Take a look at physical therapy in this interview with Bhawna (PT)
Physical therapy is best known for improving mobility and physical functions, promoting rehabilitation and prevention of future injuries, and reducing pain related to an acute or chronic injury. Let’s hear from an expert physical therapist about her practice.
Who did we Interview?
Bhawna is a certified cupping therapist who has been working in this field since 2019. She believes that there are many aspects of her job that she loves the most. Her career has allowed her to combine many of her interests in helping people, fitness, healthcare, and much more. She got her internship done at RML Hospital, New Delhi followed by a fellowship in Trauma Rehabilitation.
Starting with the Questionnaire
Question 1: How do you ensure the safety and hygiene of your cupping equipment, and what precautions do you take to prevent infection or injury?
When it comes to any type of treatment we provide or whenever we are dealing with a patient, it becomes our utmost responsibility to ensure their safety and hygiene. To ensure the hygiene of my cupping instruments, I generally use disposable (one-time use) cups for wet cupping. By doing so, I ensure that every time a patient visits us, he/she is exposed to a new cup set.
For dry cupping, after each session, used cups went through a process of disinfection that consisted of a series of steps like soaking, rinsing, drying & disinfecting (3% hydrogen peroxide).
Question 2: What advice do you typically give to patients after a cupping session, in terms of post-treatment care and follow-up appointments?
After a cupping session, patients are generally advised to drink lots of water, stay warm, and take proper rest. To ensure that the body heals quickly, the patient is advised to avoid caffeine, alcohol, hot showers, and any type of intense workout for a period of time.
Question 3: Are you excited about any upcoming conferences and events?
Yes, in fact, I am planning to organize a hands-on workshop on cupping or dry-needling techniques in my clinic itself. I am really looking forward to executing this plan of mine.
Question 4: As a clinic owner, what are your thoughts on using physiotherapy practice management software in India?
Being a clinic owner requires a lot of data management, which really consumes a lot of time and energy from therapists. In my view, physiotherapy practice management software can do wonders in countries like India where clinicians are already overloaded with work. The software will save the therapist’s energy and time, which he or she can then put to better use in clinical work.
Question 5: What inspired you to become a cupping therapist, and how did you get started in the field?
I find cupping to be a very interesting technique. It is very helpful in reducing pain and inflammation. Besides, it is a great way to relax body tissues, along with deep tissue massage. It is a safe, non-invasive, and inexpensive treatment.
To start with, I thoroughly studied the anatomy & physiology of the human body during my Bachelor’s in Physiotherapy. Thereafter, I opted for a certification course in Diversified Cupping Techniques to master this art. Hands-on practice with multiple patients having different issues helps me gain deep knowledge of cupping techniques.
To sum up
Considering physical therapy as one of the most rewarding careers one can choose, Bhawna earlier had her own clinical set-up in Delhi. She recently relocated to Haldwani, Uttarakhand, where she now runs her clinic. She states that it is the job she is looking forward to doing for many years to come.
