Local StoriesJanuary 8, 2026

Check Out Bhavna Rajesh Devnani’s Story

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Bhavna Rajesh Devnani.

Hi Bhavna Rajesh, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Let’s Talk About My Journey

I was born and raised in India, where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy from Dr. D.Y. Patil College, Pune. From the start, I was undoubtedly one of the most ambitious and driven students you could meet. To my surprise, in my first semester, I topped my class of 100 students and was awarded the gold medal for achieving the highest grades. This recognition fueled my determination to pursue excellence even further.

Biology has always been my passion, and the human body has fascinated me for as long as I can remember. I find joy in understanding its language and appreciating its complexity. But I also believe in the importance of a balanced life—after all, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” So, I made sure to stay active outside the classroom. I was deeply involved in the student council and participated in numerous cultural and sports events. I quickly became the face of my class, representing my batch with pride and dignity. I balanced my academic pursuits with my extracurricular activities, which only made my college experience richer.

A Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy in India is a rigorous 4-year program followed by a 6-month internship. The final year is especially pivotal, as it’s when you can run for the student council presidency and when the valedictorian for the batch is chosen. My final year was a whirlwind of academic responsibilities and organizing events at both the state and national levels. I remember barely getting any sleep during that time.

Despite the challenges, I was elected President of the student council that year. The sleepless nights and hard work paid off, and I was honored with the gold trophy, gold medal, and the title of valedictorian for the batch of 2015-2020. I left college knowing that I had gained a wealth of knowledge and had given my all. But I had bigger dreams—I wanted to pursue my master’s degree abroad.

When I shared my plans with my mentor, Principal Dr. Tushar Palekar, he was initially reluctant to see me leave India, but, understanding my aspirations, he supported my decision. The challenge didn’t end there. I had no family members abroad, and no woman from my family or town had ever traveled abroad for higher education. It was a tough conversation to convince my parents, especially since I had never been away from home for long. But they saw my passion and drive, and eventually, they agreed.

I moved to Dallas, Texas, to pursue my Master’s in Kinesiology and Exercise Sciences. It was an overwhelming experience—being away from family and adjusting to a completely new life. I had made many friends, but nothing replaces the comfort of being with family. However, my involvement in the South Asian Student Association (SASA) helped me cope with the isolation. The former SASA president approached me and encouraged me to take over the presidency. Despite my hesitation, I eventually agreed, knowing it would provide valuable exposure.

During this time, I obtained certifications in Lymphedema and Kinesio Taping while preparing for the New York Physical Therapy licensure exam. I studied relentlessly, working 16-hour days and barely sleeping, but my hard work paid off when I passed the exam on my first attempt. I was ready to start my internship in New York.

New York, the city that never sleeps, instantly captured my heart. I landed an internship just two blocks from Radio City Music Hall—truly a dream come true. After the internship, I transitioned into full-time work. I’m incredibly grateful to have found such an amazing employer in Liza Tan, a woman who values integrity, culture, and faith. I have now been working with this organization for over two years and have been managing the Jackson Heights Outpatient Orthopedic Clinic during this time.

I have a special interest in sports and strength training. I treat a variety of sports-related injuries, including those from soccer, tennis, baseball, and basketball. My expertise also includes walking, running, and postural analysis, along with treating musculoskeletal issues such as arthritis, back pain, meniscal injuries, sprains, ligament tears, and postural correction. I specialize in orthopedic rehabilitation at both the recreational and professional levels and have experience in aquatic therapy and post-surgical rehabilitation (e.g., hip arthroscopy, ACL/PCL reconstruction, meniscal repair, rotator cuff repair, shoulder replacement, TKR, THR). My goal is always to help patients restore the highest possible level of function, and I take great pride in ensuring their satisfaction and positive outcomes.

With over 3 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings, including outpatient orthopedics, inpatient rehabilitation, sports medicine, geriatrics, and home health, I’ve been able to help my patients regain independence more quickly. I also have experience in treating spine health, disc disease, pelvis and hip imbalances, scoliosis correction, women’s health, pelvic floor strength, and weight management, as well as vestibular rehabilitation and prenatal/postpartum therapy.

