Welcome to the physiotherapy section of Time-to-Run Cape Town. Teri Burgess - resident physiotherapist

The purpose of the physiotherapy section is primarily to discuss injury prevention, as well as the appropriate management of running injuries. As well as providing you with a list of registered physiotherapists, guiding you to the correct self-treatment as well as the best available medical help.

Physiotherapists are university-educated experts who can help you achieve your highest level of physical functioning (at any stage of life) by providing you with a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs.

Individualized treatment of an injury or disability based on scientific knowledge,
a thorough assessment of the condition, environmental factors and lifestyle.

Exercise prescription is a major tool in the physiotherapist's repertoire of treatment techniques. Like other treatments, it must be carefully applied, continually assessed and re-assessed, and modified accordingly. Short and long-term goal setting is essential as is commitment from the patient and physiotherapist. Goals may range from simple activities of daily living tasks, such as holding a cup or utensils, working without discomfort or performing in a concert or sporting event. The role of exercise is not only a form of treatment or adjunct to treatment, but also a self-management and prevention approach.

The physiotherapist will perform a thorough assessment before prescribing specific exercises. Patient assessment can include consideration of: The presenting problem - pain, joint stiffness, muscle inflexibility, functional instability, muscle weakness, lack of coordination/balance, joint laxity. All may culminate in a loss of function activities of daily living.

With the months to come this section will be developed to provide you with links to physiotherapists in your area.