidents or illness, and even mothers before and after confinement. On the other hand, other methods may have more limited application and will be suitable for certain kinds of disability only.

This week's cover story is on Physiotherapy so that our health professionals and our readers can recognise the need and right of all members of the community, rich and poor, to receive treatment when necessary, to help them to remain mobile and independent.