I’m a humble manual therapist who combines evidence-based physical therapy with holistic manual techniques derived from musculoskeletal and orthopedic philosophy. I am a Certified Lymphatic Therapist (CLT) and a Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner (CKTP), with additional certifications in Manual Therapy and Mulligan Techniques. I also use advanced Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy to treat adhesions and scar tissue. As a Pilates and Aerobics/Zumba instructor, I’ve led numerous workshops and classes over the years. I also offer weight loss programs that incorporate strength training and a variety of therapeutic techniques.

In 2023, I launched a talk show and podcast titled “Let’s Talk About Health by Bhavna,” available across multiple platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Spotify. The aim is to provide a platform for healthcare professionals—therapists, surgeons, trainers, and doctors—to share their expertise and their personal journeys in the field of medicine and health. This initiative has helped create a community of healthcare providers and serves as a valuable resource for new graduates in the health and wellness field.

Some notable highlights from my podcast and speaking engagements include:

Hosting over 150 guest speakers on “Let’s Talk About Health by Bhavna” across platforms like Instagram Live, Facebook, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts. The podcast is in partnership with Clinically Pressed, a non-profit organization.
Conducting webinars in 2023 and 2024, including a series titled “Fly with Me to New York,” aimed at students in India and Australia. This was in collaboration with Dr. Ambarish Akre, Founder and CEO of PhysioEdd.
Speaking as an international guest at the 1st Virtual International Physio Conference in September 2024, discussing “The Importance of Injury Prevention and Rehab”.
Featured as a guest speaker on the Physio Social Club Podcast in Australia, where I discussed “Cross-Cultural Experiences in Physical Therapy”.
Invited to speak on the “Wellness Debunked” podcast from Canada, where I addressed the myth “No Pain, No Gain”.
Through these initiatives, I continue to learn, grow, and inspire others, while building a strong network of healthcare professionals globally.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. The journey has been full of challenges that have shaped me into who I am today. Each phase of my life has tested my resilience, adaptability, and determination, and I’ve learned that overcoming obstacles is part of the process, especially when you are chasing your dreams.

1. Balancing Academics and Leadership
During my bachelor’s program, I was driven to excel academically while also taking on leadership roles in cultural and sports activities. That wasn’t always easy, especially in my final year when I was elected President of the Student Council. I was balancing academic responsibilities, organizing large events, and managing the expectations of my peers and faculty. The pressure was intense, and I remember barely getting any sleep that year. But that experience taught me the value of time management, leadership, and how to handle stress while staying focused on my goals.

2. Convincing My Parents to Study Abroad
One of the biggest personal struggles I faced was convincing my family to support my decision to study abroad. As the first woman from my town to pursue higher education overseas, it was an enormous leap, not just for me, but for my family as well. There were a lot of concerns—about safety, about my ability to manage without a family support system, and about the financial strain. My parents had never been abroad themselves, and I had never been away from home for an extended period, so the idea of me moving to another country was a tough sell. Convincing them took time, and I had to show them that I was committed and that this opportunity was crucial for my future.

3. Facing Loneliness in a New Country
When I moved to Dallas for my Master’s program, I had no family or close friends in the US. Initially, the loneliness was overwhelming. I was living in a new country, far from everything familiar, and there were moments when I questioned whether I had made the right decision. I had to learn how to navigate life on my own, build new friendships, and find comfort in my independence. It was a period of intense personal growth, but it wasn’t without its difficulties.

4. Overcoming the Pressure of the PT License Exam
One of the most challenging moments was preparing for the Physical Therapy (PT) License exam for New York. I was studying for 16 hours a day and barely sleeping for four hours at night. It felt like the exam would determine everything, and there was immense pressure to pass on my first attempt. There were moments of doubt—would I be able to balance my studies, certifications, and work while preparing for this crucial exam? But I was determined to succeed, and after weeks of hard work, I passed on my first attempt. It felt like a massive weight had been lifted off my shoulders.

5. Cultural Adjustments and Professional Growth
Once I started working in New York, the transition from student to full-time professional was another hurdle. There were moments when I felt overwhelmed by the professional expectations, the fast-paced environment, and the responsibility of managing my own clinic. But, at the same time, I was constantly learning from my mentors and colleagues, which helped me grow both professionally and personally. Navigating cultural differences, both in the workplace and in social settings, was also a challenge. However, these experiences allowed me to develop a more global perspective and made me more adaptable to different work environments.

