Cheltenham Physiotherapist

What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a profession whose aim is to encourage and support the return to normal following illness, surgery, disease or trauma. It can be effective in the treatment of a range of muscle, joint and nerve conditions.

Physiotherapists use a wide range of techniques such as manual therapy and exercise prescription to maintain health for people of all ages, helping patients to manage pain and prevent disease.

We provide comprehensive assessments and treatments tailored to your exact needs. Your physio will look at your medical history and carry out a thorough physical examination to determine the best course of action.

The physiotherapy team in Cheltenham can help you with:

• Sports injuries and injury prevention
• Back and neck pain
• Musculoskeletal conditions, e.g. shoulder, hip and knee
• Post-surgical rehabilitation
• Osteoarthritis
• Vestibular conditions and headaches
• Chronic pain
• Exercise and conditioning plans
• Sports injury rehabilitation and prevention
• Manual therapy (mobilisations and manipulations)
• Sports massage
• Post operative management and rehabilitation
• Ergonomic assessments
• Podiatry

Pricing & appointment times

• Appointments available: Monday to Friday from 08:00 - 18:00
• Initial assessment: £65 non-member / £52 member (45 minutes)
• Follow up appointment: £40 non-member / £32 member (30 minutes)
• We are also approved by most major private medical insurers.

How are Nuffield Health different to other physiotherapy clinics?

• Nuffield Health Fitness & Wellbeing Gym members receive 20% discount off the cost of their physiotherapy treatment
• One month free gym membership available during your physiotherapy treatment
• All our clinicians are members of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy and are registered with the Health Professions Council

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Meet our physiotherapy team in Cheltenham

Matthew Piff - Integrated Clinical Services Manager

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• BSc Hons Physiotherapy
• BSc Hons Sports Science
• Health Professions Council
• Chartered Society of Physiotherapists
• MSc Advanced Manipulative Physiotherapy - In Progress

Since graduating in 2006 I have worked across both NHS and Private sectors, specialising in musculoskeletal physiotherapy. I have developed an interest in lower limb rehabilitation and spinal conditions.

I moved to Cheltenham Nuffield Health Hospital in December 2016, following physiotherapy management roles within Nuffield Health as part of the remote services team, Swindon Fitness and Wellbeing and Woking Hospital. I am dedicated to running a department that prides itself on clinical excellence and best practise. We pride ourselves on providing first class treatment and outcomes, enabling our clients to return to normal function quickly.

Alongside my managerial role, I maintain a high clinical case load of patients within our outpatients department.  I am also completing a Masters in Advanced Manipulative Physiotherapy at the University of Birmingham. This is challenging me to develop as a clinician, developing my knowledge, clinical skills and critical thinking. This is fulfilling my drive to both improve as manager and clinician to provide the best possible results for our clients.

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family and balance this with my passion for cycling and running.

Linda Roberts - Senior Physiotherapist

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• Grad Dip Physiotherapy
• Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
• Health Professions Council

After qualifying at St Thomas' Hospital London, I worked at St Bartholomews Hospital before moving to Oxford to the John Radcliffe Hospital and then the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, where I furthered my interest in orthopaedics.

I moved to Nuffield Health, Cheltenham Hospital, becoming Physiotherapy Manager in 2006 and Integrated Clinical Services Manager in 2010. In 2017 I left the management role and reverted to a part time purely clinical role as a senior physiotherapist on the inpatient team.

I have a high clinical commitment, working on the ward beginning the rehabilitation of patients after surgery. This can be anything from young sportsmen undergoing ligament reconstruction, to older patients with total joint replacements and includes gynaecological and general surgery. I am passionate about providing excellent inpatient care leading to safe discharge.

