Direct Access to Physiotherapy in Saudi ArabiaI. IntroductionPhysiotherapy is an important aspect of health care. It is the most common intervention for pain that does not involve medications (Porter 2008). The effectiveness of this particular health intervention has been professed and also studied by different researchers (Ulusoy et al. 2011; Karki 2005). This treatment should be promoted all over the world in order to maximize the therapeutic benefits. Moreover, direct access to physiotherapy should primarily be practiced in medically advanced countries such as Saudi Arabia.This paper will provide a definition of ‘direct access` to physiotherapy. Moreover, the benefits of this service will be presented and will be correlated to the state of physiotherapy in Saudi Arabia. Finally, this author will present a conclusion to these evidences.II. PhysiotherapyPhysiotherapy is a form of treatment that is executed in forms of manual, electronic and exercise programs (Better Health Channel 2011). Manual techniques involve massages, joint manipulation, resistance trainings and stretches (Better Health Channel 2011). On the other hand, electronic or electrotherapeutic techniques involve the use of ultrasound, laser therapy and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) (Better Health Channel 2011). Finally, exercise therapies include muscle strengthening, posture retraining or cardiovascular exercises. Physiotherapists also provide information regarding the use of walking frames or wheelchairs to first-time users (Better Health Channel 2011). Otherwise, physiotherapists help disabled or injured patients cope with their disabilities.Physiotherapy is a treatment that deals with musculoskeletal, cardiothoracic and neurological disorders. Musculoskeletal conditions commonly include sprains, arthritis and back pains (Better Health Channel 2011). In contrast, cardiothoracic conditions include bronchitis, asthma and emphysema (Better Health Channel 2011). Finally, neurological conditions include diseases such as multiple sclerosis, stroke and Parkinson`s disease (Better Health Channel 2011). Physiotherapy is also important in post-surgery patients because it is believed that this kind of treatment helps relieve patients` pain and restores body functions after surgery (Oh, Kim and Lee 2002).The role of physiotherapists in the healthcare industry is undeniable. In fact, Holdsworth and Webster (2002) stated that in the 1990s, general practitioners have chosen physiotherapy as a priority among other clinical services. In the United Kingdom, physiotherapists have been awarded autonomy to practice since 1978. However, the National Health Service of the country does not enforce direct access to physiotherapy.According to Holdsworth and Webster (2002), ‘direct access` is also synonymous to self-referral. A self-referral would entail that individuals or patients could go directly to any regulated health practitioner without the need for a referral from...