6. Building a Platform and Maintaining Consistency
Starting my podcast, Let’s Talk About Health by Bhavna, in 2023 was another leap of faith. Initially, there were doubts about whether the platform would resonate with people. The logistics of coordinating with guests, managing the technical aspects of the podcast, and staying consistent with content creation were challenging. But as the podcast grew and I started engaging with professionals from all over the world, I realized that this was an avenue I could use to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare community. It wasn’t easy at first, and I faced many hurdles in terms of time management and resources, but now I’m proud to see the impact it’s making, with over 150 guest speakers and a growing audience.

7. Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt
Lastly, there were times when I experienced imposter syndrome. Whether it was taking on leadership roles like president of SASA, becoming a guest speaker at international conferences, or working as the clinic manager, there were moments where I felt I didn’t belong or wasn’t qualified enough. But with time, I learned to embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth. I had to trust my journey and acknowledge that the experiences I had accumulated were valuable, and that I had earned my place in the professional world.

The Takeaway
The road has been far from smooth, but every struggle has been an opportunity for growth. I’ve learned that challenges aren’t roadblocks—they’re stepping stones that push you to become stronger, smarter, and more resilient. I wouldn’t change any of the struggles I’ve faced because they’ve helped shape the person I am today. The key has always been perseverance, the willingness to learn from every experience, and staying true to my passion and purpose in life.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Thank you for your interest in learning more about my work! I’m excited to share my journey and the work I do, what I specialize in, and what I’m most proud of.

My Work:
I’m a licensed physical therapist with a special focus on orthopedics, sports rehabilitation, and manual therapy. Currently, I manage an outpatient orthopedic clinic in Jackson Heights, New York, where I work closely with patients to help them recover from injuries, surgeries, and chronic conditions. My work spans a range of musculoskeletal issues, and I’m deeply committed to providing personalized treatment plans that restore optimal function and enhance quality of life.

In addition to my clinical work, I’ve built a diverse skill set that includes expertise in areas like aquatic therapy, lymphedema management, kinesio taping, Pilates, and post-surgical rehabilitation. I’m also passionate about educating others in the field, and I’m the host of a podcast called Let’s Talk About Health by Bhavna, where I interview leading healthcare professionals to share insights on various health topics.

My Specializations:
Orthopedics & Sports Rehabilitation: I specialize in treating sports injuries (soccer, tennis, basketball, etc.), orthopedic conditions (arthritis, meniscal tears, ligament injuries), and post-surgical rehabilitation (ACL/PCL reconstructions, rotator cuff repairs, hip replacements, etc.).

Manual Therapy: I use a combined approach of evidence-based physical therapy and holistic manual therapy techniques. This includes hands-on treatments like Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy, Mulligan techniques, and various manual mobilization techniques to improve joint function and relieve pain.

Post-Surgical Rehabilitation: I have extensive experience in helping patients recover from surgeries like ACL repairs, rotator cuff surgeries, and joint replacements. My goal is to return patients to their highest level of function with a clear, structured rehabilitation plan.

Aquatic Therapy: I also specialize in aquatic therapy, which is especially beneficial for patients with joint pain, limited mobility, or those in the early stages of post-surgical recovery.

Kinesiology & Exercise Science: I hold a Master’s in Kinesiology, which gives me a scientific understanding of movement and exercise. I use this knowledge to develop individualized strength training and rehabilitation programs for patients, helping them achieve better outcomes and prevent future injuries.

What Sets Me Apart:
What sets me apart is my ability to blend multiple therapeutic approaches to address complex musculoskeletal issues. I don’t just focus on treating the symptoms, but I also work to understand the root cause of the problem. I take a holistic approach, combining traditional physical therapy techniques with manual therapies, exercise science, and specialized treatments like aquatic therapy and lymphedema management to create a comprehensive care plan tailored to each patient’s needs.

I also bring a global perspective to my work. Having worked in both India and the United States, I’ve had the privilege of seeing different healthcare systems, treating patients from diverse backgrounds, and learning from a variety of professional experiences. This has helped me adapt my practice to different cultural contexts and refine my approach to patient care.

