​Zandile ​Mthimunye

The Back Awareness Week has provided an opportunity to both Patients and staff members at Tshwane District Hospital to revisit and refresh health promotion and education around back care and back pain management.
The activities led by physiotherapy team also included interactive discussions in various section of the hospital about the impact of COVID-19 on mental health and how movement and exercise can help combat this.
Under the theme "Movement is Medicine", both patients and staff were encouraged to exercise regularly and to maintain healthy lifestyle.
Physiotherapy unit manager, Christy Venter said that movement and exercise is a great way to maintain good physical and mental health.
"Our bodies were created and designed to enjoy movement and exercise. There are several benefits of physical activity including weight control, improved sleeping pattern, promotes good immunity and can be a fun and a social activity."
"Exercise also promotes the release of endorphins or 'happy hormones' which make people feel better and happier, thereby combating and overcoming the challenges of mental health," added Venter.
Several departments within the hospital participated in the discussions and in a fun exercise dance routine.
Each participant received a leaflet summarising the most important concepts of the day. Some also walked away with prizes.
"I feel the exercise was fruitful as there were people who walked away committing to exercising on a regular basis," concluded Venter.​