Back and Neck Program

Suffering From Back or Neck Pain?

Use your medical aid benefits now.

Many South African medical aids fund a structured Back & Neck / Spinal Conservative Care programme that can start now. Book your assessment at Carline Swart Physiotherapy and see how you can benefit.

Book an Assessment

Do I Qualify?

Start by simply messaging your nearest practice to find out more

Algoa Park

Mill Park

Westering

What Is The Back and Neck Programme?

The back and neck programme is a physio-led, non-surgical rehabilitation plan for persistent back or neck pain. It typically includes a comprehensive assessment, education, supervised exercise, a home programme and progress tracking over about 3 to 16 weeks.

The goals are to reduce pain, restore function, and help you avoid unnecessary surgery.

Why Should I Act Now?

Enough Runway

A typical programme runs for several weeks. Starting in now gives you time for assessment, pre-authorisation and session scheduling using this year's benefits.

Benefit Year Timing

Many schemes fund from risk benefits once authorised (not day-to-day savings). Starting now helps you secure approval before benefit resets or year-end changes.

Beat The Rush

Year-end schedules fill up quickly. Booking now helps you stay consistent with rehab and avoid holiday disruptions.

Who Qualifies

Adults with ongoing back or neck pain (with or without leg or arm symptoms) may qualify after a clinical assessment. Some schemes use partner networks and require pre-authorisation. We guide you through the steps.

What's Typically Included

Comprehensive physio assessment and risk stratification
Individualised exercise therapy and supervised sessions
Education on pain, posture, movement and daily habits
Home exercise plan with regular progress reviews

(Exact inclusions depend on your medical aid plan and authorisation.)

Medical Aids That Offer A Neck and Back Programme

Discovery Health – Spinal Conservative Care Programme
GEMS – Chronic Back & Neck Rehabilitation (BNAP) via Workability
Bestmed – Back & Neck preventative programme
Sizwe Hosmed – Back & Neck Programme

Bonitas (incl. BonCap) – Back & Neck Programme via partner networks
Medihelp – DBC Back & Neck Programme
Polmed – Conservative Back & Neck Rehabilitation Programme

Note: Availability, authorisation and funding rules vary by option. Other employer or closed schemes may access similar DBC/Workability pathways. We will check your benefits for you.

Not On One Of These Medical Aids

You still have options:

Cash-based rehab packages: fixed-fee assessment plus structured session bundles
Hybrid funding: use remaining day-to-day, Gap options, or split sessions across year-end

Once-off consults: pain flare-up management, home plan and referral if needed

What To Expect At Caroline Swart Physiotherapists

Step 1: Assessment (45–60 min) – history, screening, movement tests, goals
Step 2: Programme setup – pre-authorisation (if required) and session plan
Step 3: Active rehab – supervised sessions and home programme with check-ins
Step 4: Graduation – prevention plan and long-term self-management

Will this use my medical savings?

Many schemes fund from risk once authorised. We confirm this with your plan.

Do I need a referral?

Some programmes or networks require pre-authorisation or a referral. We advise you.

How long does it take?

Programmes typically run 3 to 16 weeks depending on your assessment.

Will it help me avoid surgery?

Conservative, evidence-based care is the first line and often reduces the need for surgery.