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Teaching

Learning

Outreach

Annual Review 2019/2020 2

THE VISION OF THE SASP MISSION STATEMENT The SASP is committed to being a dynamic, of the South African Society of Physiotherapy professional and innovative organisation, effectively representing its members and The South African Society of Physiotherapy is a dynamic and professional playing a pro-active role in furthering organisation that works to meet the needs of its members while promoting and guarding the integrity and unique and protecting the physiotherapy profession. It is committed to: nature of the physiotherapy profession, • Being pro-active in the formulation and implementation of health care while supporting the formulation and policy at all levels of government, in alignment with the National Health implementation of health care policy in Plan, with the aim of achieving the goals of Accessibility, Affordability and South Africa for better health for all. Appropriateness; • Promoting transformation and equity in the profession; • Fostering national and international relationships with other health-care NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE providers; President Prof Witness Mudzi • Promoting education and research; Deputy president Mr Rogier van Bever Donker • Defending the integrity and unique nature of the profession. Finance coordinator Ms Edwina Oliver Public sector representative Ms Sulochana Naidoo Private sector representative Ms Wilna-Mari van Staden AIMS AND OBJECTIVES Provincial representative Ms Lonese Jacobs of the South African Society of SIG representative Mr Brent Grimsley Professional development Dr Natalie Benjamin-Damons Physiotherapy Communications Dr Diana Coetzer The Society has the following fundamental, enduring and long-term aims PROVINCES and objectives, namely: Eastern Cape 2019 Gerrie Dimitriou • to promote on a national basis, the common interests of physiotherapists 2020 Sid Puckree and the welfare of the profession, having regard at all times to the broader Northern Cape 2019 Jean -Lu Nico Jansen interests of the public whom the profession serves, and to endeavour to Western Cape 2019 Chanel van Zyl reconcile, where they may conflict, the interests of the profession and the Freestate 2019 Alicia Granzier public; Gauteng North 2019 Martin van Heerden • to safeguard and maintain the independence, objectivity and integrity of Gauteng South 2019 Heather Talbot the profession; Kwazulu Natal 2019 Sicelo Njabulo Ndlazi • to maintain and enhance the professional standards, prestige and standing Limpopo 2019 Ester Venter of the profession and of its members both nationally and internationally, 2020 Michele Kroger which standards shall be reviewed from time to time to take into account Mpumulanga 2019 Rolene Schoonraad the objectives of the Society; 2020 Peta-Ann Schmidt • to uphold and encourage the practice of physiotherapy, and to promote North West 2019 Elaine Marais and facilitate access to the profession; • to promote the training and continuing education of physiotherapists, SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS research in the science of physiotherapy and in any related science or Animal Health Ms Diana Bollweg practice, research in technology as it relates to physiotherapy and the Aquatic Ms Gilian Adams practical application of such technology; Cardio-pulmonary Rehabilitation Ms Lizl van Heerden • to initiate, consider, promote, support, oppose or endeavour to modify Neurological Rehabilitation Ms Barbara Meylahn legislation, whether existing or proposed, insofar as it relates to the Orthopedic Manipulative Ms Timoreta Gray profession; Pierre Roscher • to represent generally the views of the profession on a national basis; Paediatrics Ms Kate Cason • to nominate, elect, appoint or delegate person(s) to represent the Society Pain Management Ms Andrea Linser (or any portion of it) in any public, private or government forum where Sports Group Mr Pierre Roscher matters relating to Physiotherapy or the aims and objectives of the SASP Women’s Health Dr Corlia Brandt are addressed; PORTFOLIOS • to take up membership of or co-operate with any national or international Journal Editor Prof Aimee Stewart organisation or body of a similar nature with similar objectives to the National Physiotherapy SASP. This would include organisations which extend their operations Educators Forum Heleen Nel beyond the borders of SA. Quality Improvement Dr Gillian Ferguson (From the SASP constitution amended at the AGM in September 2019.) 3

From the President’s desk

Be prepared The physiotherapy profession’s focus on evidence-based learning and outreach, in 2019 and earlier, has paid off

t’s possible that, in the not-too-distant learning, teaching, and reaching out future, we’ll refer to the years 2019 to communities. responsibility activities enable us to get and 2021 as ‘BC’ or ‘AC’ – ‘Before The South African Society of Physio- the message across, while giving us an ICOVID-19’ and ‘After COVID-19’. therapy (SASP) has very active Special understanding of communities and, often, Looking back on 2019 from late 2020 feels Interest Groups, and flipping through providing help which makes members like teleporting back into a very distant these pages, you’ll notice that one of their of the community more resilient and time. What were we doing back then, as major activities, in fact their primary active (wheelchairs for people living with the body that represents the majority of focus, is learning. They offer group disabilities are just one example). physiotherapists in South Africa, in that members courses which equip them to As we faced the COVID-19 crisis, it time before SARS-CoV2 became a global offer a specific range of services beyond became apparent that our core message, phenomenon? the standard skill-set; and they organise that movement is foundational to The initial months of the pandemic saw special events which give physiotherapists good health, had a special significance. the focus on understanding the virus and a chance to polish their skills and ensure Movement and exercise are important its impacts, seeking best-practice ways of their knowledge keeps pace with cutting- to managing and improving so many treating and managing patients to save lives, edge research. This is a profession which conditions which, it turns out, place people and non-pharmaceutical interventions to seeks to be evidence-based; we have at greater risk of experiencing severe slow the spread. been on a quest to ensure that the treatment illness or even death from the virus. If As the pandemic evolved, however, it and care we offer is as effective and aligned physiotherapists encouraged and helped began to be clear that many patients to patient needs as possible. just a few people to get moving and improve would experience long recoveries, Part of our scope of practice is health their health during 2019, they can be sure both as in-patients and out of education, and as is true in every year, in those people were better equipped when the hospital, and that they would need 2019 our members volunteered to spread tsunami came. the skills and experience of the word about important topics, such as We hope you will enjoy reading about physiotherapists to negotiate the road exercise as a key to good health, during our some of these initiatives in the Annual from illness to function. National Physiotherapy BackWeek, Review – and to stakeholders who, like us, As we look back now, we can see that the which takes place in September every year, see the need for a national understanding of physiotherapy profession, unbeknownst and whenever the opportunity arises. the critical nature of movement and exercise to any of us, was busy preparing itself for We are especially eager to reach out to as the foundation of health, we issue a warm a then-unimagined future – although communities which may be less resourced invitation to talk to us about how we can we were just doing what we always do: and have less access to information. Social work with you to reach more people. 4

Bloemfontein: National National District Hospital The Physiotherapy Department at National District Hospital targeted the out-patient departments Physiotherapy of Gateway Clinic, Tshepong, Oncology and Casualty. They also targeted Vulamasango High School, focusing on the grade 8 and BackWeek grade 9 pupils. Jacquiline Lebeko-Motsetse For decades, the second week in September was known as and Katleho Mokoena included ‘BackWeek’, a term still often used as affectionate shorthand. The information on back care, kinetic range of work and interventions engaged in by physiotherapists has handling (for example, how to carry expanded – today, physiotherapists can be found in a wide range of school bags) and exercises. settings like multidisciplinary ICU teams, supporting national sports If attendees answered test questions correctly or showed the exercise teams, helping parents cope with pre-term babies as they grow, or correctly they got a prize – such as a giving aquatic therapy to patients with many different conditions. skipping rope, of course!

