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What we treat!

We understand that each client is unique in how they present

with their condition and thus how they will respond to

treatment. We are able to identify and adapt our treatment

techniques to suit the needs of the individual.

Conditions we treat:

Headaches and sinusitis
Neck and back pain
Sports injuries
Musculoskeletal injuries e.g. joints and muscles injuries
Chest conditions
Orthopaedic (pre and post)
Surgical pre and post
Neurological conditions
Peadiatrics (congenital complications, chest infections, neurology and orthopaedics)

How we treat!

Joint mobilization techniques with Maitland, Mulligan and Mckenzie

Mobilization of joints involves passive movements applied to a joint. It is applied

in an oscillatory manner or as a sustained stretch to relieve inflammation and/or

stiffness in joints. Manipulation on the other hand, is a term that embraces all

kinds of passive movements, or can be viewed more specifically as a small

amplitude manipulative thrust technique performed with speed.

Mobilization and manipulation are used by a skilful physiotherapist who is able

to asses which joint needs mobilization, the amplitude and type of mobilization.

The Physiotherapy Studio has highly qualified physiotherapist who trained

under the Orthopaedic Manipulation Therapy Course (OMT) and have had

successful results when treating using these techniques on joints.

Myofascial Release Therapy and Myofascial Trigger point Therapy

Myofascia is a type of connective tissue that surrounds muscles and groups of

muscles. Fascia also surrounds blood vessels, nerves and organs; it binds some

structures together, while permitting others to slide smoothly over each other.

Many patients seek myofascial treatment after losing flexibility or function

following an injury or if experiencing on-going back, shoulder, hip, or virtually

pain in any area containing soft tissue. In addition, pain can also be generated

from damaged myofascial tissue itself, sometimes at a 'trigger point' where a

contraction of muscle fibres has occurred. In either case, the restriction or

contraction inhibits blood flow to the affected area. Stress, tension and postural

problems can cause the fascia to loose flexibility. Myofascial Therapy (also known

as myofascial release therapy or myofascial trigger point therapy) is a type of

safe, low load stretch that releases tightness and pain throughout the body

caused by myofascial pain syndrome, which describes chronic muscle pain that is

worse in certain areas known as trigger points.

Specific releases to different parts of the body vary and include application of

pressure or sustained low load stretch to the affected area. This hands-on

treatment can last at least 30-45 minutes, conducted in a relaxing and private

room and can be continued on consecutive days. This stimulates the self-repair

process, circulation to facilitate delivery of nutrients and removal of waste

products. This treatment is complimented by other physiotherapy techniques

namely joint mobilization and heat therapy.

Neural mobilization

Neural mobilization is a treatment modality used in relation to pathologies of the

nervous system. When nerves are injured, they lose dynamic flexibility and

function. Injuries to nerves can be caused by impingements from joints, discs of

the spine and soft tissue restrictions. Many patients whose symptoms don’t

respond to other physiotherapy techniques and present with a chronic history of

referred symptoms like pain, numbness, or tingling into the arms or legs may

respond to Neural Mobilization. Every patient that presents with referred

symptoms or pain that has been unresponsive to localized treatment receives a

complete neural tension evaluation. Neural tension testing is a way for us to

determine the extent of nerve involvement. By mobilizing a nerve, we can

determine, in combination with Maitland joint mobilization manual traction and

sensitizing manoeuvres, whether your pain is originating from the spine or the

periphery. We can then perform Neural Mobilization techniques utilizing

controlled neural tension manoeuvres to mobilize the nerve up and down.

This mobilization is done in positions that allow the nerve to slide and glide from

the structure causing impingement. This technique may be complimented by

other physiotherapy modalities like strapping to offload the area that is pinching

the nerve.

Strapping with Mc Connel and Kinesio

McConnell Taping Technique

McConnell Taping is a strapping or bracing technique using a super-rigid, cotton

mesh highly adhesive tape (LuekoTape®). Most commonly used for

pattelofemoral syndrome, shoulder subluxation, lumbar, ankle instability,foot,

and hip impingement. It is recommended to be left on for no more than 18 hours

due to in-adverse skin reaction. It better left on for a shorter period of time due to

its constricting and suffocating feel. It is meant to affect the bio mechanics and

facilitates neuromuscular re-education of the affected condition. It works very

well on sprained ankles and can be used as a preventative technique during

sports activity.

