PUNE: Physiotherapists are not just a part of the recovery, but they really are the recovery. India’s first Gold Medalist at the Olympics, Abhinav Bindra, reflected on the crucial role of physiotherapists in the life of a sportsman. He was speaking at the inauguration of the state-of-the-art Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Department at Sancheti Hospital. Dr. K.H. Sancheti, Founder President, Sancheti Hospitals, Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director, Bajaj Auto, Dr. Parag Sancheti, Chairman, Sancheti Hospitals, Manisha Sanghvi, Executive Director, Rupal Sancheti, Director of Home Healthcare and Communications, Sancheti Hospital, Darshita Narvani, HoD Physiotherapy Department, were present on the occasion. This next-generation department brings together highly qualified physiotherapists across specialties—neuro, orthopaedic, paediatric, vestibular, cardio-respiratory, and sports rehabilitation—offering holistic, evidence-based, and personalized treatment.
Abhinav Bindra said that I had a very long career in sports of over two decades. During that tenure, I had more than 10 physiotherapists. Physiotherapists are not just a part of the recovery, but they really are the recovery. My relationship with them has been based on trust. Athletes’ lives are long and hard as we push ourselves to the limit every day. Citing the point in time where he had a tough relationship with his coach, he said that my physiotherapists were not only physiotherapists but mental therapists as well. They were the ones who helped mend the relationship with my coach by telling me the coach’s perspective during my treatment. So, this relationship takes care of our overall well-being. It is the same relationship that goes to patients and helps them overcome fears. We are living in times where physical inactivity is at an all-time high, and so many people have postural challenges and therefore, this department will help in not only treating but also in prevention.
Dr. Parag Sancheti, Chairman of Sancheti Hospitals, said that Abhinav Bindra has inspired many youths through his career, tireless work, and the Abhinav Bindra Foundation. The state-of-the-art physiotherapy centre inaugurated today at the hands of Abhinav Bindra will go a long way in helping not only patients but also sportsmen to assess their abilities and get to their peak performances. This centre will start a new journey for patients and athletes.
Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director, Bajaj Auto, said that I look at this centre with three metrics, viz individualisation, holistic experience, and vitality. This is an outstanding centre.