Hein Viljoen
Physiotherapy
When you hear “physiotherapy,” do you picture an injured athlete recovering on the sidelines? While physiotherapy is essential for sports rehabilitation, it is not just for professional athletes. Physiotherapy can also benefit those who are dealing with back pain from sitting all day, recovering from surgery, or simply looking to move better. It can be a game-changer for anyone who wants to feel stronger, move easily, and live pain-free.
Physiotherapy is not just about treating injuries — but improving your overall well-being. Many different groups of people can benefit from physiotherapy, including:
Sitting for hours in front of a screen can lead to poor posture, tension headaches, and chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Physiotherapists can teach you proper posture and provide exercises to strengthen muscles weakened by prolonged sitting. Hands-on massages and joint mobilisation can also relieve built-up tension, helping you feel more comfortable and focused throughout your workday.
Did you know? Studies show that up to 80% of adults experience lower back pain at some point, often due to prolonged sitting and bad posture.
As we age, our muscles weaken, joints stiffen, and balance deteriorates, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. Physiotherapy helps older adults maintain strength, flexibility, and coordination through exercise programmes. It can also aid in managing conditions like osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, reducing pain and improving mobility so that everyday activities — like climbing stairs and gardening — remain possible and enjoyable.
Did you know? One in four adults over the age of 65 falls at least once a year, often due to decreased balance and muscle weakness.
Regaining strength and mobility is crucial to a full recovery after surgery. A structured rehabilitation plan includes gentle mobility exercises, strength training, and other physiotherapy techniques to reduce pain and accelerate healing. Physiotherapists also provide guidance on safely returning to daily activities without risking re-injury.
Did you know? Research shows that patients who follow a tailored physiotherapy programme after surgery recover faster and experience better long-term outcomes than those who do not.
Chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and sciatica can significantly impact daily life. Rather than relying solely on pain medication, physiotherapy offers a long-term solution by addressing the root causes of discomfort. A combination of hands-on therapy, movement retraining, and exercises can help manage pain, improve joint function, and improve overall quality of life.
Did you know? Chronic pain affects more than 20% of the global population, making it one of the most common health conditions worldwide.
Pregnancy places immense strain on the body, often leading to lower back pain, pelvic discomfort, and postural imbalances. Physiotherapy helps expectant mothers by strengthening core and pelvic floor muscles, improving posture, and relieving tension. After childbirth, physiotherapy helps in recovery by addressing abdominal separation (diastasis recti), pelvic floor dysfunction, and postural adjustments needed for breastfeeding and baby-carrying.
Did you know? Up to 50% of pregnant women experience lower back pain, and physiotherapy can significantly relieve symptoms.
People recovering from neurological conditions
Neurological conditions such as strokes, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease can lead to muscle weakness, impaired coordination, and mobility issues. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in rehabilitation by using specific exercises to improve motor control, balance, and functional independence. Techniques such as gait retraining and neuro-muscular re-education help patients regain movement, adapt to physical changes, and maintain as much independence as possible in their daily lives.
Did you know? Physiotherapy can help stroke survivors regain up to 70% of their lost mobility with early and consistent rehabilitation.
If you are feeling pain, stiffness, or discomfort that would not go away, do not wait. The sooner you see a physiotherapist, the easier it is to prevent minor issues from turning into long-term problems.
You may not be a professional athlete, but you deserve professional care! Let our Cape Town physiotherapy team help you move and live a healthier life.
