Alida Botha Physiotherapists

Physiotherapy with a Special Interest in Post-Breast Surgery Rehabilitation

Recovery after breast surgery can involve a range of physical challenges. At our practice, we help you address common post-operative concerns, including:

• Reduced mobility in the operated arm including axillary cording issues
• Decreased muscle strength and function in the arm and shoulder girdle
• Tightness across the chest wall or restrictive scar tissue
• Uncertainty about when and how to resume exercise safely
• A feeling of heaviness or fullness in the operated arm
• Localised fluid accumulation over the chest wall
• Visible lymphoedema in the arm
• Guidance and education following axillary dissection, including preventative strategies
• Neck, upper-back, or shoulder pain caused by postural or biomechanical changes

Recovery begins with a first step — and you don’t have to take it alone.

We provide a holistic, evidence-based approach to rehabilitation. Depending on your needs, treatment may include:

• Assessment and management of muscle, joint, and nerve-related issues
• Fascial release techniques
• Scar tissue management
• Lymphoedema treatment and education for prevention when indicated
• Structured rehabilitation programs to restore mobility, strength, and functional capacity

We provide specialised care for patients with a variety of lymphoedema conditions, including:

• Secondary lymphoedema
• Primary lymphoedema
• Lipo-lymphoedema
• Phlebo-lymphoedema

Management of Lymphoedema
Our approach is based on Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT), which may include:

• Manual lymphatic drainage to promote fluid movement
• Compression therapy, including bandaging and guidance on proper use of compression garments
• Therapeutic exercises to support lymphatic flow and mobility
• Skin care to maintain health and prevent complications
• Self-care education to empower you to manage your condition effectively
• Our goal is to reduce swelling, improve function, and support your independence and quality of life.

Our approach is holistic and patient-centered, aiming to help you maintain function, improve well-being, and enhance quality of life throughout your treatment and recovery.

We provide physiotherapy support for patients experiencing a variety of respiratory challenges, including:

• Asthma
• Post-operative respiratory compromise
• Pneumonia recovery
• Other chronic or acute respiratory conditions

Management of Respiratory Conditions
Our evidence-based approach may include:

• Breathing exercises to improve lung capacity and efficiency
• Airway clearance techniques to support effective mucus removal
• Postural and mobility interventions to optimize respiratory function
• Targeted percussion and vibration techniques, used selectively when clinically appropriate, to support mucus clearance
• Exercise programs tailored to increase endurance, strength, and overall well-being
• Patient education on strategies to manage symptoms and prevent exacerbations
• Our goal is to help restore respiratory function, improve energy and endurance, and support a better quality of life.

Oncology patients may face a variety of physical challenges and often benefit from specific physiotherapy guidance and support. Common areas we address include:

• Management of lymphoedema
• Support for general orthopaedic problems
• Exercise guidance to maintain strength and cardiovascular fitness during active treatment (chemotherapy or radiation) and beyond, always in close collaboration with your oncologist
• Strength training tailored to your individual needs
• Support for respiratory conditions

Post-surgical and injury rehabilitation for joints and bones, focusing on restoring range of motion, strength and function. We use evidence-based protocols tailored to your procedure or injury to help you regain independence quickly and safely.

We provide comprehensive assessment and treatment for a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, including back and neck pain or injuries, sports-related injuries, joint and muscle pain, arthritis, and general orthopaedic conditions. Our goal is to restore function, reduce pain, and improve overall mobility and quality of life.