The Palestinian Ministry of Health in the Gaza Strip stated on Tuesday that physiotherapy and rehabilitation services have become a “lifeline” for thousands of wounded and injured individuals, given the large number of injuries, amputations, and neurological damage caused by the war.
In a statement marking World Physiotherapy Day, which falls on September 8, the Ministry explained that the war has led to an “unprecedented humanitarian and health catastrophe,” noting that approximately 5,000 amputations have been recorded, along with about 300 neurological and spinal cord injuries.
The Ministry added that around 10,000 cases require intensive and long-term rehabilitation programs, warning that the severe shortage of medical supplies, prosthetic devices, and artificial limbs exacerbates the challenges faced by the injured.
The Ministry stated that the targeting of health facilities and the closure of most specialized rehabilitation centers have deprived a large number of patients and injured individuals of necessary care and rehabilitation services, increasing their risk of serious health complications.
It also pointed out that restrictions on travel for treatment outside the Gaza Strip further hinder access for those requiring advanced rehabilitation services or specialized prosthetic technologies. The Ministry of Health called on international organizations and UN agencies to take urgent action and coordinate the entry of necessary medical supplies and equipment for rehabilitation, including prosthetics and orthotics.
It also demanded the opening of border crossings for critical cases requiring treatment at advanced rehabilitation centers outside the Gaza Strip, particularly patients needing advanced technologies and prosthetic limbs.