ut National Physiotherapy Week Lady Brand Dihlabeng Regional Hospital continues to be a time of outreach – Lady Brand physiotherapists The Physiotherapy Department at Binto schools, rural communities, Zellmaré Pretorius and Nilo Terblanche Dihlabeng Regional Hospital hosted shopping malls, anywhere physio- visited agricultural company OVK’s a Three Minute Fitness Challenge with therapists can provide information that will headquarters on 6 September 2019. Their cycling (distance), step climbing and squats help people in need. In 2019, the theme was presentation focused on the benefits of (repetitions) and balancing (time). Staff, ‘Brain Breaks’ – taking short breaks from ‘Brain Breaks’ and exercise in the workplace. patients, and visitors enjoyed participating. work or school lessons to do a quick burst They introduced a few fun mental activities The Physiotherapy department held an of physical activity, which has been shown to stimulate innovation and creativity Open Day on 18 September for Lumka to benefit brain function. The SASP ran a and some active brain breaks including Khulekani Nhlabathi Secondary School competition for the best videos showing yoga poses and short two-minute exercise and Bethlehem Combined School Brain Break activities at schools, which regimes. Posture and ergonomics at the desk as part of a Hospital Health Education garnered some enthusiastic responses. were also addressed. Campaign. The idea was to expose learners

FREE STATE

Alicia Granzier reports: During National Physiotherapy BackWeek 2019, both public sector and private sector physiotherapists across the Free State worked hard at creating awareness about the benefit of physical activity, back and joint care, as well as promoting our profession and its relevance in the current health care system. LADY BRAND Some of their targeted audiences included schools, hospital staff, hospital patients, hospital visitors, old age homes, students as well as some local businesses. Each event or presentation was filled with creative and fun activities – skipping ropes, provided by the SASP Head Office, were at the heart of the fun at almost every event, as well as information about the value of ‘Brain Breaks’: short bursts of physical activity on the job. 5

to different careers available in hospital NORTH GAUTENG settings through guided tours. PROVINCE The students were welcomed with skipping ropes at the Physiotherapy The highlights for 2019 were the excellent Department. The Physiotherapists told the community outreach projects during learners about the different conditions that National Physiotherapy BackWeek, in they treat, modalities that are used as well as which public sector members presented the criteria to apply to study physiotherapy. great initiatives promoting physiotherapy. Various private practices also reached Kroonstad out to their local communities. The SASP Lize Relling and her colleague Izaan merchandise was a hit. “My appreciation presented an ergonomics training session to all the physiotherapists who made for all staff members at Netcare Kroon an effort, especially to theTshwane Hospital. District Physiotherapy and the 1 Military Physiotherapy teams for Virginia their great projects,” says chair Martin Natasha Correia at Katleho District van Heerden. Hospital made two display areas at the hospital admission area and in the rehabilitation department. Information from did talks about chronic pain and the importance of with local business Pioneer Foods on back physical activity in the different age groups care and ergonomics at work. was provided, with also pamphlets about At Victoria Hospital a community chronic pain. service physio created a jingle about Skipping ropes were handed out to chronic pain which was shared on social hospital staff and patients to encourage media. The hospital physiotherapists dared physical activity. physios in other to do a ‘vosho’ dance challenge (vosho is a dance involving squatting and kicking). At Neesie Knight Hospital physiotherapists did talks about back care with hospital staff. St Patricks Physiotherapy team set up a stall in the hospital to answer questions from staff, and presented a talk to waiting outpatients on back care. The physiotherapistsCloete Joubert and Jess Jardine set up a series of brain DIHLABENG breaks and obstacle course challenges for REGIONAL the staff outdoors, who loved this activity. HOSPITAL Port Alfred’s physio team promoted the profession at a wellness event. physio Nando EASTERN CAPE Stuurman set up multiple challenges and Brain Breaks, including a ‘vosho dance Physiotherapists spoke to 80 challenge’ for staff; she had the staff on their children regarding Brain Breaks and feet, loving it. She also did two talks at local physiotherapy during two school visits. schools on Brain Breaks.

PUBLIC SECTOR ACTIVITIES MPUMALANGA Cecilia Makhiwane Hospital en- Public Sector couraged teachers at two local schools to Amajuba Memorial Hospital participate in the Brain Break competition. Staff nurses and cleaners were educated They taught teachers ways to incorporate during lunch break time on useful info such fun Brain Breaks when learners become as: disruptive in the classroom, and held • Good lifting techniques exercise classes for staff. • Healthy postural habits Seanakgotso Makamole and team • Importance of exercise 6

FREE STATE

Trompsburg, Edenburg, Philippolis, Springfontein Takaneng Bridge, University and Reddersburg of the Free State Campus Elsa du Plessis is a community service physiotherapist working in the Xhariep Marketing material provided by the District, Free State, responsible for physiotherapy services to the communities of SASP was handed out and students Trompsburg, Edenburg, Philippolis, Springfontein and Reddersburg. and staff members took part in During National Physiotherapy Week 2019, Elsa visited all these towns, including skipping rope activities. “Everyone five schools in Trompsburg and Edenburg, an old age home, and the Luncheon involved showed great enthusiasm Club in Trompsburg. Informative sessions on kinetic handling and back care, health and enjoyed it very much,” says promotion, education and the importance and benefits of exercise were given. Edith Maritz.

• Sports and physical activity for Tips on how to sneak in exercise during the Embhuleni Hospital children to boost mental sharpness day, easy to do exercises and stretches were Along with Brain Break posters and • Back stretches given. recommended exercise and work safety for • Skipping ropes, balls, pens and back care. Physiotherapists also spoke to pamphlets were given to staff. Carolina Hospital parents about Brain Breaks; parents were Physiotherapists compiled back care given toys that would facilitate physical play Amersfort Stimulation Centre pamphlets on back care for office workers with their children. Children with various neurological and people who lift heavy objects at work in disorders and developmental delays were the hospital. Witbank Hospital engaged in play therapy, with lots of Staff were given info on how to prevent Physiotherapists spoke to eMalahleniFM participation, laughter and fun. backpain, the importance of good radio station about preventing health ergonomics in the office, and they were problems in children, covering issues Bethal Hospital encouraged to take Brain Breaks at least such as the use of walking rings, positive The physiotherapy department informed twice a day. effects of weight bearing, playing outside staff members about the importance of Cleaning staff were shown simple (highlighting indigenous games for Brain Breaks throughout the working day. exercises to help with back pain. Heritage Month), correct use of back packs 7 and the effects of using gadgets like cell Standerton Hospital patients were offered a goodie bag if they phones on neck posture. Standerton Physiotherapy participated in a training circuit including Department spoke to staff at an old age an obstacle course. This involved planks, Ermelo Hospital home about transfers and proper lifting heavy lifting, skipping and breathing Physiotherapists targeted staff with techniques, leaving a booklet on different techniques while doing a bridge. information about caring for their backs lifting and transfer techniques which Members at the Dullstroom Gym and avoiding back pain. They went into included a home exercise programme. chased away the cold and misty weather (it Ermelo Mall for a back-care awareness was six degrees!) with an exciting Pilates event – with prizes! PRIVATE SECTOR class incorporating the SASP beach balls. Dullstroom The class focused on strengthening the core Evander Hospital Physiotherapist Bianca Senekal from muscles, flexibility, balance, proprioception Evander Hospital physiotherapists Bianca Senekal Physiotherapy gave a talk and correct breathing techniques while initiated a seven-day challenge with to children at the Dullstroom Education doing exercises. administrative staff in sedentary jobs. Staff Centre about ergonomics, posture and the Physiotherapy goodie bags filled with were given informative materials to guide value of exercising and regular Brain Breaks. merchandise like skipping ropes, beach balls and encourage them to be active employees The children engaged in lots of physical and pens were donated to the Dullstroom and take Brain Breaks. Before and after fun, including skipping competitions and Gym and Dullstroom Education Centre. questionnaires were used to see if the an animal movement challenge for Grade R active breaks had had a positive effect on children. Middelburg productivity at work. At Nkomati Nickel Mine clinic, Nurses were targeted with information about mechanisms of injury and injury prevention, correct posture, the importance of movement and how to incorporate exercise into their lives. A ‘Kids Back Week Class’ encouraged children to keep moving, maintain good posture and take breaks when doing schoolwork. This was a huge success and the kids enjoyed it thoroughly. Teachers noted that the kids were trying to implement what EASTERN they learned during the class at school. CAPE Thank you SASP for awesome animal exercise cards! A ‘Domestic Workers Back Class’ targeted workers whose manual work may cause pain-related syndromes, focusing on lifting and carrying techniques as well as encouraging movement out of the work environment. The ladies have now formed a weekly walking group. At Curro Nelspruit Primary School (Gr 1-4) and at Hoerskool Bergvlam in Activities and awareness programmes Nelspruit, pupils and personnel had a lot of for the staff were held daily. Throughout fun thinking about possible activities to do the week physiotherapists ran a yoga to wake their brains up again. They were the class and a series of challenges, taking Mpumalanga winners of the Brain Breaks the opportunity to hand out info to the competition. participants and give a quick overview Dascha school in Nelspruit , unusually, of back care. The grand winner received did equine therapy at Jane Merber’s a blender sponsored by the SASP for practice. Some of the horses did a little attending all activities during the week. therapy of their own with the beach balls. Joy Scholl and Eden Smith Two separate talks were given at participated in a radio interview with Nelspruit Medi-clinic to staff on the Wildcoast FM on 3 September 2019 orthopaedic ward on regular exercise, and discussing the value of brain breaks. Joy to the porters and carers in surgical ward did an interview with Vukani FM, too. about proper lifting and transfer techniques. Jaslin Harmse and Joy did two Private practices in Nelspruit also got school talks on Brain Breaks. all their staff to be part of the Brain Breaks 8

