- Career Fundas

Physiotherapy has wide range of uses: Kashyup Verish'
Physiotherapy is a science used to improve movement dysfunction, to promote the functions of the human body and optimal health. It involves the maintenance, assessment, restoration of the physical functions and body performance. In India, physiotherapy is now a flourishing career option. There are ample employment opportunities for physiotherapists in government and private sectors.
Garhwal Post spoke to Kashyup Verish, a Dehradun based physiotherapist about his take on this profession. Here are some excerpts:
Tell us about yourself?
I became a physiotherapist by chance. There was no physiotherapist in my family, although my uncle is a doctor who suggested that I explore this field. I was told that physiotherapy is an upcoming branch in the country with great avenues. I did my Bachelors in Physiotherapy from Doon College of Physiotherapy and my Masters from Trident College of Education and Allied Sciences. Now, it has been four years since I have been working with Dr Johri, a renowned Orthopedist. I also work with Arjita, Home for Children with Special Abilities as well as Karuna Vihar. Physiotherapy in special schools is a part of the rehabilitation team. However, I enjoy MPT Neuro.
What is MPT Neuro all about?
Here, we deal with stroke patients as well as the specially challenged. It is done through functional stimulation and bio-feedback. When a person is unable to move his own muscles, we help in passive mobilisation and special therapies.
How is physiotherapy different for the specially challenged?
With special children, interaction is difficult. Innovative methods have to be adopted to convey the message. Interactive techniques are adopted to make them do desired activities and exercises. Activity based communication is a key word in this physiotherapy. There is a little less coordination and a lot of patience is required.
What is the scope in physiotherapy?
There are numerous clinics, hospitals, health departments and private nursing homes where physiotherapists are in demand. They can also be self-employed if they start their personal practice. The physiotherapists can also opt for research work or teach. They are being employed by schools for children with special needs and by old age homes. They can also work with the rehabilitation centres and societies for spastics. Sports and genetics are also upcoming fields. Anywhere, there is disability or injurty, there is a requirement for a physiotherapist.
What professional specialisations can be opted for?
A Bachelor of Physiotherapy degree is a must! Masters in Physiotherapy can be procured in MPT Neurology, MPT Gynecology, MPT Genetics, MPT Sports and MPT, Cardiology. These days Physiotherapy in Cardiology is gaining popularity and demand due to increased heart strokes and ailments, but every other specialty is also much required. Things are evolving in the field on an everyday basis. Thus, regular improvement courses on physiotherapy should also be attended.
How different is a degree in physiotherapy from MBBS?
Physiotherapy is not as demanding a career as MBBS. We have fixed working hours and there are no emergencies. Our personal time is all ours. Even if we practice personally, we are not under constant pressure. There is certainly more mental peace. Another plus point is that we always get more interaction time with the patient. The patient is referred to us after one meeting, and after that he or she spends a long time with us.
What problems should a physiotherapist be prepared for?
Like any other medical profession, this career does not start paying too soon. Experience counts in physiotherapy. A physiotherapist has to be very responsible and give personal attention to each patient. A physiotherapist will be cursed or shouted at for the pain he might inflict, but he has to do his job nevertheless. Carelessness is not an option!
What are the qualities of a competent physiotherapist?
He has to unfailingly have a lot of patience. Being humble is another important necessity. He should be able to win the trust of the patient and be able to motivate him. A lot of strength and stamina are required. Physiotherapy also requires dedication as it alone gets results. He should be a keen learner and be able to instill confidence in the patients. Knowledge of clinical psychology to handle patients is always an added advantage.
A tip to aspiring physiotherapists?
Immerse yourself in the profession and gain deep knowledge of the subject. Study hard and gain as much information as possible. If you are looking for easy money, this is not a profession for you. Keep yourself fit, as it is a physically demanding job. Learn to keep a healthy mind and body in balance. This is a service based profession and not about miinting money. Learn to be tough and take responsibility for your patients. Develop the art of relating with your subject.