RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Behind Indonesia’s clean sweep of seven gold medals in para judo at the 2025 ASEAN Para Games in Thailand was the quiet work of physiotherapist Mega Tia Nurfaiza, who ensured athletes competed at peak condition through structured injury-prevention and recovery programs from preparation to competition.

Mega Tia Nurfaiza dedicates herself behind the scenes as the physiotherapist for the Indonesian para-judo team.

Since the ASEAN Para Games (APG) 2023 in Cambodia through APG 2025 in Thailand, the 26-year-old from Sukoharjo, Central Java, has ensured athletes are physically prepared, recover efficiently, and avoid injuries.

A graduate of Surakarta Muhammadiyah University, Mega works with the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) Indonesia, supporting para-judo and other sports. She collaborates with doctors and massage therapists to prevent injuries, strengthen muscles, and optimize performance, helping athletes compete at their best.

Mega’s decision to pursue sports physiotherapy was not made overnight. Her background as a university-level pencak silat athlete gave her firsthand experience of intense training routines, performance pressure, and injury risks.

While actively training, Mega suffered from vertigo amid a demanding schedule of studies and practice. Her physical condition eventually forced her to undergo intensive hospital treatment. On her family’s advice, she decided to retire from competitive sports.

Although stepping away from elite competition was emotionally difficult, it did not diminish her determination. After completing her studies, Mega remained involved in sports by coaching young children, where she realized that contributing to athletic success did not always require competing on the field.

“Because I have a sports background and still wanted to keep fighting, albeit from a different side, I chose to become a sports physiotherapist so I could continue supporting athletes in achieving victory,” she said on Monday, January 26, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Her experience as a former athlete provides a significant advantage. Mega understands athletes’ psychology, competitive pressure, and the importance of trust between athletes and support teams, an asset when working in the complex environment of paralympic sports.

Working as a physiotherapist in disability sports presents unique challenges. Mega Tia Nurfaiza did not receive specialized training for athletes with disabilities during university, so, she continuously learns, adapts, and innovates for each athlete’s needs.

In para-judo, shoulders, knees, and fingers are most vulnerable due to intense gripping, impacts, and weight-bearing movements. Mega combines manual therapy with preventive exercises, gradually guiding recovery to align with training and competition schedules.

Collaboration with doctors and massage therapists ensures athletes receive comprehensive care from injury prevention to recovery. For Mega, success is measured not just by medals but by athletes competing in peak condition.

Her dedication contributed to Indonesia’s para-judo team winning seven gold medals at the ASEAN Para Games. From the tatami to the treatment room, Mega Tia Nurfaiza fights through therapeutic care, supporting athletes and advancing Indonesia’s success on the international stage. ***