Off Nicol, Sandton Aquatic Therapy & Biokinetics

This month we explore our second Johannesburg practice, our Sandton aquatic therapy and biokinetics services based at Off Nicol Health, Wellness and Rehab. The Off Nicol Centre was established by two well-known physiotherapists: Tanya Bell-Jenje and Lindsay Harris. Together they set out to create a multidisciplinary centre of excellence. Fish and Field Biokineticists have been a part of this multidisciplinary team since 2013.

Sandton Aquatic Therapy

At the Off Nicol practice, we focus solely on aquatherapy biokinetics. This is offered through both individual sessions and group classes.  Aquatic Therapy, also known as aquatherapy or hydrotherapy, is a specialized form of physical therapy that utilizes the properties of water to facilitate therapeutic interventions and promote healing.

It utilizes the unique properties of water to facilitate rehabilitation, pain management, and functional improvement for individuals with various musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiovascular conditions. The buoyancy of water reduces the weight-bearing load on the body, enabling individuals with limited mobility or weight-bearing restrictions to engage in exercises with less joint stress. The hydrostatic pressure of water aids in reducing swelling and edema while enhancing circulation. Water resistance provides muscle activation and strength training. Aquatic therapy is beneficial for conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, orthopedic injuries, and neurological disorders. It offers a safe, effective, and enjoyable approach to promoting physical well-being and enhancing the overall quality of life under the guidance of a trained professional… that’s us!

Our Facilities at Off Nicol

Sandton Aquatic Therapy Pool at Off Nicol

Our facilities at Off Nicol revolve around our inviting pool. Beautifully located in the garden, surrounded by glass doors with a view of the Sandton skyline, this practice offers a sense of peace in a bustling city. Fuelled by solar power, our pool is kept at a warm temperature ideal for rehabilitation. This means the water is comfortable all year round. The pool at Off Nicol has three depths allowing for a range of rehabilitation and exercise modalities to be utilised. At the deep end, we focus on exercises that are completely non-weight-bearing. This is ideal for post-surgery rehabilitation or for running training (aqua jogging) for those of you who suffer from severe shin splints. At the shallow end, we progress to weight-bearing exercises, with extra balance support or extra resistance due to the water density. 

Accessibility

The pool facilities at Off Nicol Health and Wellness are designed with a strong emphasis on accessibility. To ensure easy entry, the pool features a handrail that extends alongside its length, providing reliable support and instilling confidence. The presence of shallow steps further enhances accessibility, allowing individuals to enter the pool with ease.

We are committed to providing equal opportunities for all individuals, including those with disabilities. As part of our dedication to accessibility, we offer a hoist chair specifically designed to facilitate the safe transportation of disabled patients in and out of the pool. This innovative piece of equipment simplifies the process by enabling smooth and secure transfers at the simple touch of a button.

Specialized Pool Equipment

Furthermore, our facility is equipped with a diverse range of pool equipment, which is instrumental in supporting individuals in their journey toward achieving various rehabilitation goals. These tools are thoughtfully selected to enhance therapy sessions and assist patients in their individualized rehabilitation programs.

Among the pool equipment available, you will find aids designed to improve strength, mobility, balance, and coordination. Examples may include resistance bands, water dumbbells, and aquatic ankle weights. These tools effectively augment aquatic exercises, providing increased resistance and intensity to challenge and strengthen muscles.

Additionally, we provide flotation devices such as pool noodles, water belts, and aquatic cuffs. These aids offer buoyancy and support, allowing individuals to comfortably engage in therapeutic activities while minimizing the impact on joints and muscles. They promote balance and stability, enabling patients to focus on their rehabilitation goals with confidence and reduced risk of injury.

Furthermore, we recognize the importance of versatility in rehabilitation, and as such, our pool equipment selection also encompasses items like kickboards, aquatic balls, and floating platforms. These versatile tools offer opportunities for targeted exercises, range of motion movements, and functional training, aiding in the improvement of flexibility, endurance, and overall physical fitness.

