CRC A&N Islands Organises Awareness Program on Osteoarthritis for Nursing Students in Celebration of Physiotherapy Day 2024

Tarun Karthick

Sri Vijaya Puram, 30 September 2024

In observance of Physiotherapy Day 2024, the Composite Regional Centre (CRC) for Skill Development, Rehabilitation & Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, organised a specialised awareness program titled ‘Osteoarthritis: Its Management and Recent Advancements.’ The event, held at Lecture Hall 2 of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Institute of Medical Sciences (ANIIMS), was aimed at educating nursing students, physiotherapists, and healthcare professionals about osteoarthritis and the latest developments in its treatment.

The program, a collaborative effort between CRC, ANIIMS, and the School of Nursing, Directorate of Health Services (DHS), brought together key figures from the healthcare sector to promote better understanding and management of osteoarthritis, a condition affecting millions worldwide.

Dr. Shiny Varghese, Principal of the School of Nursing, DHS, graced the event as the special guest. In her address, Dr. Varghese emphasized the significance of the collaboration between CRC, ANIIMS, and the School of Nursing, highlighting its role in enhancing healthcare education and practices within the region. She expressed her appreciation for the joint effort to advance the knowledge and skills of healthcare professionals in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Ms. Hafsa Bibi, Vice Principal of the School of Nursing, also provided valuable insights during the program.

The highlight of the event was a series of lectures by expert speakers. Dr. Vishu, Head of the Department of Orthopedics at ANIIMS, shared his expertise on the latest treatment options available for osteoarthritis patients. He discussed both surgical and non-surgical interventions, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and the role of personalized care in managing the condition. Mr. T.Y. Abid, a Lecturer in Physiotherapy at CRC A&N Islands, focused on physiotherapy management, detailing the advancements in physiotherapeutic techniques that have significantly improved patient outcomes.

The awareness program received enthusiastic participation from nursing students, physiotherapists, and healthcare professionals, who engaged in discussions on the challenges posed by osteoarthritis and the best practices for treatment and care. The event not only helped raise awareness but also strengthened the collaborative ties between healthcare institutions in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

With osteoarthritis being a growing concern, especially among ageing populations, such programs play a vital role in equipping healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective patient care. The event concluded with a call for continued collaboration in addressing healthcare challenges and improving patient outcomes in the region.