Unqualified physiotherapists worsen chronic pain with unproven remedies
In Mbarara and other cities across Uganda, the increasing presence of unqualified physiotherapy providers is raising alarms among healthcare professionals.
Many patients, desperate for relief from chronic pain, are spending large amounts on medications, while effective alternatives like physiotherapy and exercise could provide more sustainable, long-term solutions.
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“Physiotherapy, particularly for managing conditions like lower back pain, is more focused on exercise than drugs,” stated Dr. Twesigye Deus, the acting director of Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, during the National celebration of World PT Day 2024, hosted by Mbarara University of Science and Technology and Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital.
"The advantage of physiotherapy is that we use hands and electricity to treat specific painful body parts, unlike drugs, which many people are reluctant to take as they can often worsen pain."
He emphasized that physiotherapy can help patients avoid long-term dependence on medications while still improving their health.
Despite these benefits, Uganda is experiencing a surge in unlicensed practitioners offering herbal remedies and unproven treatments, posing serious risks to patients.
Deputy Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Robert Kanusu highlighted the dangers posed by these unqualified providers, who are exploiting patients seeking quick fixes for their ailments.
"Some individuals are providing physiotherapy services without the necessary qualifications, putting lives at risk," Kanusu warned.
He also pointed out that some of these providers use herbal treatments that are not medically approved, which can worsen a patient's condition rather than improve it.
This issue is further compounded by a lack of awareness among Ugandans about the importance of seeking qualified care for physiotherapy-related conditions, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation.
Having personally benefited from physiotherapy after a work-related injury, Kanusu praised the work of licensed physiotherapists and urged the public to seek out these essential services.
He also called on the Uganda Association of Physiotherapy, Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, and other responsible bodies to strengthen regulations in the sector to ensure that only trained professionals are licensed to practice.
Francis Nanyonjo, a lecturer in the physiotherapy department at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), echoed these concerns, warning that improper treatment can lead to long-term complications.
“Eight in ten people will experience back pain at some point in their lives,” she noted. “If not managed properly, back pain can become a leading cause of disability, which can significantly impact a household’s income.”
Nanyonjo emphasized that delays in seeking proper medical and physiotherapy services only worsen conditions and place further financial strain on families struggling to treat pain.
“If this situation continues, the cycle of pain, disability, and financial hardship will persist,” she cautioned.
The call for better regulation and public awareness aims to curb the proliferation of unqualified physiotherapists and ensure safer, more effective treatment for all patients in Uganda.
