Special Spinal Rehab

About Us:

We are a group of physiotherapists and psychologists specialising in the non-operative care of spinal conditions. Our innovative approach incorporating a "bio-psycho-social" model allows us to cater to the diverse needs of our patient population. Hence, if you have back and neck pain that is that is either of a short duration or has not improved with general physiotherapy, chiropractic, osteopathy or even medical/surgical care, we may have something to offer you.

What makes Special Spinal Rehab so "Special"?

Special Spinal Rehab is a purpose built, state-of the art facility for the care of the spine. Our dedicated team of spinal physiotherapists and clinical psychologists have a special interest in treating spinal conditions. Real time webcam feed back, ultra-sound bio-feedback, a standing (open) MRI machine and a gymnasium are available in-house to aid with the diagnosis and treatment of your condition. Our "evidence-based" treatment approach lays a strong emphasis on biomechanics and movement behaviour complemented by specific manual techniques.

Sustainable: We aim to obtain an accurate diagnosis in order to provide you with sustainable solutions to managing your spinal problem.

Professional: We will provide you with a comprehensive and professional experience from start to finish.

Effective: Our commitment and contribution to the latest research ensures the most effective and up-to-date evidence based treatment.

Compassionate: We understand the toll that your spinal problem has taken on your work and lifestyle and will provide a compassionate treatment environment.

Innovative: Our biomechanical approach, selective use of manual therapy and utilization of cutting edge technology are at the forefront of spinal rehabilitation.

Assurance: We assure you of high quality non-operative treatment of your spinal problem.

Liaison: We will liaison with all your health care providers and insurance company to formulate and provide a timely and effective treatment plan.

Spinal Physiotherapy Program:

The initial consultation lasts for one hour and involves taking a thorough history, a full spinal examination and a review of all your scans. Following the review an accurate diagnosis is reached and the various treatment options are considered. Based on a shared decision making process, a management plan is formulated which incorporates a judicious combination of functional core strengthening exercises, movements strategies, specific manual therapy and acupuncture. The follow-up appointments are 30 minutes long and will follow the initial treatment plan and geared to return you to your pre-injury activity levels.

Spinal Cognitive Motor Relearning Program (SCMR)

This popular integrated program is designed to assist those who are struggling to return to work due to their spinal problem. Most people are not consciously aware of their movements and posture and as the name suggests, the program recognizes the importance of the MIND in movement disorders related to spinal pain and disability. The treatment aims to re-train and re-create a new system of spinal movements whilst controlling pain and improving function and is tailored to each individual's needs. State-of-the art technology such as video biofeedback, real-time ultrasound, and optical tracking are used to augment this re-learning process. Manual therapy interventions (mobilization, manipulation and massage) are used sparingly throughout to control symptoms. The program includes 30 minute one-to-one weekly sessions under the direct supervision of one of our highly trained physiotherapists and extends for 6 to 10 weeks.

Spinal Work Activities Program (SWAP)

This is an advanced program devised as an extension of the Spinal Cognitive Motor Relearning (SCMR) program with a specific focus on improving participation in the physically demanding activities of work, sports, or recreation. The various activities incorporated into this gym-based program are tailored to individual needs to ensure optimal results. In addition to retention of the learned movements taught in the SCMR program, these movements are introduced into a more demanding gym environment eventually leading to a successful return to work. Current motor control theories support the need to transfer skills to different environments to augment learning and retention of skills. The program incorporates 60 minute one-to-one weekly sessions under the direct supervision of one of our highly trained physiotherapists spanning 8 to 10 weeks. Patients will also be encouraged to undertake this program independently.

Integrated Management of Spinal Pain of Refractory Type (iSPORT)

This is our latest program designed for the management of chronic refractory spinal pain (pain that has not responded to surgical and/or non-surgical treatment). A two-pronged strategy is adopted involving intensive psychological input to tackle the psychological distress associated with chronic pain. This is supplemented with spinal physiotherapy aimed to address de-conditioning and to restore basic functions of daily living using a movement-based approach. The program runs as 12 integrated sessions of psychology and physiotherapy over a three month period.

Post-operative Rehabilitation

Physiotherapy plays an important role in optimizing surgical results in the lead up to surgery and during the recovery process. Enhancing your muscle condition and an understanding of good spinal mechanics can help to maximize post-operative outcomes. Our pre-operative consults includes a thorough history and physical examination to determine a baseline, important do's and don'ts for specific surgeries are outlined, collars or braces are fitted if required and the physical and recovery expectation are set for various stages in the post-operative period.

Our post operative consults are tailored to the individual's physical recovery and specific surgery. We are experts at managing patients who have undergone microdiscectomy, disc replacements, and fusion procedures in every region of the spine and understand the importance of the right exercises at the right time. Extensive spinal education is given and we will strategically guide you to ensure a maximal recovery.