OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy (OT) helps individuals regain function and independence after injury, illness, or surgery, particularly when it comes to hand and upper limb rehabilitation. Whether you're dealing with a sports injury, arthritis, nerve damage, or repetitive strain (such as carrying a baby or working at a desk), OT can help restore movement, reduce pain, and improve overall function.
With a deep understanding of hand function and rehabilitation, Melanie brings expertise that's rarely available outside of hospital settings. Whether you need post-surgical rehab, relief from chronic pain, or a tailored treatment plan, she provides practical, hands-on solutions to get you back to doing what you love.
Meet our Occupational Therapist:
MELANIE LOTTER
Melanie is a hand therapy specialist with over 30 years of experience. She has worked in both government and private practice, rehabilitating a wide range of hand and upper limb conditions. After relocating to the Western Cape, she now offers expert, direct-access care, having previously run a successful practice in Johannesburg.
Melanie treats a wide range of conditions, including:
Sports Injuries – Common in climbers and other athletes
Degenerative Conditions – Including arthritis and joint deterioration
Nerve Injuries & Neurological Conditions – Stroke recovery, nerve damage, and related conditions
Repetitive Strain Injuries – From daily activities, desk work, or childcare
Traumatic Injuries & Post-Surgical Rehab – Including tendon repairs, fractures, and burn injuries
Congenital Hand Conditions
How can you benefit from Occupational Therapy?
Melanie uses a combination of evidence-based treatments to promote healing and restore function. Treatment includes:
Splinting – Custom-moulded braces for support, pain relief, and improved movement
Pressure Garments – Reducing swelling, managing scars, and controlling pain
Exercise & Rehabilitation – Strengthening, pain management, and graded return to movement
Nerve Recovery Therapy – Sensory re-education and desensitization for nerve injuries
Work & Home Assessments – Ergonomic adaptations to improve daily function