Kinesio Taping is a therapeutic taping technique, it not only offers support that is

required, but assists in the rehabilitation of the affected area as well. This

technique uses a highly specific designed tape that works with the body allowing

full range of motion (ROM). This technique does not adversely affect the bio

mechanics of the patient. The latex free Kinesio Tape makes it hypoallergenic and

safe to use from the paediatric to geriatric populations. There’s no compression to

the skin, it is "light to the feel" allowing comfortable wear over a 3 to 5 day

period. The water resistant fabric is able to whisk away moisture and gives you

the ability to bathe as normal. Kinesio Taping works with the lymphatic system

to increase circulation of blood and lymph in order to rehabilitate and relieve

pain. Used for virtually all clinical conditions. Most clients with postural

problems benefit from this technique. Our physiotherapist have attended

numerous courses on the application of this tape, this has helped most of their

clients.

Sports rehabilitation

Injuries can occur in all sports, whether it is at a recreational, competitive, or elite

level. Improper training, muscle weaknesses and imbalances, and structural

abnormalities are common causes of injuries in sport. Poor management of these

injuries can lead to chronic and recurrent problems in the future. As such, proper

training and guidance in sports is essential to prevent injuries from occurring.

A variety of sport related injuries can be treated at our clinic:

Achilles tendinopathy
Shin splints
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Runner’s, Jumper’s knee
ACL tears, meniscal injuries
Groin strain
Sports hernia
Lumbar strain
Rotator cuff injury
Tennis, Golfer’s elbow

At the Physiotherapy Studio, our physiotherapist can help you identify your

risks for injury and develop a proper training and exercise program to prevent

such injuries from occurring. If you have already sustained an injury or are

currently suffering from one, our physiotherapist can help you optimize your

recovery and get you back to pre-injury state by using appropriate exercise

prescriptions and treatments.

Neurology Rehabilition

Neurological conditions seen in the rooms vary, they include:

Head injury
Spinal cord injury
Motor neurone disease
Stroke
Cerebral palsy
Parkinson's disease
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

We have a rehabilitation studio with the adequate equipment for neurological

conditions seen and the physiotherapist can provide house calls for the clients

who are not able to reach our rooms due to their condition.

Pilates and Back rehabilitation

The Pilates method of body conditioning is a unique system of stretching and

strengthening exercises developed over 90 years ago by Joseph H. Pilates. It

strengthens and tones muscles, improves posture, provides flexibility and

balance and creates a more streamlined shape.

Pilates works on body by connecting the mind to the body. In each of our mat

classes we focus on building strength and control of the deep core muscles,

improving posture and alignment, increase body awareness and control, and

improve co-ordination and balance. In all the movements the 10 Principles of

Pilates are emphasized:

Awareness
Breath
Balance
Concentration
Centre/Core
Control
Efficiency
Flow
Precision
Harmony

Pilates is a low impact and fun way of getting and staying fit. It strengthens and

lengthens the stabilising and mobilising muscles of the body. Every joint

movement needs stability as it moves out of its base of support. The skeletal

structure of our bodies helps support our limbs with daily activities like walking

and getting up from sitting to standing. Our centre/core muscles found around

the pelvis and spine are key stabilisers to movement as they form a bridge

between the upper body and lower body. These muscles loose endurance and

flexibility when placed in unaccustomed positions like sitting in front of a

computer all day. These unaccustomed positions cause neck and back ache. Even

elite runners and sports man who present with overuse injuries benefit from

Pilates as it strengthens the stabilising muscles and off loads the mobilisers while

lengthening them.

The combination of Pilates and Physiotherapy is MAGIC especially when the

Physiotherapist has a sound knowledge of anatomy and physiology of the

human body. Our Physiotherapist have that knowledge at a Mastery level.

In order to add variety and take the Pilates exercises to a different level we

incorporate the use of swiss balls, therabands, mini-balls, foam rollers and magic

circles in our classes. Modifications are offered so that all levels will benefit from

the classes. All students are encouraged to listen to their bodies to see what

modification is appropriate. The quality of movement is valued over the quantity

of repetitions.

