National PMR Day 2026
6 July 2026
Theme: “Rehabilitation is Essential, Not Optional”
The IAPMR Kerala Chapter is observing National PMR Day on 6 July 2026 as per the recommendation of Indian Association of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (IAPMR)
This year’s theme, “Rehabilitation is Essential, Not Optional,” reinforces a fundamental principle of modern healthcare—that rehabilitation is an indispensable component of comprehensive patient care. Timely, evidence-based, physiatrist-led rehabilitation enables individuals with disability and functional impairment to achieve their highest possible level of independence, participation, and quality of life.
National PMR Day is an opportunity to reaffirm our collective commitment to advancing the specialty of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation through excellence in clinical practice, education, research, and advocacy. It also serves as a reminder of the need to ensure equitable access to comprehensive rehabilitation services for all who can benefit from them.
We extend our best wishes to the PMR fraternity on the occasion of National PMR Day 2026 and calls upon all stakeholders to continue championing the cause of rehabilitation as an essential healthcare service.
— National PMR Day Observance at Various Centres —
1. Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram: The Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) at Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram, marked National PMR Day with a comprehensive program dedicated to patient empowerment, multidisciplinary teamwork, and health education. The event brought together medical professionals, nursing staff, therapists, and patient advocates to celebrate the transformative power of rehabilitation.
The program commenced with a warm welcome address by Dr. Santhosh K Raghavan, Professor and Head of the Department of PMR, who highlighted the department’s ongoing commitment to restoring function and quality of life for patients. Setting the thematic tone for the day, Dr. Selvan P, President of the IAPMR Kerala Chapter, delivered an insightful keynote address. He emphasized the evolving scope of Physiatry and the critical need for comprehensive rehabilitation in modern healthcare.
The event featured felicitations from senior faculty and key members of the rehabilitation team. Dr. Chitra G, Professor and Unit Chief of PMR, addressed the gathering, lending her clinical expertise and support to the day’s initiatives.
The emotional core of the observance was the session featuring the Guests of Honour, who shared their personal journeys of overcoming severe physical challenges. Mr. Ratheesh and Mrs. Sindhu (President of the All Kerala Wheelchair Rights Federation) captivated the audience with their successful life stories following spinal cord injuries. Their lived experiences served as a powerful testament to the necessity of structural support and dedicated rehabilitation. Joining them was Mr. Sunil, a polio survivor, who eloquently spoke on how timely rehabilitation and resilience can help individuals lead fulfilling, independent lives.
Following the inspiring personal narratives, the focus shifted to health education. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Laxmi Mohan, Assistant Professor in PMR, the Junior Resident doctors of the department conducted a series of highly informative awareness classes tailored for patients and their caregivers. The essential topics covered included: Prevention and management of Pressure Injuries, Techniques for Contracture Prevention, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Prevention, Bowel and Bladder Rehabilitation and Prevention of Aspiration Pneumonia.
– Dr Selvan P
2. Government Genaral Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram
The Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation , Government General Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram, observed National PMR Day with the theme “PMR is Essential, Not Optional.”
The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Bindhu G.S., Consultant, PMR,who also gave an introductory awareness talk on the significance of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Dr. Sindhu K. Nair, Chief Consultant, Kerala Health Services, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the expanding role of PMR in modern healthcare.
The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Krishnaveni, who emphasized the importance of rehabilitation services in improving functional independence of patients and quality of life. Dr. Sindhuja N S JC PMR, delivered the theme talk, emphasizing that rehabilitation is not a choice, but a necessity. She highlighted that comprehensive rehabilitation facilities are available at Government General Hospital, including several advanced and expensive rehabilitation services which are provided free of cost to eligible patients.
She explained how timely rehabilitation empowers persons with disabilities to regain independence, improve mobility and function, return to education and employment, and ultimately enhance their quality of life, reinforcing the message that “Rehabilitation is Essential, Not Optional.”
Around 50 participants, including house surgeons, nursing students, physiotherapy students, nursing officers, and other hospital staff, attended the programme. The observance made a meaningful initiative to promote awareness about rehabilitation in healthcare.
– Dr Sindhu K Nair
3. Aster Medcity Kochi
– Dr Zachariah T Zachariah
4. Kozhikode District Cooperative Hospital
Poster was put up in our Entrance for every one to see. A talk was recorded and posted in our Hospital groups
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