Welcome to the Docscopy session with the Ergonomist Dr. Deepankar Das with MBT (Parul Soni). Let us see what this trendsetter Physiotherapist has to say about his professional journey so far!
Ergonomics is an applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use in the work environment so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely.
As a strong proponent of ‘Work Healthy, Live Healthy’, Dr. Deepankar Das is set out on a mission to bring a lifestyle change that can bring about a painless everyday life, as well as multiple health benefits over the long run.
His passion reflects in the work he does, as he is a member of the Indian Society of Ergonomics. Dr. Deepankar Das has set up a specialty Physiotherapy and Ergonomics clinic in Gurugram, India by the name of Physio Ergo.
His ventures and work reflect what he stands for, which is a healthy life free of pain and strains across the body that slow down a person and lead to aging faster. He has conducted Ergonomics assessments and consequent training programs in over 200 organizations to improve how people treat their bodies for several hours daily.
Dr. Deepankar Das have been working diligently to introduce change through his work which has been honored by being published in daily newspapers and magazines like Hindustan, Nav Bharat Times, Dainik Bhaskar, and more. Dr. Deepankar Das has his own website for further details.
Parul Soni: Sir, please tell us something about your life and professional journey.
Dr.Deepankar: I am Dr. Deepankar Das, I am a Physiotherapist. I did my BPT graduation from the Pravara Institute of Medical Sciences in 2005 (Maharastra University of Health Sciences) and I did my MPT Postgraduation from Guru Govind Singh Indraprastha University in 2010 in Cardiopulmonary Technology. Then I started my practice because I did not aspire to get into any kind of job. I got a college placement in Phillips. I was sure that I wanted to open my own clinic. I was confident that I can successfully run my own practice. In 2009 I also started my ergonomics journey.
Parul: What are you currently doing?
Dr. Deepankar: Recently I started podcasting (Dr. Ergo Speaks) about workplace ergonomics and currently I am working with a furniture company (sponsor) to debunk myths about postures, working smart and physical habits to prolong work efficiency as well as productivity.
Parul: You mentioned that you are passionate about ergonomics, what is driving you to work in this field?
Dr. Deepankar Das: During internship my institute started a rotation for ergonomics in different banks and NGOs. I got interested in this feild and after completing my internship, I started this in SBI bank by requesting them. It was a hit session and everyone at SBI liked it. That was my first success, I got deep into Ergonomics and never looked back.
Parul: What have you contributed to society with Ergonomics?
Dr.Deepankar: I am a member of Indian Society of Ergonomics, we collectively work towards making people aware of ergonomics. I have written a book which is now Amazon best seller called, “Ergonomics for Corporates”. It is a small contribution to the health of Millennials from me. I have written several chapters in different ergonomic books. As I told earlier I regularly post educational podcasts.
Parul: What do you charge for a contract with any corporate setup? What is the minimum amount?
Dr. Deepankar: My goal is to train as many corporate setups as possible, so I started with free sessions and now I charge 1.5 lacs with the corporate. Lets see what happens in the future (laughing).
Parul: What was your turning point in your career?
Dr. Deepankar Das: I took sessions in the automobile giants like Maruti (Indian automobile manufacturer). I felt grateful initially these companies were giving me opportunities. Slowly people started seeing my work and appreciated the results. After doing many free sessions I got payments from one of the biggest company. That was a turning point of my career.
Parul: Across India there is this inferiority complex being a Physio? Do you have to follow a physician's or a surgeon's instructions or do you work on your own without referrals? Would you like to say something?
Dr. Deepankar: In India, we are registered doctors as we register ourselves with the OT PT Council of the State. So, I believe in assessing from a Physiotherapist's point of view and treating the patient on my own.
Stay tuned as we continue our conversation with Dr. Deepankar Das.