Pilates great for pre & post-natal moms, pensioners, home executives, executives,

patients requiring rehabilitation and basically anyone who is wanting to increase

core strength, improve posture and muscle tone.

Electrotherapy modalities

Electrotherapeutic modalities are commonly used in the treatment of many

patients experiencing back, neck and other musculoskeletal problems. We

frequently use electrotherapy and combine it with physiotherapy modalities

namely joint mobilisation and dry needling.

Ultrasound Therapy

Ultrasound helps in acute injuries for example muscle contusions. Sound is

mechanical vibration. The human ear responds to these vibrations in the range

20Hz to 20kHz. Sound above 20kHz is called ultrasound. Therapeutic ultrasound

is sound in the range 500 kHz to 5 MHz. We use 1MHz and 3MHz depending on

the area being treated. This sound caused vibrations. If the vibration is

continuous and regular a constant tone or frequency is produced. The vibration

or sound wave propagates through the soft tissue medium, and the cells of the

soft tissue pass on their vibration to neighbouring cells and series of

compressions and rarefactions are produced in the direction of travel of the

wave. As the sound wave passes through the soft tissue medium, causing

molecules to vibrate, some of the energy in the wave is converted from kinetic

energy to heat. This heat helps with circulation, movement of waste products

through the lymphatic system and provision of nutrients to promote healing.

Interferential Current Therapy

Interferential current therapy (IFC) is the application of alternating mediumfrequency

current amplitude modulated at low frequency. We use it to decrease

pain, increase circulation and block nerve conduction according to a

physiological mechanism called the “pain gate control” theory. A claimed

advantage of IFC over low-frequency currents is its capacity to diminish the

impedance offered by the skin. Another advantage speculated for IFC is its

ability to generate an amplitude-modulated frequency (AMF) parameter, which

is a low-frequency current generated deep within the treatment area.

Combination Therapy

Combination therapy involves the simultaneous application of ultrasound with

an electrical stimulation therapy. The main advantages of such a combination are

said to be in ensuring accurate localisation of ultrasound treatment to provide

increased accuracy/effectiveness in treating deeper lesions and treating trigger

points. The combination of ultrasound with interferential therapy achieves

greater and effective treatment depth.

TENS

A Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator, more commonly referred to as a

TENS unit, is a small, battery-powered, portable muscle and nerve stimulation

machine that can be used at home to help control pain. A TENS unit is often

times recommended to assist in reducing neuropathic pain, but is not suggested

for those with chronic pain.

Ice and Heat Therapy

Depending upon the severity of your condition, both ice and heat can reduce

pain or the inflammation of injured muscles and nerves. Cold therapy is often the

best immediate treatment for recent injuries. It helps reduce swelling and control

pain immediately. Unlike cold therapy, heat therapy is generally used for those

with chronic pain from previous injuries. Heat therapy not only reduces the

patients’ pain, but it also relaxes the sore, stiff muscles and/or joints and

increases circulation. Heat and ice can be combined with interferential therapy

which aid in decreasing symptoms.

Dry needling

Dry needling is a form of physiotherapy used to treat musculoskeletal pain and

dysfunction. It is an invasive form of myofascial release in which thin, flexible

needles are inserted into the body. The places the needles are placed in the body

is determined by accurate anatomical knowledge based on sound scientific

reasoning and anatomy knowledge that our Physiotherapist are masters in. This

is different to acupuncture, which is a treatment technique related to Chinese

Medicine, and takes a philosophical rather than empirical approach to the body.

For which conditions can Dry Needling be used

Dry needling can be used to treat many musculoskeletal conditions. We realise

the importance that the use of the technique outside of a balanced, professionally

designed treatment regime that includes therapeutic exercise, manual therapy

and patient education is not desirable. That said, the technique is effective in

treating back and neck pain, muscle strains, tight and painful scars, headaches,

shoulder pain, and a myriad of other problems related to the muscles, pain and

how the body copes with these.

What are the Side Effects of Dry Needling

There are relatively few side effects, which is one of the great advantages of this

effective therapy. The more common ones include discomfort from the needling

procedure, bruising, and occasionally a very small amount of bleeding. Less

commonly, patients may experience transient feelings of drowsiness, euphoria,

tearfulness, sweating or chills.

How Does It Work?