movement – Stepmed Neurological Practice indulged in a Brain Breaks dance! At Retief’s Optometrist, office and clinical staff, wearing black to show support against gender based violence, were educated about movement and exercise, desk posture and basic exercises to relieve back pain. Teenage girls at The Middelburg Care Village learnt about the benefits of movement while studying and writing exams. Verona du Preez and Rehana Rawat MPUMALANGA visited the Highlands Primary School on 11 September 2019. The Grade RR to Grade 4 students had loads of fun trying Cosmos Life Hospital to imitate animal movements. wellness day Balls, skipping ropes and animal exercise Physios Wilma Erasmus, Moses cards were given to teachers with advice Mashimbyi, Manga Lukhele and regarding exercise with the children. Herschelle Sigudla from Witbank got 13 very excited, eager kids five and together to motivate staff at Life Cosmos six year olds from Hompie Kedompie hospital to be more active. Despite the cold School were introduced to physiotherapy weather the day was a big success. on a visit to Sanet Humphries’ practice and told about the importance of Brain Moletjie a day full of fun activities including exercises for patients at Sofaya, Lorraine Breaks. After an exercise session everyone a skipping rope challenge. and Callies clinics. got a gift pack including skipping rope, With custom-made T-shirts (below, A very successful presentation followed beach ball and exercise cards. centre), the Sekororo Physiotherapy for nearly 200 hospital and SASSA staff, as Their teacher sent us very positive Department did educational talks and well as home-based caregivers, and a fun- feedback, saying that even the parents walk and a sweaty aerobics class drew 40 now know the importance of Brain Breaks. hospital staff members. The Zebediela Hospital physiotherapy LIMPOPO section organised a seven-kilometre fun- walk and aerobics class for 71 participants Compiled by V du Plessis, M.J Selepe, with prizes and sponsorships from S Simpson, S Segoale, E Manning and Metropolitan Matlatle funeral parlour, MM Machoga Assupol, Liberty, Silver Oasis, Roots Butchery. The feedback was very corching heat did not deter passionate LIMPOPO positive! Sphysios in the Northern Limpopo Elizabeth Manning province from implementing successful Physiotherapy showed caregivers at campaigns for National Physiotherapy Macadamia Care Centre in Polokwane Backweek in 2019 and their reports give how to mobilise patients. a small glimpse into a kaleidoscope of The physiotherapists at activities. Malamulele Hospital took In the Waterberg District Ms the Brain Breaks challenge to Thamahanyane, Mr Munyai, Mr Nyavani Primary school, Hlungwani and Ms du Plessis offered with eight teachers and 200 talks and Brain Break exercise programmes learners from Grade 1 to to staff, high-risk maternity patients, and Grade 7 participating. patients in admissions, wellness section They went on to do health and outpatient departments. An exciting education and back care treasure hunt promoted activity and awareness at Nghezimani included education on kinetic handling. and Nthlaveni C clinics, Physios from WF Knobel Hospital Shingwedzi clinic, Xigalo gave rade 8 learners at Seokeng Senior clinic as well as Dakari Secondary School, Ceres village in Home Based clinic.

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Firm Membership Fees The Education Trust offers bursaries Due to COVID 19 NEC granted a to physiotherapy students (2nd, 3rd deferred payment of membership fees and 4th year) who require financial footing for members on the debit order option assistance. In 2020, SASP granted a for April, May and June 2020. There total of R210 000 to seven students; The SASP has a solid are two repayment options: to EFT the additionally the Education Trust financial foundation outstanding instalments by November provided one student with a bursary of 2020 or to include the amount in the R30 000. The Education Trust held its 2021 debit orders. AGM on 23 May 2020 and their Annual he SASP is accountable for Financial Statements were approved. utilising our membership fees in Marketing Ta responsible way to achieve the The Finance Committee has allowed the n General Fund goals of the society to the benefit of our Provincial Groups (GEC and Branches) The General Fund supports the strategic members and the communities we serve. to utilise up to 50% of their marketing objectives of the physiotherapy profession A significant achievement was to offer budget to assist public and private and can be accessed by NEC, SIGs or our members a 10% discount on their facilities in acquiring PPE for their members for once-off projects. A total 2020 membership fees if paid in full by health professionals. of R24 688.75 was approved for two 31 December 2019 via the Payfast system. applicants in 2020: Phila Sonke Wellness The finance team at Head Office (HO) Bulk Communications Initiative for cloth face masks and the is at full complement even though the n Bulk Email Gauteng Department of Health for 2020 year started with a change in our Prior to the nation-wide lockdown the wheelchair cushions to assist patients junior bookkeeper; we bid farewell to website bulk email system (via the Mail affected by spinal cord injuries patients. Muneiwa Radzilani in January 2020 and Chimp and Mandrill apps) was successfully welcomed Belinda Mabaso in February activated. Although this is a more costly n Special Projects 2020 to the position. method, it has proved invaluable in relaying The Special Project Fund supports non- The biggest challenge of 2020 thus far important information to our members in recurrent, non-operational expenses is the COVID-19 pandemic, the resultant an efficient and timely manner. which will benefit the physiotherapy nation-wide lockdown and the financial profession. These funds can be accessed impact on physiotherapists both in n Teleconferencing by any portfolio or committee for business and in their personal lives. The The SASP has upgraded their two projects exceeding R5 000, supported National Executive Committee (NEC) Zoom accounts, which allows up to by a clear motivation, quotation and and the finance committee and staff at 500 participants per meeting/course. budget for the event. There is currently Head office, have been adaptable and This upgrade will be covered under the R500 000 available in this fund. Four solution-orientated in finding ways to national budget. All groups/committees applications were approved, and benefit our members and the community have thus been able to host meetings, a combined total of R134750 was during this difficult time. The 2020 courses and their respective AGMs. expensed to the following applicants: activities have focused on the following: the Eastern Cape Provincial Group for the 2019 Financial Audit, Membership n Research Foundation and PPE for the paediatric ward at Dora Fees, Marketing, Bulk Communications, Education Trust Ngiza Hospital, the PMPG group for Research Foundation, Education Trust , The Research Foundation offers the translation of posters into different General Fund and Special Projects. bursaries to post-graduate students for languages, Physiofocus Business research which advances the profession Webinar and the Solidarity Fund for Financial Audit and provides physiotherapists with COVID-19 relief. The auditors conducted a remote audit for evidence based techniques. The SASP The SASP will continue to use the the 2019 financial year which went well; and several Special Interest Groups funds of the society responsibly however Nolands will need to inspect contribute to research in the different to support the vision and mission certain documents at HO before the audit fields of physiotherapy. The Research of the society to the benefit of its is signed off. A special thank you to our Foundation has granted funding to members and the communities in HO finance team for ensuring a smooth five out of six applicants in 2020, two which we serve. audit process whilst working remotely. Masters and three PHD recipients An unqualified audit was given. totalling R38 700 thus far. Stay safe. Stay healthy 10

