Pune: ‘World Physiotherapy Day’ is celebrated all over the world to raise awareness about the important contribution of physical therapists and the treatments they provide to keep people fit and healthy. On this occasion, Geriatric Wellness Foundation” joined hands with Lokmanya Hospital to felicitate the best physiotherapists across the state of Maharastra for their contribution to the medical field.

The State Physio Award was given by Shyam Sahani, a gold medalist in Powerlifting Olympics. On this occasion, Internationally acclaimed Sports Medicine Physiotherapist Dr. Ajit Mapari and Renowned speaker Dr. Jaywant Anil were present as the chief guest. Apart from this, dignitaries like ACP Sandeep Narayan Deshmane, Anjali Ambedkar,Dr. Ujjwal Yeole, Dr.Shilpa Khandare, and Dr. Mukesh Vyas were present at the program.

At this time,physiotherapist for the Indian women’s cricket team, Dr. Pooja Kulkarni and five physiotherapists who are doing remarkable work at the Maharashtra state level were honored. The principals who nurtured physiotherapy students were also felicitated at the event. The program was introduced by Dr Khushbu Das and a vote of thanks was given by Dr Amol Salve.

Dr. Narendra Vaidya, Managing Director of Lokmanya Hospital, Pune, and pioneer of robotic joint replacement surgery said, “When the surgeon performs an operation, the patient is under anaesthesia and does not feel pain, but during post operative period, the physiotherapist takes care of the patient , makes patient mobile and held hands till complete recovery. It is a challenging task to get the patient back to the normal movement after the surgery. Physiotherapy is very essential for patients with cardiac, neuro, and sports injuries, as well as for resuming activities in daily life after surgery.”

Dr. Shrikrishna Joshi, Director of Geriatric wellness Foundation said, “With the advanced medical treatment, the life expectancy of a person has increased, but to live life with quality is equally important . No one likes to live a bed-bound life. In such cases, the role of the physiotherapist is important during old age. According to global statistics, in 2050, the elderly population will account for 20% of the total population and the average life expectancy will be around 85 years. In such cases, physiotherapists can provide invaluable guidance and help at every stage of old age. Considering the problem of loneliness in old age in Western countries, now a days many advanced technologies like robots are available for activities, some video games help to improve the patient’s mental state as well as body movements. Physical exercise and rehabilitation play a pivotal role when one becomes older.”

Mohan Nair, CEO of Lokmanya Hospital, said, “There are numerous business opportunities available in the field of physiotherapy. As this branch of sports medicine is developing in India, many are now taking it up as a career option. International Sports Medicine Physiotherapist Dr. Ajit Mapari explained the many aspects of fitness, while Dr. Jaywant Anil expressed his valuable thoughts on quality and medico- legal aspects.”