Says Dr Shweta Manwadkar, Principal, K.J Somaiya College of Physiotherapy.
Dr. Manwadkar has always been with a purpose – making a positive difference in quality of life of its students and the community. K.J Somaiya is known as much for its science, technology, engineering, management, social sciences and commerce programs, as for its programs for academic studies in various faiths and cultures of India.
Dr Shweta Manwadkar in interaction with Health Technology.in
Please can you tell us about the gaining importance of physiotherapy for treating problems of the back, spine?
There are several causes of back pain. Physiotherapists are competent to diagnose the reason for back pain and address each impairment tailor-made to the needs of the individual patient, to ensure early return to work and reduce absenteeism from employment, thus increasing productivity. Electrical modalities may be used for pain relief. Also there are many mobilization techniques much in use these days and are highly effective. A strong emphasis is on daily exercises, postural correction and ergonomic advice, to prevent recurrence.
Please can you tell us more on the need for and availability of quality affordable physiotherapy treatments in India?
Physiotherapy clinics and OPD’s are generally private and costly. In Municipal and Government hospitals patients are seen on charitable basis or without fees, but the numbers of patients are so many that individualised attention with adequate time being spent may not be possible. In rural India, many villages do not have physiotherapy clinics or facilities and patients usually have to visit Physiotherapy Centres in town hospitals when required.
What is the role of physiotherapy in holistic medical treatments?
Medical treatment is a must in many health situations, but sequlae of the health conditions viz pain, muscle weakness, stiffness, reduced stamina can only be tackled by physiotherapy. It has a role to play in prevention of health problems as well as in improving the function of a patient following disorder / disease. Educating the patient regarding do’s and dont’s, giving personalised information regarding orthosis, prosthesis, energy conservation etc. helps to improve the quality of life in all patients.
Is there a need for increased medical education in physiotherapy?
Medical subjects required for physiotherapy education is already available in the physiotherapy syllabus as recommended by MUHS. However, there is a need for increased centres imparting physiotherapy education or increased number of seats in already established education centres to increase the number of physiotherapists in the state and country. This is required to improve the physiotherapist to patient ratio which will help in making physiotherapy services easier to access. There is also a need to increase physiotherapy awareness in the masses as well as in the doctors which will lead to quality physiotherapy treatment being rendered to the patients.
What is unique about the facility and what does the facility consist of, what kinds of treatment are done here?
The Physiotherapy College and clinical department is devoted only/especially to physiotherapy care. The ambience of the centre, with its old world charm, open spaces and adequate treatment areas for all types of disorders (Musculoskeletal, Neuro rehabilitation, etc.) adds to the comfort of the patient.
The facility consists of distinct college and clinical areas. The college caters to UG, PG & PHd education in physiotherapy with its classrooms, labs, library and common rooms for girls and boys.
The clinical / treatment area consists of various OPD’s which cater to patients with Musculoskeletal, Neurological, Cardio respiratory, and Women’s health conditions. Fitness, Geriatric, Hand, Rheumatology Sports, OPD’s are specialised treatment areas being conducted. As per the patient requirement; electrical, exercise modalities along with dry needling, taping, and special treatment techniques are used to improve function.