Service delivery

Operations Manager ince I was appointed the National relationship between the Provincial Vanessa Boshoff reports Operations Manager in Dec 2017, Secretaries and the local SIG branches. SI have placed strong emphasis on Although this is still a work-in-progress, we from SASP Head Office improved Member Service Delivery. believe we have made a lot of ground and This theme continued throughout will keep expanding this service in the near 2019/2020, expanding the emphasis on future. service delivery to all departments at Head Members were offered two new Office and especially providing a one-stop membership categories when the service at our Provincial offices, so that we 2020 Membership opened in October are looking after the provincial committee 2019: Public Sector Physiotherapists but also our provincial SIG branches. and Academic (non-practising) We started facilitating a working physiotherapists. These membership 11

groups’ annual general meetings were run in 2020. Zoom was our go-to platform, and although it felt strange to conduct these courses and meetings online, it opened the possibilities of more members attending and also encouraged provinces to work together. We were able to increase categories will get focused service that Bookkeeper) and Futhi Mchunu (CPD the maximum participants on the Zoom ensures that their needs are met in the Administrator). platform from 100 to 500. Committees also future. With the prospect of national lockdown moved to online committee meetings and We also introduced a 10% discount to in March 2020, we were forced to explore this could possibly encourage volunteers members who registered and paid for 2020 alternatives for communicating with from outlying areas to volunteer for service membership before 31 December 2019, members. Development of a web-based on a local committee. using the Online Payment method. This bulk e-mail system commenced in Our staff have faced many ensured much-needed financial relief for January 2020 already and we were able to challenges: working from home, members as well as increased cash flow for launch this just as Head Office temporarily sometimes with children in the back- the SASP before the year end. The Financial closed its doors for the lockdown. The Web ground!, caring for family members with Committee also approved a 2.5% increase Bulk E-mail system made it possible to Covid-19, and adjusting to accessing SASP in membership, much lower than the send bulk e-mails remotely, ensuring that programmes remotely. They have, however, preceding years. Provincial and SIG committees were able accepted the changes with grace, and have At the beginning of 2020 we welcomed to communicate and encourage members always been willing to go the extra mile three new staff members to our Head during this challenging period. to ensure the works get done. I am proud Office team: Tammaryn Gerber (Private Lockdown also changed the way the to call them my work colleagues and true Sector Secretary), Belinda Mabaso (Junior SASP presented CPD courses and how ambassadors of the SASP. #IAMSASP 12

Services Programmes; Professor Luvhengo, the clinical Head: Department Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital (CMJAH) and Ms Gladys Bogoshi, the CEO of CMJAH. Together with a separate workshop on ‘Patient Safety’, these events raised the bar in terms of ethical behavior and accountability. Eight other CPD-accredited physiotherapy training events and two Provincial Learning and Teaching Physiotherapy Forums were held between April 2019 and March 2020. The Forums, Physiotherapy has positioned itself as an evidence-based with an attendance of 57 and 61 delegates profession, and the SASP is rigorous about ensuring that its respectively, included Research, Ethics and Quality Improvement presentations. members have opportunities to keep pace with developments University representatives (often the Heads of Department) were also in attendance and in research, to do research themselves, and to communicate facilitated insightful presentations. information of value to each other and to members of other For many years there’s been discussion about developing skills in pain management. medical professions and healthcare stakeholders. This finally came to fruition with the hosting of two Pain Workshops for public sector staff. Training began for physiotherapy EASTERN CAPE assistants (PTAs) on outcome measures and Frere Hospital early screening for children with neuro- Inservice and Outreach developmental difficulties, within their scope trainings for haemophilia of practice. – June through September In total 650 staff received training via 2019 the Gauteng Physio Capacity Building Joy Scholl is the only initiative. The overall feedback from trained haemophilia participants showed an average satisfaction physiotherapist in the rate of 96% for the year. Eastern Cape so she assists A tool was developed to capture in outreach and inservices, physiotherapists’ learning needs data which creating awareness and resulted in the development of a Provincial teaching nurses and Learning Needs Document, submitted physiotherapists how to to the SASP, Universities and the Provincial deal with patients with GAUTENG PUBLIC SECTOR Office for 2020 planning. haemophilia. 2019 saw a deliberate focus on capacity building The Monitoring and Evaluation sub- In-service talks by Joy with an emphasis on ‘building professionalism’. committee updated the electronic tool used to Scholl and Sr E Syce were The planning involved much networking at a collect and report on physiotherapy statistics held at Duncan Village Day high level which resulted in the introduction in Gauteng. This reflects the role of physio Hospital, Grey Hospital of two new events, namely an ethics workshop in conditions related to our National Burden and Gompo Empilweni, as for Community Service Physiotherapists of Disease, showing both the incidence and well as at Frere , and a two-day ‘Ethical Leadership’ course for prevalence of the most common conditions. Frere Medical Outpatients Physiotherapy and Allied managers. The line-up The new format allows for productivity Department, and for Frere of presenters included highly accomplished analysis at a provincial level with the potential Nurses in services at JT experts such as Dr Kwinda, the HPCSA to look at staff re-distribution within the hall, Frere Casualty and ombudsman; Professor Douglas Maleka, the Head cluster as needed. Emergency unit. of Physiotherapy Department at Sefako Makgatho 2019 was also the year in which the University; Dr Pekane, the Chief Director Gauteng Physio Committee successfully Gauteng Health Oral Health and Specialised negotiated with the HPCSA for the 13

Aquatics Physiotherapy Group (AQPG) he AQPG’s main task remains Tteaching physiotherapists how to practise aquatic physiotherapy effectively and safely. The Foundation courses provide a solid foundation as a springboard to further expertise in different directions.

2019 saw three Foundation Courses run in Worcester (March), followed by a one-day Paediatric Course in Bloemfontein (June) and Johannesburg (September). A new one-day Sport and Dance Course drew six attendees in Johannesburg. An in-house Foundation Course was also run in July 2019 at the Fair Cape Retirement estate by Mandy Thompson. A total of 47 physiotherapists took the courses and new presenters were mentored. Unfortunately, due to COVID19, the course by Johan Lambeck on ‘Water Specific Therapy’ planned for July this year has been postponed to 2021. An AQPG Foundation Course followed by a one-day course will be offered early next year around the country. The AQPG assisted in setting up aquatic training in the Paediatric Department of a hospital in Ireland. Shirley Eberlein represented the AQPG at the World Congress of Physical Therapy (WCPT) in Geneva in 2019. The AQPG keeps members posted with aquatic information from WCPT. The group is launching online CPD activities such as aquatic webinars and an online Journal Club.

