Cape Arthritis and Rheumatology Cape Town

Cape Arthritis and Rheumatology: Expert Rheumatology Care in Cape Town

About Us

Cape Arthritis and Rheumatology, founded in 2015 by Dr Clive Pettipher, is a leading specialist centre in Cape Town. The practice focuses on treating arthritis, autoimmune disorders, fibromyalgia, gout, osteoporosis, and related pain conditions. The centre operates within the modern Busamed Hospital, situated in the tranquil Paardevlei estate. This setting, combined with high-quality medical care, helps patients recover comfortably and efficiently.

The practice uses a holistic approach, integrating the skills of a multidisciplinary team. The team includes a rheumatologist, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, a biokineticist, a dietitian, and dedicated radiology and pharmacy services. Additionally, the centre has access to top orthopaedic specialists when needed.

Dr Pettipher brings over 20 years of experience in rheumatology. He completed his specialist training at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Johannesburg. He later established a successful biologics clinic at Wilgeheuwel Hospital, treating over 200 patients with advanced therapies. Dr Pettipher also managed the South African Biologics Registry (SABIO) and served as a past president of the South African Rheumatism and Arthritis Association (SARAA).

Our Services

Cape Arthritis and Rheumatology offers a broad range of services to manage and treat rheumatological conditions:

• Specialist Rheumatology Care: Dr Pettipher provides expert diagnosis and treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), ankylosing spondylitis, and fibromyalgia. His extensive experience ensures patients receive accurate assessments and effective treatments.

• Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy: Therapy in Action offers functional rehabilitation services. Physiotherapists Mariet Smal and Susan Kleynhans specialise in neuro and orthopaedic rehabilitation. Occupational therapists Liezet Basson and Erika Schwabe focus on hand therapy, work-related injuries, and ergonomic assessments.

• Biokinetics and Rehabilitation: Dan Grobler Biokinetics and Blaauw and Partners Biokinetics provide tailored rehabilitation programmes. They focus on biomechanical issues, movement therapy, and the use of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES). This technology strengthens muscles without stressing the joints, benefiting many arthritis patients.

• Dietary and Nutritional Support: Dietitian Donnay Gallinetti offers advice on managing arthritis through diet. She helps patients maintain a healthy weight, understand the role of healthy fats, and evaluate supplements that may reduce symptoms.

• Musculoskeletal Imaging: Dr Pettipher performs ultrasound imaging of tendons and joints. This service enhances diagnostic accuracy and guides treatment decisions effectively.

• Research and Clinical Trials: The practice is involved in research on biological therapies. Dr Pettipher works with major pharmaceutical companies and contributes to clinical guidelines and international research publications.

Additional Information

Cape Arthritis and Rheumatology stands out for its dedication to research, education, and patient care. Dr Pettipher has published extensively, including on tuberculosis and rheumatoid arthritis management. His work on the South African algorithm for rheumatoid arthritis care highlights his commitment to setting national standards.

The practice also prioritises collaboration. The Therapy in Action team uses a combined approach to speed up recovery and reduce treatment costs. The biokinetics services led by Dan Grobler and the Blaauw team offer advanced rehabilitation techniques. Their expertise in hydrotherapy and NMES technology provides significant benefits for patients with mobility challenges.

The centre’s integrated approach ensures all aspects of a patient’s health are addressed. The team works together to create personalised treatment plans that promote healing and improve quality of life.