What I’m Most Proud Of:
I’m most proud of the impact I’ve had on my patients’ lives. Whether it’s helping someone return to their favorite sport after an injury, guiding a patient through post-surgical rehabilitation, or working with older adults to improve mobility and quality of life, there’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing the positive changes in my patients. The trust they place in me and the progress they make is the ultimate reward.

Another accomplishment I’m proud of is the success of my podcast, Let’s Talk About Health by Bhavna. It’s been a platform for sharing knowledge and connecting healthcare professionals from all over the world. To date, I’ve had over 150 guest speakers, including renowned physiotherapists, surgeons, and trainers, who’ve shared their insights on health and wellness. The feedback has been overwhelming, and I’m proud to be creating a space where professionals can learn from each other and inspire the next generation of healthcare workers.

I’m also proud of my work in building a community of healthcare professionals who support and educate each other. Through webinars, guest speaking, and my podcast, I’ve been able to give back to the profession and contribute to the growth of others in the field.

What Makes Me Unique:
Holistic & Comprehensive Approach: My ability to combine evidence-based physical therapy with manual therapy, kinesiology, and lifestyle approaches sets me apart from others. I don’t just treat the injury—I look at the bigger picture of the patient’s health, movement patterns, and overall wellness.

Global Perspective & Multidisciplinary Knowledge: My background in both India and the U.S. gives me a unique perspective on healthcare, allowing me to connect with patients from different cultural backgrounds and apply a wide range of therapeutic techniques.

Commitment to Education & Mentorship: As a mentor and educator, I am passionate about helping other professionals grow. Whether it’s through my podcast, speaking engagements, or webinars, I strive to build a community where knowledge is shared, and professionals are empowered to excel in their careers.

Patient-Centered Care: I truly believe in the power of a patient-centered approach. Each patient is unique, and I take the time to understand their specific needs, goals, and challenges. This personalized care is at the heart of my practice.

Work-Life Balance & Empathy: While I have a strong professional commitment, I also emphasize the importance of maintaining a work-life balance for both myself and my patients. I believe that empathy, understanding, and a holistic view of health are critical to creating successful outcomes.

Looking Forward:
I’m constantly learning and evolving in my practice. Whether it’s through continuing education, attending conferences, or collaborating with colleagues, I’m always looking for ways to refine my skills and stay on top of the latest research and treatment techniques. My goal is to keep making a positive impact on my patients, contribute to the healthcare community, and continue to inspire others in the field.

What motivates me every day is the opportunity to help people live better, more active lives. Whether it’s a child returning to soccer, a senior regaining the ability to walk without pain, or an athlete reaching new performance goals, knowing that I played a role in their success is incredibly fulfilling.

Ultimately, what sets me apart is my commitment to providing compassionate, comprehensive, and effective care—empowering my patients to take control of their health and achieve their personal goals, all while educating and mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Absolutely! No journey is ever accomplished alone, and I owe much of my success to a number of mentors, supporters, cheerleaders, and colleagues who have played pivotal roles at various points in my career. The people who have guided, encouraged, and believed in me have been instrumental in shaping who I am today and in helping me achieve the milestones I have in my career and business.

1. My Family:
First and foremost, my family deserves a lot of credit. My parents, who were initially hesitant about me studying abroad and taking such a big leap, ultimately became my biggest supporters. Their belief in my passion and potential pushed me to go beyond my comfort zone. They’ve been my emotional anchors, cheering me on through the toughest moments, and reminding me of my strength and resilience when things got tough. Without their encouragement, I may not have had the confidence to make many of the life-changing decisions that led me to where I am today.

2. Dr. Tushar Palekar (My College Mentor):
Dr. Tushar Palekar, the principal of Dr. D.Y. Patil College, Pune, has been one of the most influential mentors in my life. He not only guided me academically but also provided emotional and professional support when I expressed my desire to study abroad. While he was initially concerned about my leaving, he respected my decision and offered invaluable advice on how to manage the transition. His mentorship taught me the importance of hard work, discipline, and how to balance academic excellence with leadership. His belief in my abilities gave me the confidence to push myself to new heights.

