As a physiotherapist, I am driven by a heartfelt connection to my patients. I have been fortunate enough to be able to live out my passion for people, on a daily basis through my work.
I believe in a patient-centred approach in assessing and managing the diverse mechanisms at play in an acute or chronic condition. I work closely with each patient to develop and deliver an appropriate and individualised intervention.
After completing my Bachelors (Hons) degree in Physiotherapy at the University of Cape Town in 2009, I gained valuable experience working in a variety of clinical areas at two of the largest teaching hospitals in Cape Town; Groote Schuur and Tygerberg hospital. This exposure to many different aspects of physiotherapy allowed my special interests to be formed and developed further.
I went on to complete my Masters degree in Physiotherapy at UCT, which focused on persistent pain in Osteoarthritis of the hip/knee joint. I made use of numerous opportunities to expand my expertise in the field of chronic pain which led me to graduate with a National Certificate in Pain Management through the Train Pain Academy.
From 2015 I shifted my attention to working in the private sector in a busy, well established in- and outpatient practice; treating chronic pain conditions, neuromuscular skeletal disorders, sports injuries, paediatrics and discovered another interest in managing oncology related pain. These significant years in clinical practice led me to open my own practice in Oude Westhof, Melissa Saw Physiotherapy, a therapeutic space where I endeavour to continue connecting with patients to add value, restore wellbeing and reduce suffering.
I have been a dedicated academic over the years, not just furthering my own knowledge and skills but being actively involved in teaching of others. I have taught as a clinical educator and lecturer at under- and postgraduate level for physiotherapy students at UCT and Stellenbosch University. Since 2017 I have been on the teaching faculty for the Train Pain Academy, which offers health professionals a postgraduate certificate in managing chronic pain.
In between clinical physiotherapy and educating others, I have presented at numerous accredited events, yielded poster and podium presentations at different international congresses and have published articles in scientific journals. If this finer detail interests you follow this link.
Besides time spent at work, my passion lies with my beautiful family. I am a wife and mom to two young children and strive to be the best version of myself for life with them.
Comprehensive assessment and treatment of a variety of complex pain conditions including; oncology-related chronic pain and fatigue, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), fibromyalgia, widespread pain disorders, chronic neck and back pain.
NMS conditions, orthopaedic rehabilitation and acute sporting injuries, including treatments such as dry needling, LASER therapy, TENS, ultrasound, and sports strapping. Pre and post orthopaedic/ surgical rehabilitation.
1-2 person exercise classes for pain, general fitness and well-being.
Focused on paediatric and adult respiratory conditions, including nebulisation and suctioning if required. Available for home visits.
Treatment of pregnancy related back pain/ SIJ pain, pre and post partum rehab/exercises.
Complications like mastitis, engorgement and cracked nipples. This encompasses ultrasound treatment to the breast and LASER to assist in healing of nipple wounds.
You can find my physiotherapy practice located here
Unit 5 Oude Westhof Medical Centre, 11 Van Riebeeckshof Road, Bellville, 7530
