If physiotherapy could be written into someone’s DNA, Marilize Stander would be the walking, talking proof.
From a young age, Marilize Stander was already in the thick of it … literally. When she started having chest physiotherapy at four years old, she was introduced to the fascinating world of healing through movement by a wonderful physio named Lida Godjin. And just like that, her path was set.
With zero doubts in her mind (because when you know, you know), she pursued her degree in physiotherapy, hustling both in the public and private sectors before opening her very own practice, Marilize Stander Physiotherapists, in 2018 in the small Northern Cape town of Kathu.
‘It was an amazing personal milestone as a solo practitioner when I opened my 100th patient file … I lost count after that,’ she laughs.
Fast forward, and you’ll find her running her practice in Helderkruin, helping the community with everything from back and neck pain to sinus conditions, sports injuries, and post-op rehab. As well as some fancy-sounding treatments like dry needling, electrotherapy, and strapping. And she even does home visits for the elderly (because sometimes, getting out of bed is the biggest hurdle of all) and treatment of injuries on duty.
‘The way that everything in our bodies is connected truly fascinates me. The body is designed in such a beautiful intricate way that we, as beings, can never fully understand it. My life mission is to be an instrument to help people cope better with their disease or injury by learning as much as I can about the human body.’
Speaking of movement… Marilize admits the biggest health issue at the moment is inactivity related to sedentary lifestyles. ‘Many people today have desk jobs, where they sit in front of the computer or laptop for many hours a day, leading to inactivity, obesity and painful necks and backs. Not to mention postural problems.’
She recommends getting up every 90 minutes. To stretch. Walk around. And sneak in as many steps as possible.
‘I find it very fulfilling when a patient comes into the practice with painful joints or muscles and afterwards is able to move better and knows how to manage the pain in his or her daily activities. It gives me such a wonderful sense of purpose to be able to help someone.’
And, Marilize practices what she preaches … mostly. ‘I have a love-hate relationship with running,’ she admits. With that said, taking quick runs or walks with her husband Christian and their two Jack Russells, Ulrich and Jinx (Kat the cat, naturally, stays home), is her go-to stress reliever. It’s all about the fresh air, the movement and an added bonus … the endorphins.
‘I will always recommend patients to choose a physical activity that they enjoy doing, and will be able to do, even on the days they are not feeling their best and try to do that activity a few times per week. Walking for example is a fantastic and free exercise that you can enjoy with your family, pets and friends and will not only help to improve cardiovascular fitness, but also to release emotional tension and stress.’
In fact, one of the biggest misconceptions she wants to bust is the idea that pain always equals something seriously wrong. She explains that pain is your body’s warning system, not necessarily a sign of severe disease or the need for surgery. In her practice, she doesn’t just focus on treating pain but on improving mobility … because a little movement can go a long way.
The best part? Physiotherapists are first-line practitioners, meaning that you do not need a referral letter from a doctor unless your medical aid specifically requires it.
Although Marilize claims to have seen it all, she admits her husband just always seems to invent new muscles to injure somehow. And sometimes an innovative problem requires an innovative solution, right? Which is why she revealed her secret weapon and top DIY therapy tool … a rolling pin. ‘It works very well to massage your calves,’ she laughs. ‘Plus, if you’re feeling lazy, you can always rope in a family member. They’ll have loads of fun too!’
When she’s not helping people get back on their feet (literally) Marilize loves soaking up the great outdoors. Hiking, swimming, gardening, and playing with her dogs make her the happiest. She’s also a bit of a musician, having played piano and violin since school, and still sneaks in a practice sesh or two when she can.
Her happy place … anywhere with the ocean, sunshine, and new places to explore. And it’s just so much better when her husband and biggest supporter is by her side. Together, they love spending time at home, firing up the braai, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.
Her ultimate goal, to never stop learning about the human body and how best to heal it.
With hands that heal, a heart full of passion, and a rolling pin in her arsenal, Marilize is living proof that movement truly is medicine!
Details: mstanderphysio.co.za
