Leaders
In the ever-evolving world of Physiotherapy, practitioners are increasingly focusing on exercise therapy and manual therapy over traditional electrotherapy methods. The reason is simple that these approaches offer more personalized and long-term solutions for patient recovery. Unlike electrotherapy, which often provides temporary symptom relief, exercise and manual techniques work by targeting the root causes of physical limitations. By promoting natural movement and strengthening muscles, these therapies foster sustainable health benefits that last.
According to Dr Ritu Khemani, a renowned Physiotherapist & founder of Recura Physio, empowering patients through active engagement and tailored treatment plans is key to achieving lasting recovery. "Movement is medicine”, says Dr Khemani, who advocates for therapeutic techniques that encourage patients to take control of their own health. Her approach focuses on strengthening the body holistically, rather than creating dependence on machines or passive treatments.
A Visionary Leader in Physiotherapy
Dr Ritu Khemani has transformed the field with her patient-centric approach and commitment to personalized care. Her journey, which began as a Senior Physiotherapist at several prestigious institutions, has culminated in the founding of Recura Physio. Today, her clinic stands as a beacon of excellence in exercise and manual therapy. With years of experience, Dr Khemani has emerged as a leader, placing a firm emphasis on empowering patients through targeted, non-invasive treatments. Her philosophy of combining science with empathy ensures that her patients not only recover but thrive, gaining the confidence to embrace their own recovery journey. By integrating these principles into daily practice, physiotherapists can ensure improved overall functionality for their patients, without dependency on machines.
Below is an excerpt of Dr Ritu Khemani’s exclusive interaction with Women Entrepreneur Review magazine.
Upholding high standards of quality in my practice has been essential, especially as i transitioned from a solo practitioner to managing over ten physiotherapists and support staff
Tell us about your professional journey in the physiotherapy space. What have been some of the most crucial junctures throughout your professional journey?
My journey as a Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist began with a rigorous education, starting with a Bachelor's degree in Physiotherapy, followed by a Master's in Physical Therapy focused on Orthopedics. Specializing in Manual Therapy allowed me to address a range of musculoskeletal conditions, including joint and spinal issues. My credentials as a Certified McKenzie Therapist and ISST SCHROTH Certified professional have further enriched my practice, enabling me to manage complex cases, especially those with structural spinal deformities.
My early experiences included an internship at Ruby Hall Clinic, which honed my clinical skills, followed by my first role at Holy Family Heart Institute. A significant juncture in my career was my seven-year tenure as a Senior Physiotherapist at Fortis Hospital in Mumbai, which solidified my expertise. The most transformative moment, however, was establishing my practice, Recura Physio, in Ghatkopar, Mumbai in 2016. This step allowed me to tailor my approach to patient care, fostering a deeper connection with my clients.
What are some of the key areas of expertise you have developed as a leader in finance, over the years?
Throughout my journey as a woman entrepreneur, I have developed several key areas of expertise as a leader. First and foremost, I take pride in maintaining ethical entrepreneurship. Upholding high standards of quality in my practice has been essential, especially as I transitioned from a solo practitioner to managing over ten physiotherapists and support staff.
I’ve learned to navigate the complexities of private medical practice in India, where most services are privately funded, making patient scepticism common. This experience has taught me the importance of building trust and sustaining a clean, transparent practice. While the growth of physical therapy is slower here compared to the West, I remain optimistic about the future. I believe that increased insurance coverage for outpatient services will enhance patient access and thereafter benefit from our care. My entrepreneurial journey has been rewarding, both personally and professionally, despite the challenges.
Introduce us to Recura Physio. What is the underlying idea behind the venture and its key areas of expertise?
Recura Physio is my third baby, lovingly conceived with my husband, an architect who played a vital role in its design. Our focus is on creating a clean, hygienic environment that prioritizes patient comfort and safety. What sets Recura Physio apart is our commitment to exercise therapy and manual therapy, as there's no electrotherapy here. I firmly believe that movement is medicine, but the type of movement should be personalized, and guided by a qualified physiotherapist. Our unique selling proposition lies in this tailored approach, ensuring that every patient receives the specific care they need to enhance their recovery and overall well-being.
In your opinion what are some of the most critical challenges you encounter in your current role? What steps do you undertake to overcome these roadblocks?
In my role at Recura Physio, I face several critical challenges, primarily due to my non-business background. With my father as an engineer and my husband as an architect, I lacked foundational training in finance and logistics. Starting a clinic involved navigating complexities I had never encountered, such as understanding operational logistics and hiring skilled staff. Initially, I struggled to articulate my needs when hiring a receptionist and physiotherapist. Over time, I learned the importance of defining roles and invested in training my staff, ensuring they received international credentials to maintain our practice’s quality.
Financial hurdles, including understanding taxes and the impact of GST on our operational costs, also posed challenges. I’ve had to adapt by exploring alternative payment methods to minimize expenses, like accepting UPI to avoid credit card surcharges. This journey has been one of continuous learning, enabling me to refine my business acumen and navigate the intricacies of running a successful clinic.
Throw light on the most significant professional milestones you have achieved throughout your professional journey. What has your success mantra been over the years?
One of the most significant milestones in my professional journey has been growing from treating a single patient to over 7,000 at my clinic. Expanding our team and maintaining a reputation built solely through word of mouth has been incredibly rewarding. From top CEOs to athletes, every patient who walks in leaves understanding the importance of movement and how much better they can feel through it.
My success mantra has always been simple, prioritize patient care and let the results speak for themselves. Each day, we celebrate the small victories, knowing they lead to bigger achievements.
How do you foresee the physiotherapy landscape evolving in India, going forward? Are you anticipating any industry trends that will become significant in the near future?
The physiotherapy landscape in India is set for significant evolution, transitioning from traditional treatments of aches and pains to a broader focus on wellness and preventive care. Today, physiotherapy encompasses fitness, injury prevention, and specialized care for antenatal and postpartum women, addressing issues like pelvic floor health.
The smartphone revolution has notably influenced our practice. With increasing screen time, we are now treating a younger demographic, including children, for repetitive stress injuries associated with desk jobs and poor posture. As the profession continues to adapt to these trends, the scope for physiotherapy will expand, making it essential in promoting overall health and well-being. This evolution indicates that in the coming years, physiotherapy will increasingly be recognized as a vital component of health care in India, catering to diverse patient needs across all age groups.
Dr Ritu Khemani, Founder, Recura Physio
Dr Ritu Khemani, Founder of Recura Physio, is a leading Consultant Physiotherapist with expertise in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Orthopedic Rehabilitation. With over two decades of clinical experience, she is certified in McKenzie Therapy, Schroth Therapy for Scoliosis Rehab, and an internationally certified Pilates Instructor. Dr Khemani is a pioneer in introducing Schroth Therapy to India
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