Our dedicated team of biokineticists will expertly guide you through the utilization of these pool equipment, ensuring proper technique and maximizing the benefits of each tool in your rehabilitation journey. With the thoughtful integration of such tools, we strive to optimize the effectiveness of therapy sessions and support you in achieving your specific rehabilitation goals in the pool environment.

Group Classes at Off Nicol

Our group class offerings include General Conditioning, as well as Prenatal classes.

General Conditioning

A general conditioning aquatic group class is a structured exercise program conducted in a pool or aquatic environment, aimed at improving overall physical fitness and well-being. Participants engage in a variety of exercises targeting cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and endurance. The water environment provides low-impact support, reducing stress on joints and minimizing the risk of injury. Through the use of water resistance and buoyancy, the class enhances muscle activation and promotes cardiovascular health. With the guidance of an instructor, participants perform exercises such as water walking, jogging, and various movements using equipment like dumbbells and resistance bands. The class concludes with a cool-down phase consisting of gentle stretches. This enjoyable and inclusive form of exercise is suitable for individuals of all fitness levels and can lead to improved fitness, flexibility, and overall wellness.

PreNatal

Prenatal aquatic therapy group classes are specialized exercise programs designed for pregnant women to promote physical well-being and address the unique needs and challenges of pregnancy. These classes utilize the therapeutic properties of water to provide a safe and supportive environment for expectant mothers. In addition to the benefits offered in general conditioning aquatic classes, prenatal aquatic therapy group classes offer specific advantages for pregnant women. The buoyancy of water helps alleviate the added weight and pressure on joints and the spine, providing relief from discomfort and reducing swelling.

The gentle resistance of water enables safe and effective strengthening of muscles, particularly in the core and pelvic floor, which can help support the changing body during pregnancy and aid in labor and postpartum recovery. Aquatic therapy also promotes relaxation, relieves stress, and improves circulation, benefiting both the mother and the developing baby. By participating in these classes, pregnant women can experience improved physical fitness, reduced pain and discomfort, enhanced relaxation, and increased overall well-being throughout their pregnancy journey.

Class schedules can be viewed on our website at

Biokinetics

As biokineticists, our role in aquatic therapy involves assessing the client’s functional abilities, formulating appropriate treatment goals, and designing a comprehensive aquatic exercise program. We closely monitor the client’s progress, provide guidance and support during sessions, and adapt the program as needed to ensure optimal outcomes.

It is important to note that aquatic therapy is a highly specialized field that requires proper training, expertise, and knowledge of aquatic exercise principles and techniques. Biokineticists, in collaboration with other healthcare professionals, employ evidence-based practices to design individualized treatment plans, closely monitoring and adjusting interventions as needed.

A Multi-Disciplinary Approach

In the realm of healthcare, the adage “Many hands make light work” holds true. Adopting a multidisciplinary approach involves harnessing the power of multiple treatment modalities to optimize both health and rehabilitation outcomes. The specific nature of your condition and requirements will determine the most suitable healthcare practitioners and the appropriate timing for their involvement.

While Biokinetics employs exercise prescriptions to promote health and facilitate rehabilitation, we recognize that our role is just one piece of a larger puzzle. We are privileged to collaborate with an exceptional team of healthcare professionals at Off Nicol Health, Wellness, and Rehab. Together, we offer an extensive range of services encompassing AquaTherapy, Biokinetics, Creative Arts Therapy, Cupping Therapy, Dietitian expertise, General Practitioner services, Homeopathy, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Pilates instruction, Psychological support, and Sports Massage Therapy. Our collective efforts provide a holistic approach to health and wellness, ensuring that we can make referrals for additional treatments based on your progress and evolving needs.

You can find more information on the services offered at Off Nicol at

The Sky is the Limit

In conclusion, the breathtaking view of the Sandton skyline serves as a constant inspiration for our team, reinforcing the belief that “The sky is the limit.” However, it is through witnessing the remarkable rehabilitation journeys of our patients that we are reminded that the sky is no longer a boundary. Together with our dedicated patients, we persistently push beyond perceived limits, embracing the view of endless possibilities. With unwavering determination, we will continue to support and celebrate the incredible achievements of those on their path to recovery.

To find out more about how we can be of assistance to you, please contact us.

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