The Physiotherapy Department of Alimosho General Hospital commemorated World Physiotherapy Day 2026 by providing free consultations, screenings and treatment to hospital staff and patients.
The programme, organised as part of the activities marking this year’s World Physiotherapy Day, focused on the theme, “Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke,” and highlighted the vital role of physiotherapy in the prevention, management and rehabilitation of patients affected by cardiovascular conditions and stroke.
Speaking at the event, the Medical Director/Chief Executive Officer of Alimosho General Hospital, Dr. Akinyele Akinlade, commended the Physiotherapy Department for its dedication and commitment to delivering quality healthcare.
Dr. Akinlade emphasised the importance of collaboration among healthcare professionals, noting that no medical speciality is superior to another, as all healthcare professionals work together to provide comprehensive patient care.
According to the MD/CEO, the management of stroke and cardiovascular diseases requires the combined expertise of various healthcare professionals. He explained that while doctors examine patients and prescribe appropriate treatment, physiotherapists play a critical role in rehabilitation and the restoration of patients’ functional abilities.
Dr. Akinlade further stressed the importance of patients taking responsibility for their health by adhering strictly to medical advice, maintaining proper hygiene, and making healthy nutritional and lifestyle choices.
Speaking on the importance of nutrition in maintaining cardiovascular and brain health, Dietitian Oludayo Sowoolu-Coates encouraged participants to regard food as an essential component of disease prevention and management.
She emphasised the need for planned and intentional eating, explaining that a healthy diet involves consuming essential vitamins and minerals in appropriate quantities and proportions.
Oludayo advised participants to reduce their intake of unhealthy foods, practice proper food storage and preparation, and ensure that meals are appropriately portioned to promote cardiovascular and brain health.
Speaking on cardiovascular disease and stroke, Physiotherapist PT. Olalekan Babaseesin dispelled the misconception that stroke is a spiritual affliction, stressing that it is a medical condition requiring prompt medical attention.
He explained that stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted, either by a blockage or a ruptured blood vessel, potentially resulting in damage to brain cells.
He identified paralysis, facial deviation and slurred speech, among other signs, as possible symptoms of stroke and urged members of the public to seek immediate medical attention whenever such symptoms are observed.
PT. Babaseesin highlighted the role of the Physiotherapy Department of Alimosho General Hospital in providing preventive health education on stroke risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol and smoking.
He added that the department also provides management and rehabilitation services for stroke patients, with the aim of supporting functional recovery and improving their quality of life.
As part of the activities marking the celebration, the Medical Director approved a free screening and treatment session for participants.
Other highlights of the event included free blood pressure and blood sugar checks, physiotherapy consultations and treatment, health education, and the distribution of souvenirs to participants.