Anne vd Merwe Physiotherapist

Anne vd Merwe Physiotherapist “Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire….” - Anynomous
I have a great passion for people and I believe my treatments reflect that.

Physiotherapy create a great way of interacting with people.

TESTIMONIAL TUESDAYS!!!
10/02/2026

TESTIMONIAL TUESDAYS!!!

Why Bones Need More Than WalkingBones stay strong when they’re challenged.To prevent bone loss or build new bone, they n...
09/02/2026

Why Bones Need More Than Walking

Bones stay strong when they’re challenged.
To prevent bone loss or build new bone, they need more force than everyday activities like normal walking.

How Much Force Do Bones Need?
Research shows bones respond when they feel about 3–4 times your body weight.

That sounds scary — but don’t worry!
❌ This does not mean lifting very heavy weights.
✅ It refers to the force your bones experience during certain movements.

How Much Force Do Activities Create?
• Walking: ~1 × body weight
• Jogging: ~2 × body weight
• Jumping or hopping: 4 × or more body weight

What Does This Mean for You?
• Walking is excellent for overall health, but on its own usually doesn’t build stronger bones
• Bone strength improves with short, safe bursts of higher load
• This may include:
– Small jumps or hops
– Step-downs or heel drops
– Resistance or strength training

Bottom line:
Bones need the right kind of load to stay strong. With safe, progressive exercise, we can give the skeleton the stimulus it needs to adapt and thrive.

Please feel free to contact us at info@annevdmerwe.co.za or on ⁨083 255 2319⁩

SAVE THE DATESports Taping CoursePlease save the date for an upcoming Sports Taping Course, presented by acqui McCord-Uy...
03/02/2026

SAVE THE DATE

Sports Taping Course

Please save the date for an upcoming Sports Taping Course, presented by acqui McCord-Uys.

Course overview will include:
•⁠ ⁠Theory and practical application of Dynamic, Kinesiology, Athletic & McConnell taping.
•⁠ ⁠Practical taping techniques covering regions from the ankle to the upper limb.

When: 27–28 March 2026

Times, course fee and booking details to follow shortly.

Where: Lasting Impressions Beauty Salon C/O Hazelwood Street &, 23 18th St, Menlo Park, Pretoria, 0081

CPD’s: CPDs: 16 CPD points (Level 1) - applied for

Contact: comm.growingminds@gmail.com or 083 255 2319

Happy Feet, Safer StepsKey Footwear Features Recommended by Health ProfessionalsFirm heel counter for stability and bala...
02/02/2026

Happy Feet, Safer Steps

Key Footwear Features Recommended by Health Professionals
Firm heel counter for stability and balance

- Non-slip, stable sole to reduce fall risk
- Good cushioning to absorb impact (not too soft)
- Wide, deep toe box to avoid pressure and foot pain
- Secure fastenings Velcro, laces or straps — (avoid slip-ons)
- Low, stable heel for better alignment and confidence when walking
- Lightweight but supportive design

✔ The right shoes can reduce pain, improve walking confidence, and lower the risk of falls.

Please feel free to contact us at info@annevdmerwe.co.za or on ⁨083 255 2319⁩

Happy 50th Birthday Anne van der Merwe! They say 50 is the new 30, but let’s be honest - your knees know the truth. Don’...
29/01/2026

Happy 50th Birthday Anne van der Merwe!

They say 50 is the new 30, but let’s be honest - your knees know the truth. Don’t worry, though - 50 looks fabulous on you! Just remember, wrinkles are proof of all the laughter you’ve had, and gray hair is the glitter of wisdom (or just stress from the rest of us). Here’s to rocking the next half-century like the legend you are!!!

Lots of love from all of us!

Ever Noticed Your Shoes Don’t Fit Like They Used To?As we get older, it’s normal for our feet to change gradually.The so...
27/01/2026

Ever Noticed Your Shoes Don’t Fit Like They Used To?

As we get older, it’s normal for our feet to change gradually.

The soft cushioning under the heel and ball of the foot can become less springy, meaning it absorbs impact less effectively. The tissues supporting the bones and joints also become less firm, which can allow the foot to spread, joints to feel stiffer, and the main arch to lower over time. As a result, many people notice their feet becoming wider, sometimes longer, with the front of the foot broadening and toes gradually changing shape, so shoes that once fit well may no longer feel as comfortable. The small muscles within the foot naturally lose some strength, and sensation in the soles of the feet may become less sensitive, which can affect balance and awareness of minor changes.

