The Essential Role of Physiotherapy in Pain Management: Expert Advice from Dr. Suganath

In a world where chronic pain has become a silent epidemic, physiotherapy emerges as a beacon of hope for millions. According to the World Health Organization, approximately one in five people globally grapples with chronic pain. In India, the numbers are even more startling—a 2019 study revealed that about 25% of adults experience chronic pain, leading to significant personal and economic challenges.

To shed light on how physiotherapy can be a game-changer in managing chronic pain, we sat down with Dr. Suganath, a leading physiotherapist at Tata MD. His insights offer a compelling look into the world of physiotherapy, from tackling chronic pain to aiding post-surgical recovery and crafting personalized care plans.

From Sprains to Strains: Common Injuries Decoded

In his practice, Dr. Suganath frequently encounters ankle sprains. “Think of them like a traffic light system,” he says. “Grade 1 and 2 sprains are like yellow lights – we can usually manage them conservatively. But Grade 3 sprains? That’s a red light, often requiring surgical repair.”

Other common culprits include frictional damage and muscular strains. The key, according to Dr. Suganath, lies in tailoring the therapeutic interventions to the injury’s severity.

Getting Athletes Back in the Game

For sports enthusiasts, Dr. Suganath’s approach is music to the ears. “When an athlete comes to us with an injury, we don’t just treat the problem – we aim to enhance their overall performance,” he explains. This involves:

• Assessing individual goals (both short-term and long-term)
• Treating the specific injury
• Implementing strength and conditioning exercises

The result? Athletes return to their sport not just recovered, but often performing better than before.

Golden Years, Golden Care

Physiotherapy isn’t just for the young and active. For seniors, it’s a vital tool in maintaining quality of life. Dr. Suganath highlights how physiotherapy addresses the unique challenges of aging:

• Combating decreased bone density and muscle strength
• Improving pain perception capacity
• Enhancing overall quality of life and independence
• Addressing comorbidities common in older adults

“Our goal is to keep seniors active, independent, and enjoying life to the fullest,” Dr. Suganath affirms.

The Road to Recovery: Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

After surgery, the real work begins. Dr. Suganath stresses the crucial role of physiotherapy in post-surgical rehabilitation. Through a combination of isometric exercises and low-impact activities, physiotherapists:

• Improve circulation
• Reduce tension
• Mobilize the surgical site

“It’s about getting patients back to their normal lives as quickly and effectively as possible,” Dr. Suganath explains.

Flexibility: The Key to Mobility

When it comes to improving mobility and flexibility, physiotherapy is at the forefront. Dr. Suganath and his team analyse the biomechanics of movement, identifying restrictions whether they stem from soft tissue, bone, or other structures.

“By employing various therapeutic techniques, we can improve joint mobility and overall flexibility,” Dr. Suganath says. “And it’s all tailored to the patient’s specific needs – whether they’re looking to excel in athletics or simply improve their day-to-day activities.”

Arthritis: More Than Just Joint Pain

For those battling arthritis, physiotherapy offers a ray of hope. Dr. Suganath’s approach involves:

• A detailed assessment of pain history and joint function
• Pain management techniques
• Improving joint mobility through manual therapy and exercise
• Utilizing orthotics when necessary

“Our aim is not just to manage arthritis,” Dr. Suganath states, “but to enhance quality of life and slow down the condition’s progression.”

Personalized Care: The Tata MD Approach



At Tata MD, one size doesn’t fit all. Dr. Suganath emphasizes the importance of personalized physiotherapy plans. “We categorize patients based on their specific needs – athletes, seniors, individuals with particular medical conditions – and tailor our approach accordingly,” he explains.

This personalized touch involves:

• Setting realistic goals
• Designing customized exercise plans
• Maximizing performance and recovery for everyone

The Power of Physiotherapy

As our enlightening conversation with Dr. Suganath ends, one thing is clear: physiotherapy is a dynamic and essential component of healthcare. From managing chronic pain to aiding in post-surgical recovery and maintaining overall mobility and health, its benefits are far-reaching.

Dr. Suganath’s insights underscore the importance of a personalized approach in physiotherapy. By addressing individual needs, physiotherapy offers comprehensive solutions to help people lead healthier, more active lives.

At Tata MD, the commitment to providing top-notch, tailored physiotherapy services is evident. Whether you’re an athlete looking to boost performance, a senior aiming to maintain independence, or someone battling chronic pain, Tata MD’s physiotherapy team is ready to help you on your journey to a pain-free, active lifestyle.

Ready to take the first step towards better health and mobility? Contact Tata MD today at www.tatamd.com or call 080-691567777. Your path to wellness begins with a single step – let Tata MD guide you on that journey.