The role of physiotherapists in prevention and management of lymphatic filariasis related disability

Background: Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a tropical disease where a worm is introduced into the lymphatic system of people by a mosquito. Damage then occurs to the lymphatic vessels due to a combination of immune host responses to the live worm, bacteria that cohabit with the worm and then death of the worm (which may be after 4–5 years). Damage to the lymphatic system can result in lymphoedema (swelling of the limbs) or hydrocele (swelling of the scrotum). Global estimates of the extent of lymphoedema and hydrocele secondary to LF are 15 and 25 million respectively and it is endemic in 83 countries. Morbidity from this neglected disease causes substantial physical and psychosocial disability in poor communities preventing people from engaging in paid employment and moving out of poverty. The social stigma related to disfigurement, odour, superstition and prejudice limits the opportunity to marry and leads to exclusion from community engagement.