Physiotherapy for the prevention of articular contraction in haemophilia.

The idea of prevention and preventative care is not new. History and culture have given us many examples of the importance of physical well-being and the prvention of illness and disease. The ancient societies of China focused on the balance of Yin and Yang in promoting health; Greece and Rome valued the importance of health and physical culture; the earliest Hebrew societies documented the importance of diet and dietary restrictions as a means towards good health. Through this century health professionals have advocated the importance of preventive care as an integral element of the quality of health. Haemophilia is a life-long condition with a high potential towards disability, handicap and impairment if not adequately treated. It is therefore essential that those with haemophilia are taught the importance of physical fitness at an early age as a means of preventing articular contractures. Physiotherapy is of great importance in this field, especially in third-world countries where the supply of replacement products are scarce or non-existent.