PhysioCare

PhysioCare PhysioCare is a private physiotherapy practice based in the South Peninsula. We provide quality physiotherapy services for people of all ages.

We strive to give evidence-based care structured by a thorough assessment and treatment plan. My name is Chanté van Tonder. I'm a qualified physiotherapist with a special interest in paediatrics. I graduated with a Bachelors of Physiotherapy (Honours) Cum Laude at the University of Stellenbosch. I’m passionate about working with children and assisting them to reach their fullest potential through enjoyable, therapeutic play techniques. I feel that parent/carer involvement is important; therefore, my goal is to educate and guide parents to work with their children to optimise their physical development.

Ankle SprainsAnkle sprains are a common injury, especially for those of us who love to stay active. Whether you’re a run...
09/07/2024

Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are a common injury, especially for those of us who love to stay active. Whether you’re a runner, dancer, or just took a misstep, a sprain can put a serious damper on your routine. But don't worry – physiotherapy is here to save the day! 🙌💪
What is an Ankle Sprain? 🤔

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support your ankle get stretched or torn. This can happen during activities that involve twisting or turning your foot, or if you accidentally step on an uneven surface.

Why Physiotherapy? 🩺❤️
Physiotherapy is crucial for a speedy and effective recovery. It helps:
• Reduce Pain and Swelling: Techniques like ice therapy, compression, and elevation can significantly reduce initial pain and swelling.
• Restore Mobility: Gentle exercises and stretches improve the range of motion in your ankle.
• Strengthen Muscles: Targeted workouts strengthen the muscles around your ankle, preventing future injuries.
• Improve Balance: Balance training helps you regain stability and confidence in your movements.

When to Seek Professional Help 🆘
If your pain is severe, or if you notice significant swelling or bruising, it’s important to see a physiotherapist. They can create a personalised treatment plan and monitor your progress.

Remember, taking care of an ankle sprain properly ensures you get back to your favourite activities faster and stronger. 💥🦵
Stay active, stay healthy, and don’t let an injury slow you down! 💚🌟

🏃‍♀️ Struggling with ITB Syndrome? Let's conquer it together! 🏃‍♂️ Physiotherapy offers a comprehensive approach to get ...
22/01/2024

🏃‍♀️ Struggling with ITB Syndrome? Let's conquer it together! 🏃‍♂️ Physiotherapy offers a comprehensive approach to get you back on the road pain-free.

🩹 Assessment & Diagnosis: We will dive deep into your movement patterns, identifying the root cause for a personalised plan.

• Tailored Treatment Plan: No one-size-fits-all here! We craft a plan with a mix of exercises, stretches, and interventions to target your specific needs.
• Stretching & Strengthening: Bid farewell to that stubborn tightness! We'll guide you through exercises to improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles supporting your ITB.
• Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to ease tension, reduce inflammation, and enhance mobility.
• Dry Needling: Needle your way to relief! This technique targets trigger points in muscles, promoting relaxation and aiding in pain management.

Ready to kick ITBS to the curb? 💪 🏃‍♂️ 🏃‍♀️

Contact PhysioCare to book your appointment.

𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐟 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐜𝐥𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐣𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬Do you have a nagging calf muscle injury that just won't go away? Physiotherapy may be the solution ...
24/04/2023

𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐟 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐜𝐥𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐣𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬

Do you have a nagging calf muscle injury that just won't go away? Physiotherapy may be the solution you're looking for! We can help you get to the root of the problem and develop a treatment plan that works for you.

Through a combination of manual therapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises, we can help you relieve pain and improve your calf muscle function. Our goal is to not only treat your injury but also prevent future occurrences by improving your overall calf muscle health.

Don't let calf muscle injuries hold you back from the activities you love. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards recovery!

𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐜𝐢𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐬Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that affects the feet, causing pain and discomfort in the heel ...
08/03/2023

𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐜𝐢𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐬

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that affects the feet, causing pain and discomfort in the heel and arch of the foot. It is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes.

𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐏𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩?

One of the most effective treatments for plantar fasciitis is physiotherapy, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation, increase flexibility and strength, and improve overall foot function.

Physiotherapy for plantar fasciitis typically involves a combination of stretch and strengthening exercises, manual therapy, and education.

If you are experiencing foot pain, it is important to seek the advice of a qualified physiotherapist who can provide a tailored treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals.

Contact us to book your appointment: 064 547 7270 or chante@physiocarecpt.co.za

𝟔 𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐬 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐌𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐍𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲Paediatric physiotherapists can help you and your children with a variety of ...
17/08/2022

𝟔 𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐬 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐌𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐍𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲

Paediatric physiotherapists can help you and your children with a variety of concerns. Here are just 6 areas of concern a children’s physiotherapist can help with but there are so many more.

𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬 – Babies and children learn at their own pace which can often correlate to the acquisition of their skills at different stages. A baby's development can be adversely affected by factors such as prematurity, reflux, colic, and other health concerns. Children's physiotherapists understand child development and can help assess your baby to advise fun, engaging activities that can help your baby feel better.

𝐃𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐛𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 – Would you describe your child as “accident prone “or “clumsy”? Physiotherapy can help retrain their bodies to move without falling over. Balance problems can be caused by multiple underlying causes. A physiotherapist can help to determine the root cause and challenge the body to improve specific muscle strength.

𝐑𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐠𝐮𝐞 – Tiredness and fatigue are common complaints of many children, but not something that has to start limiting your child’s function. If tiredness becomes an issue for your child a physio can help address the issue and teach you and your child ways of managing fatigue and gradually increasing fitness and stamina to help them live a full and active lifestyle.

𝐁𝐚𝐛𝐲’𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐥𝐚𝐭 𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞 – Baby's heads can be shaped differently because of Plagiocephaly or Torticollis. A parent may notice that their baby has a flattened head on one side, or that the baby's head seems tilted to one side. Children’s physiotherapists are experts at identifying this early and can advise stretches, exercises and activities that will influence the imbalance of the muscles.

𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧𝐣𝐮𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐲 – If your child suffered an injury or underwent surgery, he or she might need to see a physiotherapist to help them regain their range of motion and strength. Children’s bones are still growing and setting, and without proper mobility training, the affected limb might cause more problems in the future.

𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐧 – Just like adults, children may experience pain and aches after strenuous activities from time to time. Children who complain of persistent pain in their arms, legs, or backs should not be ignored. All of this can be assessed, advised and monitored by a children’s physiotherapist.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us: 064 547 7270 /chante@physiocarecpt.co.za.

𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐩𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐲𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐞The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway on the palm side of your wrist. The tunnel protects the m...
20/06/2022

𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐩𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐲𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐞

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway on the palm side of your wrist. The tunnel protects the median nerve and the tendons that bend your fingers. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a painful hand disorder caused by pressure on your median nerve as it runs through the wrist’s carpal tunnel.

𝐒𝐲𝐦𝐩𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐓𝐒:
- Pain during certain activities such as writing, typing or gripping
- Pain along the wrist joint line worse at night and may disturb sleep
- Numbness and tingling sensation in the hand
- Weakness in the hand

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐦𝐚𝐲 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐓𝐒:
-Inflammation and swelling of the tendons of the wrist
- Injuries to the wrist (strain, sprain, dislocation, fracture)
- Hormone or metabolic changes (pregnancy, menopause, thyroid imbalance)
- Fluid retention
- Diabetes
- Medications (such as steroids or chemotherapy)
- Degenerative and rheumatoid arthritis

𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐏𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩?
Physiotherapy can reduce your symptoms and get back to your everyday activities.