Grandfather Clause to be applied, with the Pulmonology Department at Academic hospital Lymphedema clinic; allowing assistants to do their examinations Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic and quality of life following non-surgical for upgrading to Technician status. All Hospital in research involving the LUFT management of lymphedema: experience candidates had begun preparations for the respiratory device; the HIV and Bone in a South African setting. examinations scheduled for March/April Mineral Density study in collaboration Public Sector Physiotherapists presented 2020. with Wits University; investigation of a their clinical research at various forums in Physiotherapists in all settings are model for reduction of lower extremity 2019 including the Chris Hani Baragwanath encouraged to conduct ongoing clinical amputations in diabetic patients in Academic Hospital Research day, the Wits research and quality improvement a South African setting, investigation of Research Day and Alumni Research day, the projects. The research projects (not for quality of care and outcome of patients CPSI Congress, the HPCSA Congress and degree purposes) currently underway with osteoarthritis in a South African at the Ekhuruleni Research Day in 2019 and include: An international study on setting; the prevalence of lymphedema 2020. physio in chest trauma, in collaboration in patients with breast cancer treated at Gauteng Public Sector Physiotherapists with Wits University; collaboration Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg remain a “force to be reckoned with”. 14 PHYSIOFOCUS FREE STATE Facilitating professionals: Neuromusculoskeletal Lize Relling and her colleague Izaan coding workshops and ICD-10 Physiotherapy Group presented an ergonomics training Training (NMSPG) session for all staff members at Netcare Coding workshops and ICD-10 training, his group believes its biggest Kroon Hospital in Kroonstad. The in collaboration with Spesnet, was done in Tachievement in 2019 was a change session was said to be very informative the first quarter of 2020 in KZN, Western of name, a name that came with a 45- and memorable for all who attended. Cape, Gauteng and the Free State. An year history. online ICD-10 coding course via zoom Not an easy decision, the was held on 14 and 16 July 2020. Updated motivation to change from power point presentations on basic coding the Orthopaedic Manipulative NORTHERN CAPE and billing as well as ICD-10 coding have Physiotherapy Group (OMPTG) Dr Harry Surtie Hospital in Upington been made available on e-commerce to all to the Neuromuscularskeletal received their first few students from the the members. Physiotherapy Group (NMSPG) University of Stellenbosch for clinical was based on a global movement training. Students had a 6-week rotation in the hospital during which they throughout the OMT/Musculoskeletal Upskilling physiotherapists in each treated in- and out-patients with various (MSK) physiotherapy community lockdown phase motivating for ‘Reframing conditions as well as giving exercise PhysioFocus is offering ongoing support classes for patients with lower back pain. healthcare for chronic MSK pain lockdown to physiotherapists during the The student were under the supervision disorders’, and broader management phases of the COVID-19 pandemic based on research outcomes of Jean-Lu Jansen and Kerstin von in SA. Several zoom meetings were held Maltzahn. demonstrating: to assist in upskilling physios about • An increase in disability from the specific phase, education given, LBP, neck pain and shoulder pain documentation needed to be put in Orthopaedic Manipulative • Limited evidence for a structural place as well as the do’s and don’ts – also Therapy (OMT) Course approach (biomechanics, offering constant advice and support. surgery) PhysioFocus has been instrumental in 2019 was a defining year in the history • ‘Medicalisation’ of MSK pain assisting members with access to and of this special interest group. Some of disorders knowledge regarding legislation, practice the learning highlights are: • Increasing evidence for patient- and HR-management protocols as well as Negotiations were initiated with the centred care practical day-to-day running of practices University of the Witwatersrand to PG Diploma in • Low value of passive care in and treatment of patients via Facebook as collaborate on a OMT isolation well as the SASP website. • High value of active care • A world class congress was being • Value of self-care planned for August 2020 in Cape • Value of neurophysiological pain Telehealth document Town with two international speakers explanation PhysioFocus has been crucial in (but of course, plans were affected by OMT groups in Australia and the drafting of recent telehealth the pandemic) the UK have changed their name documentation and has offered ongoing • The OMT Course was run to Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy support and advice regarding telehealth successfully in three provinces: Australia (MPA) and the during this time as it is a completely new KwaZulu-Natal, South Gauteng and Musculoskeletal Association of platform for the healthcare profession. the Eastern Cape. Chartered Physiotherapists (MACP). PhysioFocus has also been in numerous It was the first time the OMT The scientific journal Manual Therapy discussions with funders regarding the course had been presented in changed its name to Musculoskeletal billing for telehealth and the recognition the Eastern Cape since 2013. 25 Science and Practice in 2017. of codes. candidates from all over the Eastern Members were consulted through Cape enrolled for a life-changing an opinion poll, and then voted in July and very busy 2019. For the Eastern 2019, approving the new name, the Cape this is a huge achievement, as Comprehensive financial Neuromusculoskeletal Physiotherapy the province does not have a medical assistance document Group (NMSPG). school, which makes logistics a ThePractice Management group The NMSPG is confident that this challenge. Local lecturers Bev Bolton. assembled a financial assistance document, name change has aligned us with Bridey-Lee Momberg and Cobus containing all means of assistance available current world trends in the field of Breytenbach were joined by Western to physiotherapy practices during the physiotherapy. Cape lecturers Ina Diener, Kerry COVID-19 pandemic. Grierson and Marcelle Pienaar. 15 OMT: 2019 courses 16

I would just like to say thank you for taking Connecting with part in our Special Prem Day party we host yearly. It was so awesome to have you and the physiotherapy team there. community Not only did the children thoroughly enjoy the games and the competitions, but the staff The physiotherapy profession in South Africa does an and parents balancing skills were also tested. extraordinary amount of outreach to serve local communities, We once again thank you from the bottom of our hearts. from fundraising for people in need of assistive devices, Pat Muller, NICU/PICU Unit Manager, Life St. George’s Hospital to encouraging healthy exercise among school learners to providing roadside treatment for athletes at major events Physiotherapy is becoming an increasing vital role in the NICU team in South Arica, such as the Comrades Marathon. both for early detection of neurological abnormalities in the neonate and for early intervention. EASTERN CAPE account for nearly 1 million deaths each year Every year Life St. Georges Hospital in World Prematurity Day: (UNICEF). Without a major push to reduce Port Elizabeth celebrates World Prematurity Life St Georges – 17 November these deaths, we will not reach the global Day. This year we had the privilege of being orn Too Soon: Providing the right goal endorsed by 193 countries to end all a part of this day. We used the opportunity care, at the right time, in the right preventable newborn and child deaths by to create some fun games incorporating our Bplace. 2030. knowledge of movement and coordination. Every year, 15 million babies are born SASP Eastern Cape was represented by With the help of SASP and specifically prematurely – more than one in ten of all Liesel Els (Paeds Special Interest Group) our Eastern Cape Secretary Marion babies around the world. World Prematurity and Svenje Duffield, as well as Deidre Dawson, we were able to give each child a Day is a key moment to focus global attention Steyn, Pelvic and Women’s Health and goodie bag with an inflatable ball, skipping on a leading cause of child deaths under age Chamozé Snyders, with Marion Dawson rope, frisbee, yo-yo as well as information 5: complications from preterm birth, which assisting with arrangements. on developmental milestones, game ideas for coordination and physiotherapy. We also had some prizes to give to children who participated in our mini competitions throughout the day, where we challenged the children to races such as bunny hopping, duck walking and hopping on one leg. The day was a huge success. It was so emotional to see some of our patients who started out at well under 1 kg with little chance of survival taking part in some of the races and thriving. We were blessed to give of our time and resources, and we hope to do it all again next year. – Liesel Els and Svenje Duffield

