Volunteering in Nepal - Occupational Therapy in Nepal

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Physiotherapy/Occupational Therapy

There is a real shortage of skilled physiotherapists and occupational therapists in Nepal. Are you currently training in physiotherapy or occupational therapy? And do you have at least one year of experience? Are you recently qualified or mid-career? In all cases, your help in Nepal can provide valuable treatment. You can help babies, children, and adults with a wide range of physical problems.

You can experience a physiotherapy or occupational therapy placement in Nepal. In return it will give you a greater understanding of how professionals in the field operate in developing countries. And it’s an opportunity to utilize your skills for the benefit of others.

Projects that we offer in Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy are:

• The Disabled Rehabilitation Center in Kathmandu
• Center for children with intellectual and physical disabilities in Kathmandu
• Disabled Home in Kathmandu (children and adults)
• School for children with physical disabilities in Kathmandu
• Rehabilitation hospitals in Kathmandu
• Special Rehabilitation Centers in Kathmandu or Banepa (about one hour’s drive from Kathmandu).
• Elderly homes in Pokhara
• Autism Center in Pokhara

Your role as a Physiotherapist or Occupational Therapist

It is important for volunteers to have a positive attitude and a real willingness to help. You will help children and adults with a wide range of physical and mental disabilities. In many disability and rehab centers you will work with a schedule, which allows each child to spend quality time in the physical therapy room. Each child or adult has different needs. Some are learning to walk, some suffer from muscular problems, while others need to have their joints massaged regularly. With your help they can receive treatment and therapy more often.

The hospital’s facilities are often basic. The treatment standards will probably be different from what you’re used to. You should be prepared to see some shocking cases, and try not to get emotionally involved with the patients.

Work independent or with other Physical Therapists

In many places you will work alongside one of the local physical therapists. You will assist children and adults with a variety of physical and mental ailments. Depending on your level of knowledge and experience you may be given your own patients to work with.

When you work at the hospitals, your role will vary depending on your education and experience. First, you will begin by shadowing the local Nepali staff. When you show enthusiasm and develop a good relationship with the staff, you will be rewarded with more responsibilities.