3. Dr. Ray Galloway (Program Director, Masters in Kinesiology):
During my Master’s in Kinesiology at the University of Texas, Dr. Ray Galloway played a crucial role in my education. His mentorship was a game-changer. He provided me with not just technical knowledge, but also the practical insights I needed to thrive in the field of kinesiology. Dr. Galloway’s support during my time in Dallas helped me see the bigger picture in rehabilitation and movement science. He created an environment where students were encouraged to think critically and creatively, which greatly impacted my approach to patient care and clinical problem-solving.

4. Liza Tan (Employer and Role Model):
Liza Tan, the owner of the outpatient orthopedic clinic in Jackson Heights, New York, has been an incredible mentor and advocate for me professionally. I’ve been fortunate to work under her leadership for the past two years. She is a woman of integrity, who not only values professionalism but also deeply cares about the well-being of her employees and patients. Her guidance and trust in my abilities allowed me to manage the clinic confidently, and her unwavering support has been invaluable as I navigated the complexities of running a clinic in a fast-paced environment like New York. Liza’s belief in fostering a supportive and collaborative work culture has influenced how I lead and mentor others today.

5. My Patients:
I truly believe that I learn as much from my patients as they do from me. Each person who walks through the clinic doors brings their own set of challenges, hopes, and goals. The trust my patients have placed in me has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career. Their progress, their feedback, and the relationships I’ve built with them have been the driving force behind my passion for this profession. Many of them have been my biggest cheerleaders, sharing their success stories and recommending me to others, which has helped my practice grow. The sense of accomplishment when a patient reaches their goals—whether it’s returning to sports, regaining mobility, or recovering from surgery—fills me with pride. My patients inspire me every day to push the boundaries of what I can do for them.

6. My Podcast Team and Collaborators:
Starting my podcast, Let’s Talk About Health by Bhavna, was a dream, and I couldn’t have brought it to life without the support of a fantastic team of collaborators and guests. Every guest speaker who has shared their time and expertise has played a pivotal role in the success of the show. Their insights have not only helped to inform and inspire my audience, but they’ve also contributed to creating a global community of healthcare professionals. I’m deeply grateful for their willingness to share their knowledge and experience, and for their trust in the platform. I’ve been fortunate to have over 150 guest speakers, including prominent physiotherapists, surgeons, and trainers, and each of them has contributed something unique that has added value to the podcast.

I also want to acknowledge the support from Clinically Pressed, the American non-profit podcast chain that partnered with me to expand the reach of my show. Their partnership helped elevate the visibility of Let’s Talk About Health, and their guidance has been instrumental in making the podcast a success.

7. Colleagues and Professional Network:
Over the years, I’ve built a network of professional colleagues who have been my sounding board, my mentors, and my support system. These include physiotherapists, healthcare professionals, and mentors in both the U.S. and India who have guided me through challenging clinical cases, shared resources, and opened doors to speaking opportunities and conferences. My involvement with international organizations and attending conferences has also expanded my professional network, providing me with new perspectives on physical therapy practices around the world.

8. My Teammates:
In every role I’ve taken on—whether it was in the student council, during my clinical internships, or as a podcast host—my teammates have played a significant role in shaping my success. Their collaboration, creativity, and dedication have always inspired me to do my best work. Together, we’ve brainstormed ideas, problem-solved, and celebrated each other’s successes. Whether it was organizing events during my student council days or managing clinic operations in New York, teamwork has always been a cornerstone of my success.

9. The Support of the Healthcare Community:
Lastly, I cannot overlook the broader healthcare community that has been so supportive of my journey. The professionals who have offered me advice, the clients who have trusted me with their care, and the fellow podcasters and speakers who’ve collaborated with me have all helped me grow. Every conversation and interaction has been an opportunity to learn, share, and expand my understanding of healthcare.

I have been incredibly fortunate to have a solid network of mentors, supporters, colleagues, and patients who have played essential roles in my journey. From my family’s unwavering support to the professional guidance of my mentors, and the trust my patients have placed in me, each person has contributed to my growth and success. The collaborative nature of the healthcare field and the deep connections I’ve built along the way have been key to my progress—not only in my clinical work but also in building my podcast platform and growing my business. They say it takes a village, and in my case, it truly does. I am grateful to all of them for helping me become the therapist, mentor, and leader I am today.

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