All these changes are common and expected, and with supportive footwear and regular foot care, most people can continue to stay active and mobile.

Look out for more practical tips on supporting your feet.

Please feel free to contact us at info@annevdmerwe.co.za or on ⁨083 255 2319⁩

Subject  line: Move or Decline: The Hidden Dangers of "Protecting" Your JointsBuild to moveYou've probably been told to ...
20/01/2026

Subject line: Move or Decline: The Hidden Dangers of "Protecting" Your Joints

Build to move

You've probably been told to "save your joints" by moving less, but this advice is outdated and wrong. Joints need movement to stay healthy. Muscles, tendons, and ligaments rely on activity to stay strong, and cartilage depends on motion to receive nutrients.

Instead of protecting your joints, avoiding activity can lead to stiffness, weakness, and pain. Decades of research show that strengthening, stretching, and controlled movement can reduce pain, improve stability, and preserve joint function.

So, don't let fear of pain hold you back. Movement is the real medicine for your joints. Share this with someone who's been told to "take it easy" and encourage them to get moving.

Reminder from Dr. Howard Luks

Please feel free to contact us at info@annevdmerwe.co.za or on ⁨083 255 2319⁩

Should you exercise when you’re still sore?Feeling sore after a workout is normal. It’s called delayed-onset muscle sore...
13/01/2026

Should you exercise when you’re still sore?

Feeling sore after a workout is normal. It’s called delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS), and unfortunately there’s no quick fix — time and rest are what really help it go away.

Some people try to “work through” soreness with light exercise, often called active recovery. This can feel helpful if soreness is mild, but it doesn’t work for everyone.

The key is how sore you are and how hard you exercise. Gentle movement is usually fine when soreness is mild. But if you’re very sore, pushing through a hard workout can make things worse, delay recovery, or even lead to injury.

Bottom line:
The more sore you feel, the more cautious you should be. Light movement can be okay, but heavy or intense exercise while very sore is usually not worth the risk.

Ready, Set, Go! 10 Physio-Recommended Tips for a Smooth ReturnReturning to Sport After the Holidays: 10 Essential Tips1....
06/01/2026

Ready, Set, Go! 10 Physio-Recommended Tips for a Smooth Return

Returning to Sport After the Holidays: 10 Essential Tips

1. Start slow (Progressive Overload): Reduce weights, reps, or distance initially, and gradually increase intensity to avoid exhaustion.

2. Prioritize rest: Ensure 7-9 hours of sleep each night, especially after workouts, to help your body recover.

3. Hydrate: Drink at least 2 litres of water daily and consider sports drinks during and after intense exercise.

4. Feed the machine: Focus on a balanced diet with lean proteins, complex carbs, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and veggies to replenish energy stores.

5. Warm-Up & Cool-Down: Include dynamic warm-ups and static stretches to prepare and aid recovery.

6. Find Accountability: Train with a friend, join a group, or find a partner to stay motivated and consistent.

7. Set Realistic Goals: Aim for small wins to build momentum and celebrate progress.

8. Listen to Your Body: Dial it back if you feel pain or excessive strain, and prioritize consistency over perfection.
9. Most important: Have fun! People are far more likely to stick with a programme of exercise if they actually enjoy doing it.
10. START!

Additionally, consider Cross-Training by mixing in activities like yoga or walking to build supporting muscles and improve flexibility without over-stressing primary sport muscles.

Please feel free to contact us at info@annevdmerwe.co.za or on ⁨083 255 2319⁩

We are closing 23 Decemberat 17:00 & reopening on 5 Jan 2026
10/12/2025

We are closing 23 Decemberat 17:00 & reopening on 5 Jan 2026

Testimonial Tuesdays!!!
09/12/2025

Testimonial Tuesdays!!!

Address

54 Henri Road, Eldoraigne
Pretoria
0057

Opening Hours

Monday 07:00 - 18:00
Tuesday 07:00 - 18:00
Wednesday 07:00 - 18:00
Thursday 07:00 - 18:00
Friday 07:00 - 18:00
Saturday 07:00 - 13:00

Telephone

083 255 2319

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