Doctoral Research All About Exercise!

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Dr Fatima Kachalla Gujba’s doctoral research focused on upper limb aerobic exercise (ULAE) programmes using arm ergometers and reciprocal pulleys as well as the effects of combining these exercises with general body muscle workouts to enhance cardiovascular parameters. 

Her research secured the Nigerian-born Gujba a PhD in Physiotherapy from UKZN - an achievement testament to her years of dedication, research and commitment to improving healthcare through physiotherapy interventions. 

Growing up in a family that valued education and always encouraged her to enter the Medical field, she followed the advice and the discipline chosen was physiotherapy - a field where she could make a tangible impact on patients’ mobility and overall well-being.

 Key findings in her study revealed that ULAE significantly improved systolic blood pressure (SBP) but had minimal impact on diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and rate pressure product (RPP). Additionally, the intervention showed limited yet positive effects on mobility, functional state and quality of life (QoL) among individuals with spinal cord injuries. These findings highlight the potential of ULAE in rehabilitation, offering a safe and beneficial approach to improving upper limb mobility for patients with spinal cord injuries. 

Gujba is a lecturer at the University of Maiduguri in Nigeria, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of physiotherapists. Her aspirations extend beyond academia - she aims to continue her research endeavours, contribute extensively to scholarly publications and progress to becoming a professor. 

Outside of her professional life, Gujba enjoys cooking and sleeping - activities that provide her with relaxation and rejuvenation after her demanding academic and clinical responsibilities! Her journey has been significantly shaped by her supervisor, Professor Sonil Maharaj whose guidance and mentorship, she says, played a crucial role in her academic success. 

Maharaj said he was especially proud of Fatima as she was a diligent student. She persevered with her studies through the extremely volatile period when Nigeria suffered riots and instability while also being a committed mother and wife with a full-time job.

Words: MaryAnn Francis

Photograph: Supplied