World Physical Therapy Day 2009 activities - United States of America

The Physical Therapy Department at the University of South Alabama celebrated World Physical Therapy Day on 8th September 2009 with two international lectures (through live, free Skype video conferencing). Dr Dennis Fell, Chair of the PT Department, invited two PT friends and colleagues to give presentations to the Doctor of Physical Therapy students in his program.

Dr Esther Munalula, Chair of Physical Therapy, University of Zambia, Africa, presented a noon lecture on "Physical Therapy for HIV/AIDS in Africa".  She captured the attention of the faculty and students with the amazing statistics about HIV/AIDS particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, and what PTs there are doing to address the problem.

Dr Kyoung Kim, Director of Physical Therapy, Daegu University, South Korea, presented his evening lecture on "Cardiovascular Physical Therapy in South Korea", including an excellent outline of a case study including examination, intervention and outcomes. The photograph shows department Faculty and Student class officers posing for a group photo with Dr Kim at the completion of the lecture.

It was a fabulous experience with great opportunities for international collaboration and collegial development.