My name is Francois Swanepoel and I am a certified Medical Orthotist Prosthetist.
Your orthopaedic needs is your most important priority. It is important to be aware who is in charge of your rehabilitation program and this is why we have added this section to our website.
I was born in Johannesburg in the late 1980’s and within 6 weeks from me settling in, my family relocated to a small farming community located in Zululand, KZN. I was fortunate enough that they took me along (tongue in cheek) as this was the best way I could spend my formative years. I completed both my primary – and secondary schooling in Vryheid, KZN and always applied myself in all activities best I could.
After school, not really having any direction in what I would like to become, I attended Law School at the University of Pretoria. During this period I experienced a series of hurdles and always felt something was missing. This led me to change the trajectory of where I was heading and by the grace of God I was introduced to the wonderful field of Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics.
As luck would have it I got accepted into the program and completed my National Diploma at the Tshwane Univeristy of Technology. During my studies, I worked part time in a very busy Pretoria based practice where I gained invaluable exposure to all fields of Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics. This continued on a full time basis for a few years until I had the privilege to take up a position as head clinical specialist at one of our main international supply companies, Össur South-Africa.
During this period I was responsible for their academic program in orthotics and prosthetic for Sub-Saharan Africa. This also afforded me the opportunity to share my knowledge with my peers, whether on a one on one basis or when I was invited to speak at one of our national congresses. I was also fortunate enough to travel the world and gain international exposure from renowned key opinion leaders in our industries, of which includes places like Asia, Europe, Scandinavia and Africa.
In 2019, at the age of 31, I decided to further my studies, completing a Bachelors of Technology in Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics. By now, being older and wiser, I managed to complete the program with distinction (Cum Laude) and I will always be grateful for the way this program has shaped my perception on treating patients, applying all treatment based on good, solid, evidence based practice and well researched methods.
How did Swanepoel Orthotics and Prosthetics come to be?
I have always had the desire to establish an orthotic and prosthetic practice that does not focus on volume, but rather on the quality of our outcomes. After being exposed to the majority of clinics both locally and internationally, I could implement elements that I found was favorable for optimal patient rehabilitation.
In my previous work experience, I have submerged myself in all facets of the industry with a solid clinical, academical and corporate background, being exposed to both sides of the profession treating patients with the whole picture in mind.
In my free time I love to travel, continually attending international congresses, sharpening up on international trends and latest technologies. I have also completed 4 Comrades Marathons and if time allows, I understand the importance of staying active.
I hope you will have a great experience at our practice and that we can serve as a significant milestone in your rehabilitation journey.
Yours in Health Care
Francois Swanepoel Medical Orthotist Prosthetist