BSc (Hons) Sport Science MSc Physiotherapy mCSP HCPC
Chartered Physiotherapist
Specialisms: Sports injuries, Post-op rehabilitation and Physio for older people
Physical movement can be taken for granted but has always been something that has given me great deal of pleasure and helped build confidence. Nevertheless I have also experienced how devastating it can be when an injury limits the things that you want or need to do. The best treatments that I received, were from practitioners who first listened then gave me clear and honest advice on what I needed to get me moving again. These personal experiences helped motivate me to become a physio. Now, when I solve a pain problem for someone, or help them to live life more fully again, that is very satisfying!
Since graduating, I have worked in the NHS for over 5 years. My roles have included being part of a crisis response team, supporting early-stage rehabilitation from injuries and operations, supporting people post-discharge in the community, and treating chronic musculoskeletal pain.
These experiences have taught me the value of building people’s confidence in their abilities. It has shown me just how important it is to share my knowledge and insights as a physio with my patients, so they have a clear idea of what to expect. This can involve using techniques to try to reduce a patient’s pain immediately, which helps to show them what might be possible and motivates them to do what is needed to reduce that pain more permanently.
My favourite gym exercise? I rate deadlifts very highly! They are a very functional and flexible exercise which gives you a lot of bang for your buck.
My ideal holiday would be a return to Japan to explore and enjoy the onsens (hot springs), or a trip to Sweden to eat delicious pastries and swim in the lakes.
Favourite foods? Hakata ramen somehow manages to satiate my hunger - I could never get sick of eating it. I also love baking banana breads, adding butter or Nutella for a treat. (I’m very generous with giving away slices, to stop me eating the whole loaf myself!)
Dog or cat person? We always had cats at home, and I love them. But I have always wanted a dog, just not had the time to look after one!
To keep active I do lots of exercise for my personal enjoyment and wellbeing. This includes running, yoga, gym and occasionally playing football.
When I’m not working, I like to go wild swimming at Hampstead Heath, meditate, read, and spend time with my friends – especially enjoying their delicious cooking!