Physiotherapy

The Physiotherapists are first line medical practitioners, registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). You do not need a doctor’s referral to see a physiotherapist.

 

Physiotherapy is a scientific, holistic approach to assessment and treatment of Physical dysfunction or injury by the use of knowledge and skills unique to physiotherapists. It aims to facilitate and restore maximum movement and functional ability throughout life, as well as prevent disability, resulting from certain conditions or traumas.

 

Physiotherapists have a thorough understanding of human anatomy, biomechanics and physiology. Their training is not limited to one specific field of physiotherapy. They are competent in Orthopaedics, Neurology, Pulmonology, Paediatrics, Geriatrics and cardio-vascular pathologies.

 

OMT Physiotherapist – is a Hands-on Physiotherapist with special interest in treating neuro-musculoskeketal disorders, who has successfully completed The OMT (Orthopaedic Manipulative Therapy) post-graduate course.

 

The OMT physiotherapist can perform Spinal and Peripheral joints mobilisations/manipulations, similar to the ones of the chiropractors.

 

NDT Physiotherapist – is a Physiotherapist with a special interest in Neurological Rehabilitation and has successfully completed a post-graduate NDT course. The NDT Physiotherapist use the Bobath method in treating Stroke patients, Head injuries and Cerebral Palsy. It promotes motor learning for efficient motor control, achieved trough specific handling. The basics of this treatment approach are the importance of correct body alignment and trunk control.

 

Schroth Physiotherapist- is a Physiotherapist with special interest in Scoliosis and Kyphosis and has successfully completed a post-graduate course in the Shroth principles of treating scoliosis. The method consists of specific exercises addressing the 3-Dimentional spinal and trunk deformities appearing in scoliosis. There are Shroth- designated schools in Germany, Spain, USA.

What to expect from a Physiotherapy treatment.

During your first visit your physiotherapist will take your history and perform a comprehensive assessment. He/she will put a diagnosis and discuss the treatment program with you. This will be followed by clinically reasoned treatment.

 

The physiotherapy treatments might include:

• Manual therapy (manipulations/mobilisations; Soft tissue and Trigger points therapy),
• Dry Needling in the Trigger Points,
• Stretches,
• Electrotherapy
• Exercises (with or without specialised equipment)

Before discharge, you will be given a home program of exercises and advice on how to prevent re-occurrence of your complaints.

 

In some conditions you might be advised to come back on a maintenance program.

 

In some cases you might be referred to a specialist or for an X-ray to ensure that you are offered the best possible treatment.