Rehabilitation & physiotherapy

Rehabilitation and physiotherapy: how to find a specialist for recovery

Updated 20 October 2026

Who does what

Rehabilitation is a team effort, and the job titles are often confused. A physiotherapist chooses exercises and trains movement, an occupational therapist teaches you to get back to daily life: dressing, cooking, using your hands. "Rehabilitation specialist" is a broader title for someone who runs the whole process. A masseur and a physical medicine doctor can also be part of the plan. If you don't know whom you need, describe your situation and the specialists will suggest their approach. If you specifically need massage, see massage.

When people look for rehabilitation

Typical cases: recovery after a stroke, an injury, a fracture or joint surgery, back pain, getting going again after a long period of immobility, and conditions in children. Sessions are planned according to the diagnosis and the doctor's advice, so first find out what the doctor allows and what is off limits. A good specialist sets goals, for example walking around the house with support, not just "feeling better", and tracks progress. Promises of a quick cure without an examination are a reason to be careful.

What to put in your request

• diagnosis or condition — for example, after a stroke, after a fracture, back pain;
• patient — age, whether they walk alone, whether a walker or wheelchair is needed;
• type of therapy — physiotherapy, occupational therapy, exercise therapy, massage;
• where — at home, in a clinic, online;
• number and frequency — say, 3 times a week for a month;
• when to start;
• city and area;
• qualification — experience with such patients, for example post-stroke;
• budget per session, if you want to share it.

Example: “I need a physiotherapist with occupational therapy for a 70-year-old man after a stroke, who walks with a walker. Sessions at home, 3 times a week for a month, starting next week. Pretoria. Experience with post-stroke patients preferred. Budget up to R 99 per session.”

How to compare offers

• How long a session lasts, and whether travel time is counted if the specialist comes to you.
• Whether there is an initial assessment and a written plan.
• Whether equipment is needed (balls, resistance bands, machines) and whether the specialist brings it.
• Whether the price is per session, per month or a package, and what happens if you miss one.
• Qualifications, courses, experience and reviews.

Don't change your treatment plan or medicines without a doctor. If sharp pain, dizziness or weakness appears during exercises, stop the session and see a doctor.

How it works on BlaBlaPrice

Instead of asking around for specialists, you leave one request. Specialists reply in the chat: session price, schedule, format, experience. The platform shows the best-value offer first, with reviews beside each. Specialists see their place among the others and often improve their terms. Your phone number stays hidden until you choose a specialist. Read more on the “How it works” page. For additional treatments, see medical services.