Physio extends clinics to Collingwood

Tākaka physiotherapist Anél Baker has recently extended her service to include Collingwood, stepping in to fill the gap left by retiree Grant Watson (Wattie).

She will work Mondays in the clinic, situated to the left of Collingwood Area School’s main entrance.

Wattie served as a mentor for Anél and was a teacher of the McKenzie Method of physiotherapy.

“In terms of musculoskeletal physiotherapy, it has the most research behind it. It’s about encouraging self-management and looking more towards symptomatic and mechanical response. So, less pain and more movement,” explains Anél. Management programmes include assessing and asking clients what makes them feel better or worse, working to clarify their individual situation. Anél says she is usually very “hands off” initially, giving clients just one exercise to do towards achieving self-management.

Often problems arise due to repetitive movements or posture issues, but also from traumatic injuries. Lifestyle, along with all aspects of health and wellbeing, are considered as part of the assessment.

Anél is accredited in the McKenzie Method and also practises myofascial release, which she describes as more “hands on” and “a really nice relaxing experience” for the recipient.

If a person is restricted in their ability to move, she will assist, slowly progressing the amount of force needed to effect change. According to Anél, restricted movement mostly manifests “because we don’t move enough in all the ways the body can move”.

South African born and bred, Anél studied physiotherapy at Stellenbosch before moving to England where she lived and worked for 13 years as a cardio-respiratory physiotherapist. During that time, Anél studied musculoskeletal physiotherapy in preparation to move to New Zealand.

In 2013 she immigrated, intending to settle in Nelson where she attained work. However, she fell in love with Golden Bay when visiting to assess a client and quickly relocated with her family. Her son is now in Year 11 at Golden Bay High School.

Anél credits Wattie with having extensive experience and being “a great sounding board”, who helped her develop professionally. Having retired last December, he is now travelling around the country with his wife, who worked as a

“They really did a lot for physiotherapy. Now they can enjoy their retirement,” says Anél. “[His are] big boots to fill.” Anél is ACC accredited. Contact her on ph 021 053 4337.