Depending on the causes of your CTS, your treatment may include:
- Stretching exercises
- Strengthening exercises
- Joint and neural mobilisation
- Splinting
- Cold and heat treatments
- Patient education

Contact us to book your appointment: 064 547 7270 or chante@physiocarecpt.co.za

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚?Sciatica refers to pain that travels down the back of the buttock and leg, as low down as the feet and ...
18/05/2022

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚?
Sciatica refers to pain that travels down the back of the buttock and leg, as low down as the feet and toes. Pain is usually caused by an irritation to the sciatic nerve or the nerve roots in your lower back which gives rise to the sciatic nerve. The symptoms may include changes in sensation, tingling and weakness of the muscles.

𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞:
- Lumbar disc injury or herniation
- Arthritis or stiff joints
- Narrowing of the canals around the nerve
- Muscle (piriformis) compressing or irritating the nerve

𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐏𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩?
During your appointment, your Physiotherapist will perform a complete assessment, beginning with a comprehensive history and then concluding with a physical examination to identify which body part is most likely to be causing your symptoms.

Physiotherapy treatments may include:
- Mobilisation of the joints - a technique that keeps the joints mobile and prevents stiffness.
- Soft tissue release – a technique that restores muscle and fascia to their original length while keeping them flexible.
- Strengthening – enhancing muscle strength, especially in the core muscles has been shown to reduce pain and improve function.
- Neural tissue mobilisation – exercises designed to get the nerve moving and improve its ability to glide alongside surrounding tissues.
- Advice - education on positioning, posturing and the level of activity suitable for you to allow your symptoms to settle and prevent pain in the future.

𝐓𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐬 𝐄𝐥𝐛𝐨𝐰Tennis Elbow, also known as “Lateral Epicondylitis”, is the most common overuse injury in the elbow. It resu...
27/04/2022

𝐓𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐬 𝐄𝐥𝐛𝐨𝐰

Tennis Elbow, also known as “Lateral Epicondylitis”, is the most common overuse injury in the elbow. It results from overuse of the muscles in your arm and forearm (extensors). It occurs in the tendons that attach your muscles to the rounded projections of bone on the outside of the elbow (the lateral epicondyle). Overusing the wrist and hands can cause this condition. Some examples include working on a computer or operating machinery. It can happen to athletes, non-athletes, children, and adults.

𝐓𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐥𝐛𝐨𝐰 𝐬𝐲𝐦𝐩𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐬:

• Pain that radiates from the outside of your elbow to your forearm and wrist.
• Increased pain or difficulty when using your wrist and hand for everyday activities. For example, turning a doorknob, holding a coffee cup, gripping objects and opening a jar.
• Stiffness in the elbow.
• Weakness in the forearm, wrist, or hand.

𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐏𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩?

First, the physiotherapist will assess the location of the pain to rule out other causes of your elbow pain. The goal is to improve the strength and flexibility of your forearm muscles to prevent Tennis elbow from recurring.

𝐏𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲 𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞:

• Joint mobilisation
• Soft tissue massage
• Exercises including strengthening and stretches
• Dry needling
• Kinesio taping
• Hot/Cold Therapy

Contact us to book your appointment: 064 547 7270/chante@physiocarecpt.co.za

𝐏𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲 𝐚𝐭 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞Do you need physiotherapy at home? Physiotherapy at home is for our community members that prefer t...
30/03/2022

𝐏𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲 𝐚𝐭 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞

Do you need physiotherapy at home? Physiotherapy at home is for our community members that prefer to have their physiotherapist come to their home. PhysioCare provides quality home-based rehabilitation for conditions such as neurological impairments, pre-or post-operative orthopaedic rehabilitation, care of the elderly, sports conditions, and even back and neck pain.

𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐜𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐞:
- Prefers the convenience of their own home and saving time
- Some clients are not so mobile, especially the elderly and patients with neurological deficits.
- People who suffer from chronic conditions that will put them at higher risk for other illnesses and infections.
- Exercise programs can be designed to use what is available at home.
- No transport or unable to drive a car

𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐏𝐡𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐲:
- Better compliance
- Reduced likelihood of relapse
- A faster recovery and better outcomes

Contact us to book your appointment: 081 025 7426/chante@physiocarecpt.co.za

What is Congenital Torticollis?Congenital torticollis is the tightness of the sternocleidomastoid muscle on one side of ...
16/03/2022

What is Congenital Torticollis?

Congenital torticollis is the tightness of the sternocleidomastoid muscle on one side of the neck which causes the child’s head to turn in one direction, and tip in the opposite direction. Torticollis can cause flattening on one side of the skull and delays in motor development.

Congenital torticollis can occur from in-utero positioning such as a baby with a breech presentation, or a very large baby. It can also be caused by trauma during delivery from forceps or vacuum use. Typically, this condition is diagnosed 6-8 weeks after birth as the infant gains head control and begins to prefer turning to one side, although it can be identified earlier.

How can Physiotherapy help?

- Assist with advice on infant positioning in sleep, play, and throughout the day
- Provide hands-on strengthening and stretching exercises
- Give advice on age-appropriate play-based activities for strengthening
- Use techniques to facilitate muscle activation
- Provide and demonstrate a home programme

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us.

𝐎𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐬Osteoporosis is a condition in which a person's bones lose calcium and other minerals, which make them more ...
23/02/2022

𝐎𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐬

Osteoporosis is a condition in which a person's bones lose calcium and other minerals, which make them more susceptible to fractures. Osteoporosis is more common in women because hormonal changes during menopause make bone loss worse.

𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐞𝐱𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐬:
• reducing bone loss
• preserving remaining bone tissue
• improving fitness and muscle strength
• increasing mobility
• enhancing balance and coordination
• decreasing the risk of bone fractures caused by falls
• pain reduction
• improved mood and health

𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐞𝐱𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐬:
• weight-bearing aerobics exercises such as walking & hiking
• resistance training using free weights such as dumbbells and barbells, elastic band resistance, body-weight resistance or weight-training machines
• exercises to improve posture, balance and body strength, Pilates & Yoga.

𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐝:
• Exercise that involves forward bending of the spine, such as abdominal sit-ups
• Exercises associated with a higher risk of falling
• require sudden, forceful movement, unless introduced gradually as part of a progressive program
• require a forceful twisting motion, such as a golf swing, unless the person is accustomed to such movements.

Contact us to book your appointment if you think you have osteoporosis or want to take preventative measures.

W-Sitting in childrenThe term "W-sitting" refers to a sitting position in which the child's bottom is on the floor while...
02/02/2022

W-Sitting in children

The term "W-sitting" refers to a sitting position in which the child's bottom is on the floor while their feet are spread out to the sides - forming a "W" shape with their legs and knees.

Although W-sitting may seem like a benign position, it has many negative implications.

Physiotherapists do not recommend this position for a variety of reasons:

• Encourages poor posture
• Discourages activation of trunk muscles leading to deficits in balance
• Limits exploration and movement between positions
• Impairs the development of midline crossing
• Puts excess stress on the hip and knee joints
• It can lead to hamstring tightness, tibial torsion, and hip dislocation

Why do some children prefer to "W-sit?”

• Structural abnormalities of the hips
• A weak core or poor balance
• Several children have developed a habit of sitting in this position because it requires less muscle movement and provides more stability, resulting in an increased reliance on it.

What are some solutions?

• Sit in alternative positions, such as a "criss cross", long leg sitting, side sitting, or sitting on a low chair.
• Seeking the help of a physiotherapist who can help your child strengthen their core and stretch tight hip muscles.

If you have any questions or concerns about your child's gross motor development please reach out to chante@physiocarecpt.co.za.

Address

9 Carlton Close, Office 3, Sunnydale
Cape Town
7975

Opening Hours

Monday 08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 17:00
Thursday 08:00 - 17:00
Friday 08:00 - 17:00

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