Straight out of university WORLD Young community service physiotherapists PREMATURITY (commservs) who have just qualified DAY arrive at their first posts with fresh eyes and new ideas. Often they see needs and are eager to help. TheWishlist Project is a strategic initiative for the Eastern Cape Province branch of the SASP. At the 2019 CommServ induction and welcoming meetings the committee learned of challenges the commservs face in their clinics. These range from gaps in equipment (crutches, walking frames, wheelchairs and the like) to basic 17

branch who went above and beyond to such as CVA, TBI and many others. fulfill our wishes; we are so grateful for The Mabandla Rehab clinic is a very the investment and care that they showed well-run clinic and functions as a section of listening to our challenges and addressing the Laetitia Bam Community Health them. Centre, offering patients for both individual – Melissa Reynolds and group therapy. Throughout this year they ran a CP Clinic which was started by the Empilweni TB Hospital gym commserv physiotherapist. An amputation The SASP Eastern Cape visited the support group was also started in 2018. Empilweni TB Hospital gym on 10 October The clinic offers wheelchair users assessment, 2019 and were welcomed by matron M seating and maintenance of devices. COMMSERV Strydom as well as Riette Steenekamp, a The physios work alongside home based DONATIONS very passionate commserv who had been at carers to reach patients who are unable to the hospital gym since January. access the clinic or rehab centre. Riette made a huge difference at the A community development project was clinic during the year, according to the started at the rehab clinic, planting and Matron. She has a clear vision of what she selling vegetables from the vegetable garden is proposing to implement at the clinic in on the premises. future, as she has applied for a permanent The therapists at Mabandla Rehab position at the clinic. include: Riette raised a concern about a shortage • Senior physiotherapist – Shivvon Jacobs of standing frames to treat TB-Spine • Community service physiotherapist – patients and TB-Meningitis patients, as Robyn Kleintjes needs such as linen, towels, bean bags and well as wheelchairs. The hospital does • Occupational therapist – Jade Jarvis arnica oil. not have a budget for the physiotherapy • Speech therapist – Nonkazimulo The Eastern Cape Committee and Sub- department; the waiting period for Mthembu branch in East London leapt into action wheelchairs is too long and negatively and published a Wishlist in the monthly affects the patient’s quality of life. PUBLIC SECTOR newsletter; this triggered a very positive Heleen Lombard, physiotherapist at Frere Hospital response from members in the private Zwide clinic, indicated that they have As a public sector hospital with a large sector, who have generously donated an international programme to source catchment area, Frere is an important and towards the project. wheelchairs and will work together to create influential healthcare hub. Judy Scholl Donations were handed over to three an opportunity to assist. reports that the hospital’s physiotherapy clinics, and the programme is ongoing, Donations were received with great department did extensive outreach work. working closely with commservs to remove excitement, and the provincial branch made barriers they face in treating patients. plans to spend its Mandela Day 67 minutes Haemophilia Amazing Race 2020 painting the gym. On 19 June 2019 the physio department Zwide Clinic “I want to truly thank the Eastern Cape hosted a haemophilia ‘amazing race’ at Frere The SASP branch visited Zwide clinic on SASP branch for the generous donations to Hospital, with cryptic clues and all! Two 15 October 2019, and was welcomed by Empilweni TB Hospital physiotherapy gym. people with haemophilia assisted at the commserv Melissa Reynolds, Sister The equipment will be well looked after and event and both gave a short talk about life in charge Mretho and Heleen Lombard go a long way in helping our patients.” with haemophilia and their challenges and (Production level physiotherapist/permanent – Riette Steenekamp successes staff), as well as Shannon Stirrup (commserv occupational therapist). CANSA relay for life Zwide clinic is an extremely well- Four Physios from Buffalo City braved run clinic, and the rehabilitation team storms to attend the CANSA relay for life do outreaches to Algoa Park and on the 9-10 of March 2019. The group Kwazakehle day hospitals. raised R1600 for CANSA. The area allocated to the multi- disciplinary rehabilitation team is very World Downs Syndrome small; the professionalism with which Awareness Day they deal with the day to day challenges is Mabandla Rehab Centre Shannen Chetty from Mthatha Hospital incredible. This is an out-patient facility which treats joined the Frere hospital physio team by The matron indicated that the adult and paediatric conditions and creating awareness on social media, around government department has recognised the manages a variety of conditions such as sub- the theme ‘ROCK your socks’ for Down need for a bigger space. acute orthopedics, amputees, stable medical Syndrome awareness day. Thank you to the Eastern Cape SASP and surgical cases, neurological conditions Physios wore mismatched socks to get 18

