Question 1

Do I need a doctor's referral to book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

No. Physiotherapists in South Africa are first-line practitioners, so you can book directly with me. If a doctor, gynaecologist, dentist or surgeon is already involved in your care, I'm happy to keep them updated with your consent.

Question 2

Do you treat men as well as women?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I treat women and men of all ages and activity levels — back, neck and joint pain, sports and running injuries, headaches, jaw pain and sinus symptoms. For male pelvic health concerns, I don't treat men in that area myself but can refer you to several trusted colleagues who do. My special interests are neuromusculoskeletal physiotherapy and women's & pelvic health, both supported by extensive postgraduate training.

Question 3

How long is my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Your initial appointment is 60 minutes. This allows time for a comprehensive assessment, discussion of your concerns and goals, a thorough physical examination, and treatment during the same session whenever appropriate.

Question 4

How long are follow-up appointments?

Accepted Answer

Follow-up appointments are 45 minutes. These sessions focus on reassessment, progression of your rehabilitation programme, hands-on treatment where appropriate, and ensuring you continue making meaningful progress towards your goals.

Question 5

Can I claim from my medical aid?

Accepted Answer

Most medical aids cover physiotherapy, though the amount depends on your plan and available benefits. I'll provide an invoice with the correct codes so you can submit it, and I'm happy to explain the likely costs before you commit.

Question 6

What should I wear and bring?

Accepted Answer

Comfortable clothing you can move in is ideal — shorts or leggings for lower limb and pelvic concerns, and a vest for neck, shoulder or back problems. Bring any relevant scans, reports or referral letters, and your running shoes if running is part of the picture.

Question 7

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

Straightforward problems often settle in two to four sessions. Long-standing pelvic, jaw or persistent pain presentations usually need longer. You'll get a realistic estimate at your first visit, and an honest conversation if progress isn't tracking as expected.

Question 8

What happens at a first appointment?

Accepted Answer

We start with a conversation — what's going on, when it started, what you've tried and what you want to get back to. That's followed by a thorough physical assessment, an explanation of what I've found in plain language, hands-on treatment where it's appropriate, and the first steps of your rehabilitation plan.

Question 9

What is a pelvic floor assessment, and is it always internal?

Accepted Answer

A pelvic floor assessment may include an internal vaginal examination, which is the most accurate way to assess these muscles — but it is never done without a full explanation and your explicit consent. There are effective external alternatives, and it is completely acceptable to decline or to wait until you feel ready.

Question 10

Do you offer treatment during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, at any stage of pregnancy. Treatment positions and techniques are adapted for comfort and safety, and I work with pelvic girdle and back pain, bladder symptoms, breathing and preparation for birth as well as safe exercise through each trimester.

Question 11

Can physiotherapy help my headaches or jaw pain?

Accepted Answer

Very often, yes. A significant proportion of persistent headaches are driven by the upper neck or jaw, both of which respond well to treatment. I completed postgraduate training in TMJ assessment and treatment, and assessment usually establishes quickly whether your symptoms have a treatable physical driver.

Question 12

Do you use dry needling, and is it the same as acupuncture?

Accepted Answer

I'm qualified in dry needling, which uses fine needles to release trigger points and reduce muscle tension. It's based on musculoskeletal anatomy rather than traditional meridians, so it isn't the same as acupuncture. It's always optional and only used where it will genuinely add to your treatment.

Question 13

I'm not injured, but I want to train better. Can you help?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Sports physiotherapy includes screening, strength profiling, gait analysis and load planning so that injuries don't interrupt a training block in the first place — whatever your sport or level.

Question 14

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but not hours of them. Your programme will be short, specific and progressive, because a plan you can actually complete is the one that produces results. We'll adjust it as you improve.

Question 15

Is my information kept private?

Accepted Answer

Always. Everything discussed in the room stays confidential, records are stored securely, and nothing is shared with another practitioner without your consent.

Everything you might want to know before you book

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