Dry needling works in at least 3 different ways depending on what you do with

the needle. Firstly, the simple insertion of a needle and the subsequent

stimulation of the needle gives you a rush of natural painkillers called opioids,

and a feel good hormone called serotonin. These actively reduce your pain, and

this enables you to exercise more effectively. Secondly, using a needle to

stimulate a trigger point in a muscle frees the muscle up to work more efficiently

by causing it to twitch and release. These helps the local muscle, to both contract

and lengthen better, and will allow you to have more power and better flexibility

in the muscle. This also reduces local muscle pain. Thirdly, by using a

combination of needles in different parts of the biomechanical system, your

therapist can help you align and balance out your movement patterns as a

whole. The exact reasons for the undoubted success of all three approaches is

quite complex, and requires a longer explanation.

Chest physiotherapy

Chest physiotherapy (CPT) is a way to help get mucus out of the lungs. It

involves a group of physical techniques namely turning, postural drainage, chest

percussion and vibration, and specialized cough techniques which are directed to

assist the coughing up of mucus. Any or all of these techniques may be

performed in conjunction with medicinal aerosol therapy (i.e. bronchodilators or

mucolytic) depending on the prescription of the referring Doctor. It is indicated

for patients in whom cough is insufficient to clear thick, tenacious, or localized

secretions. Examples include:

Cystic fibrosis
Bronchiectasis
Atelectasis
Lung abscess
Neuromuscular diseases
Pneumonias in dependent lung regions.

CPT can be given to the general public including paediatrics and geriatrics. The

physiotherapist may use a suction catheter to eliminate secretions when the

cough is not effective enough. This is commonly used on babies under 2 years

because they are not able to cough up secretions effectively and on command.

Suctioning is a safe and effective way of clearing secretions, it’s done while lying

sideways to prevent aspiration, a catheter is inserted into the nasal passage to the

back of the throat to stimulate a cough reflex and once the child coughs the

secretions are suctioned out.

Our Physiotherapists are skilful in assisting the clearing of secretions using CPT

and they use it in treating patients in the hospital, ICU and High Care, as well as

patients in the rooms.

Postural and ergonomic correction

Posture is defined as the way you position your body upright against gravity

while standing, sitting or lying down. Good posture involves training your body

to stand, walk, sit and lie in positions where the least strain is placed on

supporting muscles and ligaments during movement or weight-bearing

activities. Our bones hold us up, our joints link our bones, our muscles move the

bones around the joints and our nerves facilitate control of the whole. The key to

good posture is correct joint alignment, good muscle activity; good balance and

good conductivity of the nerves that control are all part of the picture.

Ergonomics is defined as the scientific discipline concerned with the

understanding of interactions among humans and other elements of a system,

and the profession that applies theory, principles, data and methods to design in

order to optimize human well-being and overall system performance -

International Ergonomics Association (IEA)

Providing education, advice and training about workplace posture is an integral

part of maximising the investment in employees. Employers now have to invest

huge amounts of management time to comply with employment and health and

safety legal requirements. Having our Physiotherapists present in Corporate

Wellness Clinics is an excellent way to minimise management time overheads.

In many businesses employees are the most expensive asset. It makes sense to

ensure that this asset can work most efficiently by having a physiotherapist

assess the asset and its environment. Therefore something that is fundamental to

the individual is fundamental to the employer as well. Modern life is bad for

posture and the chances are that any new employee may have and may develop

musculoskeletal problems. When this is tackled at its roots, management time is

saved; each employee will be giving better value for money, and the employer

achieves an advantage over its competitors who fail to act in this area. Enabling a

positive approach to posture is a serious competitive advantage.

Employers benefit from investing in workplace posture and ergonomics when

they use our Physiotherapists who have a sound knowledge on body

biomechanics.

There are three main areas of business life in which the employer will gain from

investing in improving posture at the workplace:

greater efficiency through improved morale, higher productivity, and less absenteeism
compliance with health and safety law
reduction of the risks litigation from injured or stressed employees

Services Include:

An in depth assessment of your condition, proceeded withtreatment aimed at

reducing impairment, improving function and preventing re-injury.

A referral to other healthcare professionals and/or specialists can be made if

necessary.

We also offer corporate physiotherapy services. Please contact us for further

details