staff and patients talking and asking about FREE STATE the reason for wearing different socks International Day of Persons to stimulate conversation around Down with Disabilities Syndrome. The National Museum in Bloemfontein celebrated the United Nations International World TB Day Day of Persons with Disabilities with two Physios from and Frere Hos- key activities: on 22 November 2019 they pital created awareness with the 2019 theme held a Special Day of Awareness, Sensitivity of ‘It’s time’. Lovely pictures were up-loaded Training and Motivation, and on 3 and shared on social media platforms. December 2019 (the formal International Day of Persons with Disabilities) they Crazy Socks for Docs – provided guides and free access for persons June 2019 with disabilities and accompanying persons. World Haemophilia Day – 10 physio staff participated in the Crazy During the Awareness, Sensitivity Training April 2019 Socks for Doc campaign, to talk about the and Motivation programme on 22 November, mental health of medical practitioners. Physios at Frere Hospital gave out various speakers presented on a variety of This started conversations in the hospital, pamphlets to 65 cars as they entered topics to an audience of 100 guests. as people stopped and stared; the physios the hospital premises, as well as to 50 The Special day provided a rare opportunity explained they were wearing crazy socks to patients and staff who walked through the for role-players working with persons highlight the stress affecting doctors, the pedestrian gates. with disabilities to share information, suicide stats for this profession, and that Staff and patients participated in experiences, and needs with a diverse they need support just like everyone else. three different social media challenges audience representing the private, NGO Carel Du Toit school – May 2019 with the hashtags #caughtredhanded and government sector. One of the many #redtiechallenge #Hemophilia #WHD2019: highlights was a joint contribution by Frans the red tie challenge, the ‘caught red- Kleinhans (FA Kleinhans Orthotics and handed’ challenge (paint a nail on your Prosthetics) and physiotherapists Nelleke hand with red nail polish and post on social Krog (the Free State’s new Pain Management media) and finally posting pictures with the representative) and Magda Wessels. This haemophilia banner to spread awareness. 30-minute presentation, which made use of practical demonstrations (by actual patients) and videos, took the audience on a Physiotherapists handed out biscuits and prosthesis journey, including the process of sandwiches to over 200 patients in the how prosthetics are customised for specific For one of the few schools in the Eastern hospital . needs, as well as the role of physiotherapists Cape that caters for 19 hearing-impaired The Physiotherapy Department collected in assisting patients to adapt to life with a children, the SASP province organised ‘Tins for Tummies’ to hand over to an prosthesis and, later on, even to participate a donation of eggs, peanut butter and NGO helping those in need –122 tins in total. in competitive sport with a prosthesis. The margarine as they are an NGO and depend The physio team also collected socks, presentation also provided an overview of mostly on donations. “The children were so slippers and beanies for the older patients in sport disciplines and the categories in which happy to have visitors. All they wanted was the wards. persons with disabilities can participate, as love and hugs and someone to play with. We They secured a sponsor for boxes of well as the role the Free State Sports Council have identified Carel Du Toit as one of our biscuits to be handed over to patients in the for Persons with Disabilities plays in this areas to support more regularly in the future wards from Value Logistics. process. This fitted well within the theme as they are very close to Frere and our hearts.” Physiotherapists sponsored four loaves of chosen by the United Nations for the 2019 Mandela Day – July 2019 bread and jam and butter for sandwiches for International Day of Persons with Disabilities the patients as well. that highlighted “sport as a powerful enabler of peace NORTHERN CAPE and sustainable A community service physiotherapist at development Dr Harry Surtie Hospital, Louise de Jonge, through the held a disability sports day featuring table empowerment tennis and rugby at one of the local primary of persons with schools. She invited a wheelchair rugby team disabilities”. from Bloemfontein called the Mustangs, OASIS (centre for people with disabilities) Dr Nico Avenant and people from the community could enter (National Museum, teams to play rugby against the Mustangs. Bloemfontein) 19 MPUMALANGA The Pelvic and Women’s Health Physiotherapy Highveld District Exercise class at Lowveld Physiotherapist Brittany Faduk Botanical Gardens Group (PWHPG): represented the SASP at the Cambridge SASP co-operated with Praise Moves The pelvic floor Academy Inter-house Athletics Days Nelspruit to promote the benefits of regular on 17-18 January 2019, offering exercises and stretching to the general physiotherapy services to learners public. The event included an exercise class he Pelvic and Women’s Health competing in both track and field in the Lowveld Botanical gardens presented Physiotherapy Group (PWHPG) T events. They received assessment by Annelize Ober-meyer (Praise Moves), had a most eventful 2019. Achievements and treatment for acute injuries, as and physiotherapist Rolene Schoonraad was ranged from publications in scientific well as education regarding the role given a chance to chat about exercise as part journals as well as commercial magazines of Physiotherapy in sport injury of a healthy lifestyle. to raising awareness, presentations management. at international Urogynaecological The Inter-High Athletics of Highveld conferences, and the name change of the district was held at Ligbron High Kaapsehoop Marathon group to be inclusive of all genders across School in Ermelo on 23 February. A This annual Comrades qualifier race, the lifespan. gazebo was set up with treatment areas organised by Nelspruit Marathon club was However, the highlight would most manned by local physiotherapists from attended by two local physios, who focused on definitely have been the Men’s Health Ermelo and surrounding areas, offering proper stretching techniques, offered massages Matters awareness campaign to raise injury treatment and advice on injury and strapping to runners after the race, and a awareness and sensitivity to the needs prevention. ‘Recovery Zone’ for tired athletes. of men suffering from incontinence – specifically post-prostatectomy. The PWHPG identified and promoted Mosaiek/Stropieland Golfday SABC careers Expo bins suitable for men to dispose of There was a physiotherapy stall on A stall was set up in Riverside Mall in incontinence pads. The campaign the 18th hole at this combined pre- Nelspruit, where the SABC had their Career was launched at a fun evening at the primary schools golf day. The theme expo space for Gr 9-12 pupils. The SASP Rockwood Theatre in Pretoria. was ‘Back to School’; the Physio Tee’s were given the chance to address learners on Guests included patients, the public, theme was the ‘PT-class’, getting golfers physiotherapy as a profession, where they can medical practitioners and managers of to do activities like a 30 second plank, study physiotherapy and answer questions. hospital groups and malls. 30 seconds of rope skipping, or 30 The stall drew many feet, and a number of Throughout the campaign, companies, second stretches – loads of fun. learners engaged in one-on-one chats. hospital groups and malls showed their support for the project by installing these bins for male incontinence pads in their SABC Career bathrooms. A couple of TV appearances Exhibition and radio interviews by the PWHPG August 2019 Group Executive Committee on the topic Judy Scholl represented of men’s health and incontinence resulted. the public sector at the Two men’s health physiotherapists Nelson Mandela Bay were appointed to the Prostate Cancer SABC school exhibition. Foundation’s Academic and Scientific and spoke with learners board as a result of this campaign. about physio as a career as well as working in the public sector. NELSON NORTH GAUTENG MANDELA BAY, A highlight of the year was being able to SCHAUDERVILLE attend the SABC Careers Day initiative at short notice, says chair Martin van Heerden. Which was held over three days at the Menlyn Park Shopping Centre. “We were able to promote physiotherapy as a career to many Gr 11 and Gr 12 pupils who had never heard about it. This was a brilliant initiative to be involved in and I hope we managed to inspire many scholars to consider physiotherapy.” 20

hosted a stand yearly since 2017. Staff and students provide health promotion and prevention advice specifically related to sport and work place ergonomics, injury prevention and rehabilitation as well as mini neuromusculoskeletal assessments for staff visiting the stand. Staff get involved in the activities (plank, push-ups, sit ups, etc.) arranged by the physiotherapists and compete for small prizes (promotional items sponsored by the WC SASP branch). This is usually lots of fun. We also normally have a lucky draw for prizes sponsored by Hi Tech Therapy.

SOUTH GAUTENG s WESTERN CAPE Chair Heather Talbot says South Gauteng Paediatric Special Interest Group Province has supported and participated (SIG) in the Sunflower Fund’s fundraising In 2019, the Paediatric SIG was an advocate event, the Everest Challenge, since 2014, for movement and good health in support of to raise much-needed funds for the South the Western Cape governments initiative on African Bone Marrow Registry. wellness (known as WoW). Twelve teams competed in the 2019 The government launched the Western challenge on 24 August 2019. The aim of Cape on Wellness campaign to equip the the challenge is to simulate an ascent of Mt public with knowledge and insight into their Everest (8850 m) by completing 170 laps of personal health. Fun, free activities on public Johannesburg’s well-known Westcliff stairs. awareness days promote physical activity. South Gauteng Province stepped up to the On 28 September 2019, Zara Marthinus challenge, entering a team and providing represented the Paediatrics SIG, a voluntary physiotherapy service for manning the stand and participating in the competitors. Ten teams managed to the community-driven WoW event held at complete the challenge within the allocated Red Cross Memorial Hospital. The SASP time of 15 hours. partnered with WoW to set up activities The South Gauteng Province is proud of and promoted the profession on the fields in its team’s achievement of finishing in fifth front of the hospital. position and collectively raising R28 704 Zara’s joyful personality and energy was for the fund. evident as she interacted with the public and engaged with their questions. Both young and old were seen playing hop-scotch and kicking the balls. The stand was able to promote paediatric physiotherapy creating an opportunity for parents to be made aware of our services. Overall, it was a sunny, sweaty day full of laughter and lifestyle changes.

Supporting University of the Western Cape (UWC) Staff The Big Walk Wellness Day 2019 The event is a fun walk of 7km in September, The UWC Staff Wellness Day Initiative is an supported by the Mossel Bay municipality annual initiative organized by the Human as part of the annual Sports Festival. The Resource and Employment Relations Southern Cape area branch sponsored Departments at UWC. The event caters bottled water for participants, as well as for all staff from the different faculties and some lucky draw prizes in the form of SASP is a day filled with exercise, relaxation and branded skipping ropes and sports bottles. fun. Activities include a fun walk, human Despite the inclement weather, the SASP foosball, cricket, tug of war and much more. members and families got some fun exercise The Physiotherapy Department has packaged as a vocational event! 21

Outeniqua Wheelchair Challenge (OCC) SASPFS COMMUNITY PROJECT In September’s OCC, there were 463 competitors, over a hundred in the SASPFS Paint Project for The Thalita Cumi Centre in competitive 10, 21 and 42km race. Nelson Mandela Day 2019 Bloemfontein provides safe, temporary, Zimbabwe was represented by 3 As NV Scarfe wrote, “All play is associated immediate alternative shelter and care for competitors and Ghana by 1. Physiotherapy with intense thought activity and rapid children suffering from abuse and neglect. played a big role on the day, sponsoring intellectual growth. The highest form of On the morning of 18 July 2019, the drawstring bags with the SASP logo for research is essentially play.” physiotherapy department of Pelonomi all competitors. In blue T-shirts with the Through play children get to explore Hospital and some members of the SASP logo, UCT 4th year students and their environment, improve their gross and SASPFS committee re-painted all the some local physios helped by pushing fine motor skills and most of all have fun. playground equipment. After a long day wheelchair competitors in the 5km fun race. The Physiotherapy Department of and some hard work, there was a beautiful The physios attended to competitors with Pelonomi Hospital in Bloemfontein playground for the little ones to enjoy. niggles after their race. This wheelchair and the SASPFS joined forces on The SASPFS sponsored all the paint Challenge is a life changing experience and Nelson Mandela Day 2019 to paint the and equipment needed as well as helping it is privilege to be involved as a physio. playground at the Thalita Cumi Centre. with the painting on the day. The Southern Cape was fortunate to be able to contribute SASP branded beach balls to a ‘Balls not Bullets’ project in Mitchell’s Plain.

