Physiotherapy is a field of science dealing with physical agents and using
them to bring about positive changes to the health of the receiver. Hence,
it has to be highly objective in nature and its results should be reproducible
on application of same treatment techniques on similar conditions. However,
it does not hold true in clinical practice. It is observed by every physiotherapist
that a similar technique can bring about dissimilar results in patients with
similar conditions. This is because of the difference in the skill levels, effort,
basic knowledge, dedication, and will of the treatment provider. Thus, execution
of the treatment is an art. Physiotherapy is a combination of science and
art. Science is the body and art is the soul of physiotherapy. In this light,
we can say that physiotherapy is also subjective in nature. This combination
of ‘objectivity’ and ‘subjectivity’ gives a unique flavor to this profession.
Subjectivity, rather than becoming a negative trait, blossoms like a flower
when a physiotherapist is treating a patient.
A lot has been written on physiotherapeutic management of a patient suffering
from hemiplegia/paresis by developed nations. But, as a matter of fact, the
requirement of the patient as well as availability of resources does differ from
nation to nation. Our nation too has a different approach to disease, disability
and impairment and hence, subtle changes are mandatory and strongly advocated
in approach towards the condition and its treatment.
Hemiplegia is not just a neurological or a musculoskeletal dysfunction,
but rather is a dysfunction of the personality as a whole. It is extremely difficult
for the patient to keep his physical disability and its psychological impact
separate. This psychosocial impact on the patient’s life spreads its fangs towards
their respective family members too, and they become victims of the situation.
Thus, there arose a need to address the issue of physiotherapeutic management
of hemiplegia in a new light, focusing on needs of our society.
This treatment guide would be beneficial to all the physiotherapy students
and fresh graduates who want to make difference in the lives of the patients
by doing justice to their profession. This book can become a useful guide
for a practicing physiotherapist (undergraduate/postgraduate) working in private
setup, government setup, hospitals or as a homecare therapist, for a quick