Every year in June, Men’s Health Month puts the focus on male health problems and encourages men and boys to take their wellbeing seriously.

It is a time to pay attention to their health as traditionally, due to cultural and other factors, men have been less likely than women to seek help early.

Nurture Health knows from its many years of professional experience that, as with most forms of physical rehabilitation, timely intervention is crucial. Prompt action following an accident, illness, or disability can significantly improve recovery time and long-term outcomes. It will make you stronger in the long term!

The right medical treatment can make all the difference – and this is where the structured, expert-led physical care offered at Nurture Health is so valuable.

At our extensive network of physical rehabilitation hospitals across South Africa, three of the most common reasons men are admitted are orthopaedic injuries, neurological conditions and cardiac recovery.

Orthopaedic injuries and surgeries

Men are more prone than women to injuries from physical work or sport, including fractures and joint problems that require surgical intervention such as a knee or hip replacement.

A serious accident or injury can happen at any stage of life, but the 31-45 year age group is the most commonly affected by a spinal injury. In addition, traumatic spinal cord injuries are more prevalent in men than women in South Africa.

At Nurture Health, a physiotherapist will be assigned to each patient as part of the holistic medical care offered. He or she will work with the patient to regain strength, movement and function.

This personalised plan, devised by a qualified team of healthcare specialists, supports recovery and reduces the chance of long-term disability.

Strokes and neurological conditions

There are approximately 150,000 strokes each year in South Africa, making it the second leading cause of death after HIV/AIDS. In addition, men tend to have their first stroke at a younger age than women.

Neurology and stroke recovery are therefore a major focus for Nurture Health.

We know that even a non-fatal stroke can leave lasting effects on movement, speech and memory, and this can be devastating for a formerly fit and active individual. This is where neurological rehabilitation — including cognitive rehabilitation and mental rehab — plays a vital role.

With the help of the multidisciplinary team, patients work toward independence and confidence in daily tasks. The treatment plan may include occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech therapy, depending on the individual’s needs. Each patient is unique, and needs to be treated as such.

Nurture Health also supports men living with chronic neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s or Multiple Sclerosis.

Heart attacks

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in South Africa, and men are more likely to die from this than women. The risk rises with age and by the time a man turns 60, one in three is likely to have a heart condition.

After a heart attack or cardiac event, rehabilitation may include a personalised exercise schedule, education about lifestyle changes, and mental health support.

Some patients need to move to a more heart-friendly diet, and a registered dietitian at Nurture Health will assess their dietary needs, offering expert guidance and adjustments to boost health and healing.

In addition to heart attacks, strokes also can require cardiovascular rehab to manage overall health.

Moving towards your goals

Nurture Health provides a full spectrum of care through a combination of acute care and referral to outpatient services.

The goal? Helping men return to work, sport or family life safely and confidently.

All our patients – male and female – receive tailored care that supports both their physical and emotional recovery. From rehabilitation equipment to home nursing options, each service is designed to meet the person where they are and take them where they want to be.

This Men’s Health Month, we encourage men — and the families and loved ones who care for them — to talk more openly about health.

Prevention, early detection and rehabilitation for men after illness or injury can change lives.

If you or a loved one need support, contact your nearest Nurture Health facility today.