Back-2-School Box Project 2018/2019 The SASPFS Community outreach project during the year of 2018/2019 was to collect stationary so less privileged children could get a head start on the 2019 school year. The public and colleagues donated a huge variety of stationary such as colouring books, crayons, pencils, erasers, scissors, glue-sticks, pencil cases and even lunch boxes. On Tuesday 8 January 2019 the SASPFS Committee members made the donation at Koot Niemann Primary School, the day before the arrival of the new grade one pupils. Koot Niemann Primary Teachers and SASPFS Committee BACK-2- SCHOOL BOX Diaper Bank – Helping PROJECT our elderly in 2019 The focus in this 2019 project was on collecting adult incontinence wear for elderly community members for whom these are essential but costly day-to-day items. Donations were collected throughout the year by various local physiotherapists and physiotherapy practices, filling the diaper bank at the SASPFS Office. The diaper donations were delivered in early December 2019 to Athalia Out-reach, says physiotherapist Zirkia van Zyl. From the left: Ans Coetzee (Manager of DIAPER BANK Athalia Outreach), Alicia Granzier, Zirkia van Zyl and Rizelle Bierman 22

National Rehabilitation Conference – August 2019 SASP was a sponsor of the National Rehabilitation Conference organised by UCT Department of Health Sciences.

Pain Management Physiotherapy Group 2 November 2019 was the PainSA Academy’s Awareness Day in Cape Town. The Pain Management Physiotherapy group (PMPG) represented physiotherapy and the SASP. These events are attended by many health professionals and the PMPG is the only non-pharmacological discipline present.

NeuroMusculoskeletal Special Interest Group In 2019 the Western Cape NMSPG installed jungle gyms at two schools, Sivuyile Nurrudin Educare and Red Cross Radio Fundraiser Kalkfontein Daycare Centre as part part September 2019 of the NMSPG (then, OMPTG) National Social Responsibility project. Public Relations Officer for the Western Cape, Annemarie Steyn, and a Paediatric SIG branch member, Zara Marthinus, were OVERBERG AREA BRANCH present at the Red Cross Radio Fundraiser at the Red Cross Memorial Children’s Hospital. The Western Cape GEC and WoW educated Kensington Home for the the public on physical activity and healthy Aged – October 2019 habits. SASP representatives shared some On Friday 4 October the branch paid information on the SASP with the mayor of a visit to the Kensington Home for Cape Town, Dan Plato. the Aged, home to 94 aged residents who are cared for by a number of staff members (caregivers, nurses and a nursing sister and a centre manager with his admin staff). It is a non-profit welfare organisation which depends on donations from various sources. After a tour, the group interacted with the residents, playing ball and getting those limbs moving, evoking much laughter. Treats and blankets were handed out.

Dr Ina Diener (past SASP president) presented a well attended and extremely well received lecture to the residents and health professionals at Onrus Manor about ‘Balance’. 23

Movement for Whiteriver Primary Cycling club: The Whiteriver Primary Cycling club was started by local Whiteriver physiotherapist Soretha Pelser, and during Movement Good Health for Health day her practice used promotional balls for a training Every year, Movement for Good Health Day programme. Soretha presented a talk about the importance and benefits of regular exercise, proper warm-up and stretches. falls on 10 May. This is a day that’s very close to Talks were given at Nelspruit Pre-Primary Schools, Stropieland physiotherapists’ hearts – we know that movement and Ehmke Uiltjies, on taking care of our bodies from a young age should be top-of-mind when treating patients. with exercise, healthy habits and stretching. After the talk the pre- school kids took part in a fun activity day.

here are very few conditions that will not respond positively Mpumalanga to a little extra movement! This day gives us a chance to focus Witbank Public Hospital held a Movement For Good Health Ton encouraging movement rather than exercise – so often event for 15 members of the diabetic support group who attend patients in pain or debilitation, or people who have not done formal at the hospital. The physiotherapists demonstrated different exercise for years, cringe when exercise is prescribed. But adding exercises patients could do at home individually or in a group. a bit of movement – through play with children or dogs, through HA Grove Hospital in Belfast (under Elmarie Joubert/Stella Dimo taking stairs instead of lifts, adding a bit of house or garden work, and Busi Nkambule) organized a 5km Fun walk/run for the hospital that seems doable. staff and colleagues, to create awareness about the importance of So physiotherapists make a point of celebrating the role of regular exercise. It was a well-attended fun day. Prizes were handed movement in our health. out at the finish. Private Sector: Hanlie in Secunda promoted Mpumalanga Lowveld exercise for good health at a local Chronic Public Sector: The physiotherapists at pain support group. She presented a group Tinswalo Hospital had nine different class in exercises and the ladies used the sessions for Movement for Health day: promo material during the class. It was a A presentation and practical session good day. about warming up and stretches to 25 In Secunda the Physios also promoted Grades 1 and 2 netball girls at Buckridge Movement For Good Health Day at a local School. pre-primary school. Presenters talked about A presentation and practical session regular exercise and did fun activities with on importance of exercise to 40 Grade 6 beach balls and skipping ropes to get the kids learners at Mariepskop Primary school, to enjoy some activities. as well as one for 21 Grade 7 learners at Ndwandwe Primary school. Eastern Cape No fewer than 320 learners attended The Macarena challenge was conceived by a Movement for Health presentation Joy Scholl as an idea to get people to have at Beretta School, in four manageable fun and exercise at the same time. She then groups of 80 each. challenged other departments and hospitals Five Movement for Health to participate. This was a huge success with presentations, one at a men’s forum many public hospitals in the Eastern Cape community meeting which had 60 taking up the challenge. attendees, another for 12 elderly pastors (who also got advice on osteoarthritis); Free State three clinics, Murhotso, Brooklyn and ‘Fietsfees’ Hluvukani, were given Movement for The Tinktinkieland Pre-Primary school hosted Health presentations, attracting a total of their annual ‘Fietsfees’ on 8 May. 90 toddlers 95 people. aged between 4 and 6, and their siblings Rob Ferreira Hospital physiotherapists and friends, rode 1km on their bicycles on held talks in the outpatients department Tempe Military grounds and played games with patients about exercise in illness afterwards. The weather was very rainy prevention. initially, but cleared nicely. The SASPFS sponsored toys and marketing material for Private Sector: A talk was given to prizes for the children playing the games. the Curro Nelspruit Primary School The kids loved all the prizes and had a ball Hockey group about correct warm-up playing all the games promoting physical and stretching before sporting activities. activity. Tel: (011) 615-3170 Fax: 086 559 8237 E-mail: [email protected] www.saphysio.co.za SASP Head Office Unit 4, Parade on Kloof Office Park, Bedfordview. PO Box 752378 Gardenview 2047