21/09/2025
I see two main schools of thought emerging in this discussion. On one side, there are professionals who believe we should not run behind a title. They argue that if our skills are strong, if we treat our patients with competence and care, they will recognize our worth on their own—title or no title. On the other side, many believe that physiotherapists deserve this recognition because of the years of rigorous education, training, and relentless hard work that we put into mastering human movement, rehabilitation, and recovery. My personal take lies somewhere in between. Yes, I strongly agree that continuously upgrading our skills, innovating our methods, and educating patients about what physiotherapy truly is should always remain our top priority. At the same time, we cannot deny the reality that in India, titles shape perception. When someone introduces themselves as a doctor, respect follows almost instantly, even before the conversation begins. That respect opens doors, creates trust, and strengthens the profession’s identity in society.
But here is where the bigger picture lies. Beyond the title, physiotherapy as a profession in India still faces deeper struggles:
Unfair pay – Many skilled physiotherapists remain underpaid compared to their contribution and years of expertise.
Lack of recognition from other medical fields – Too often, our role is undervalued or seen as secondary, despite the fact that we often help patients avoid unnecessary surgeries or lifelong medication.
No single governing body – The absence of a standardized council or regulatory authority has left our education, clinical practices, and professional identity scattered and inconsistent. The battle is big, yes. But it is not impossible. The responsibility lies with us—to unite as a community, raise our standards, educate the public, and demand the recognition we deserve. A title may open doors, but it is our collective strength and clarity of purpose that will define the future of physiotherapy in India. .community