Out Patient

Massage, myofascial release, electrotherapy such as TENS (Trans-electrical neural stimulation), shock wave, ultrasound and interferential therapy, swelling reduction and exercise prescription are examples of modalities we use to treat and minimise pain. Heat, ice and combination therapy may be prescribed. Dry needling, K-Tape and strapping are adjunctive modalities used to manage our patients comprehensivel

Joint replacements, fractures, dislocations and arthritis are common conditions that require orthopaedic rehabilitation. Pain management, swelling reduction, exercise prescription(stretches, range of movement exercises, strengthening exercises, balance and advance training) are examples of physiotherapy interventions used. Dry needling, K-Tape and strapping are adjunctive modalities used to manage our patients comprehensively.

Lymphoedema is an abnormal, long term swelling of part/s of the body caused by a collection of lymphatic fluid in the tissues below the skin. Its occurs when there is a dysfunction in the lymphatic system. Any cancer- related surgery that requires the removal of lymph glands for staging purposes, radiation following surgery, obesity, family history of swollen limbs are examples of conditions that put patients at risk. Lymphoedema is a chronic condition. Treatment is aimed at reducing the swelling and education about self-management. Treatments modalities used include Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD), multi-layered lymphoedema bandaging, meticulous skin care, exercise and self-massage, compression garments application and self-management advice. With early diagnosis and correct treatment, patients can enjoy a full, productive life with little impact on lifestyle. Lauren Engelbrecht is a qualified and certified Lymphoedema Therapist and is a member of the Lymphoedema Association of South Africa (LAOSA)

This service addresses the need for neurodevelopmental supportive care and therapy for the neurologically impaired infant and child. Therapy is aimed at improving joint movement, relieving pain and spasm, encouraging good postural control and movement patterns to achieve the highest function and quality of life. Our paediatric gym is equipped with aquatherapy and specialised equipment to complement our services. Some of the conditions treated include Cerebral Palsy, Downs Syndrome, Hydrocephalus, developmental delay and movement disorders. Dipna Morar is a qualified neurodevelopmental therapist and is a member of the South African Neurodevelopmental Therapy Association (SANDTA).

Aims to assist patients with lung conditions such as pneumonia and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases). These include asthma, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis and bronchitis. It is also beneficial for patients who undergo lung surgery. The aim of therapy is to ensure that the patients lungs are clear and free from secretions with minimal symptoms of respiratory distress. Additionally, we aim to improve knowledge of lung condition and promote self-management, increase muscle strength and endurance (peripheral and respiratory), increase patient exercise tolerance, help in managing anxiety and depression, prevent recurrent hospitalisation and improve general patient quality of life. It involves the provision of manual chest physiotherapy such as percussions, vibrations and shaking on the chest wall to help loosen the secretions. This is often done after the application of a nebuliser. Breathing exercises and coughing techniques are prescribed to help expel the secretions effectively and minimise shortness of breath.

Exercise therapy is key in respiratory rehabilitation as it causes several physiological adaptations which can improve physical condition. There are three basic types of exercises to be considered. Aerobic exercise tends to improve the body's ability to use oxygen by decreasing the heart rate and blood pressure. Strengthening or resistance exercises can help build strength in the respiratory muscles. Stretching and flexibility exercises like yoga and Pilates can enhance breathing coordination. Additionally pursed lip breathing can be used to increase oxygen level in patient's body. Breathing games can be used to motivate patients to learn pursed lip breathing technique.

Vestibular rehabilitation is an exercise-based program, designed by our specialised physiotherapist, Sharmila Singh to improve balance and reduce dizziness-related problems. Typical patients are those diagnosed with dizziness, imbalance, vertigo, Meniere’s syndrome, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, neck-related dizziness and migraines, and those who have had a stroke or brain injury or who frequently fall. Common symptoms that can be helped with vestibular rehabilitation include

•  Dizziness or blurry vision with head movements
• Neck tightness, stiffness, and/or pain
•  Imbalance or the need to hold onto objects when walking
• Headaches
• Frequent falls
• Generalized “dizziness, wooziness and foggy head” feelings
• Vertigo/spinning

After a comprehensive assessment, a plan of care is developed. The goal of your treatment plan is to improve any deficits that were identified. This, in turn, will improve your ability to function in activities of everyday living, reduce your risk for falling, and ultimately improve your quality of life.