Name and Title(s):
Priya Raval
Registered Physical Therapist, Pelvic Physiotherapist
Where do you work?
Northern Health (Prince George, BC)
University Hospital of Northern British Columbia (UHNBC) | Northern Health
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is that I get to help people, improve their lives by assisting them to reduce their pain or return to their activities; I use the skills I have gained while training as a physiotherapist. I can help people to improve their strength and thus enable them to have another chance at living the life they had dreamed of living. I am truly privileged to have the skills, to make a small but significant difference in someone’s life.
Why does physiotherapy matter?
Physiotherapy can increase physical activity levels, reduce the risks of falls and fractures, and improve overall quality of life.
The physiotherapists are the ones who add quality to your life right from your hospital stay to discharge into the community. Physiotherapist plays a crucial role in achieving goals, be it going back to work, getting back to recreational activities or specific sports needs.
What is a common misconception with your work?
The common conception about my work is that pelvic physiotherapy is just for women. Although pregnancy and postpartum concerns are commonly addressed in pelvic therapy, it is often thought that these are the only reasons people seek physiotherapy, but really it can be for anyone!
People of any gender can benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy.
What drew you to physical therapy?
My Family has a broad history as healthcare professionals. I remembered sitting around the dinner table as a child listening to them talk about patients they have seen, diseases they have encountered and how they have assisted their patients in their recovery. Since childhood, it has always been my dream to be like my parents, as I believe in movement and independence, physical therapy was my first choice and I made my dream come true.
What is unique about what you do?
The one thing that is unique about me is I work in two different settings; continuum of care from Inpatient Rehab to Outpatient Pelvic Health Clinic. I really enjoy learning new things and I am constantly seeking out new learning opportunities. I also believe my ability to think creatively sets me apart from others.
What is one thing we might be surprised to learn about you?
I have earned my bachelor’s degree in yoga therapy, I do yoga to keep myself fit. When I am not working you will find me playing cricket or badminton, I also enjoy swimming with my family.