Kate Pilkington - Outpatient Clinical Lead Physiotherapist

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• BSc Physiotherapy
• APPI Pilates Instructor
• Acupuncture Foundation Course
• Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
• Health Professions Council
• Acupuncture Association for Chartered Physiotherapists
• Member of ACPIVR (Vestibular Rehabilitation Interest Group)

Since graduating from Southampton University in 2005, I have worked extensively in both the NHS and the private sector, including a large teaching trust in Gloucestershire. I have since developed my interest in ACL knee injuries and shoulder conditions.

I work closely with the spinal consultants to assist clients recover from back surgery or injury. I have completed my Pilates Instructor training with the Australian Physiotherapy & Pilates Institute (APPI) which can help develop greater body awareness and prevent re-injury.

I regularly use acupuncture and myofascial release techniques (releasing deep tissue tension) which therapies complement each other well. I also specialise in vestibular rehabilitation, which is the treatment of individuals who suffer from dizziness such as vertigo.

My treatment approach is very hands on and patient specific. I fully believe that in order to achieve your goals, understanding the condition and finding the right exercise programme for you is paramount.

Being a keen mountain biker and skier, I understand the importance enhancing performance and recovering from injury successfully.

Alongside the Integrated clinical services manager, I run the outpatient clinic, ensuring the physiotherapy team has up to date training and research to underpin our service.

Jodie Breach - Senior Physiotherapist

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• BSc Hons Physiotherapy
• Acupuncture Foundation Course
• Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
• Health Professions Council
• Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Acupuncture
• Member of ACPIVR (Vestibular Rehabilitation Interest Group)

Since graduating, I have worked in a variety of orthopaedic and musculoskeletal settings in initially NHS and then private sectors.

I developed a keen interest in foot and ankle problems since working with elite dance students at Elmhurst Ballet School where these injuries were common.

Since being at the Nuffield, I have therefore fostered a strong link with our foot and ankle consultants to facilitate the best possible care for our patients and enjoy developing the foot service with them further. I have post graduate training in lower limb biomechanics and orthotic provision to aid recovery if required.

I also have training in vestibular rehabilitation from completing "The Balance Course" at Southampton University. This is a specialist treatment for people suffering with vertigo and dizziness that is not offered by all physiotherapists.

Both Kate and I offer this treatment in our department and have a close relationship with our ENT consultants to provide the best treatment for you.

Julia Griffiths - Senior Physiotherapist

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• Grad Dip Physiotherapy
• Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
• Health Professions Council
• British Association of Hand Therapists (BAHT)

I have worked in both NHS and private settings since qualifying. Initially my interest was in trauma and orthopaedics working over the years to advanced level practitioner in orthopaedics within the NHS. Since working for Nuffield Health I have specialised in hand therapy gradually building up the service.

I am an active member of the local hand therapist liaison group and am working towards validation as a hand therapist by undertaking BAHT qualifications.

I also work for part of the week with inpatients following surgery such as hip and knee replacements, and gynaecological problems such as hysterectomy.

Jill Summerfield - Senior Physiotherapist

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• Grad Dip Physiotherapy
• Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
• Health Professions Council
• Association of Orthopaedic Chartered Physiotherapists

After several years of experience in different fields, I developed my passion for orthopaedic and trauma physiotherapy and rehabilitation.

I spent two years working at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital developing my skills and then settled into a role as a senior physiotherapist team leader on an orthopaedic and trauma unit.

I am interested in supported discharge planning and achieving excellent standards of inpatient care.

Jacqui Adams - Senior Physiotherapist

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• Chartered Physiotherapist (1979)
• Aquatherapist (Bath 1980)
• Chartered Society of Physiotherapists
• Health Professions Council
• Member of BSR/BHPR
• Member of Aquatic Therapy Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (ATACP)

My interest in Rheumatology was initiated very early in my career and has progressed as the necessity for early diagnosis and effective intervention through to progressive rehabilitation was evident.

I have been a member of the BSR and BHPR for many years attending conferences to keep abreast of the changes that have affected both the medical and physiotherapeutic treatment and possibilities for this cohort of patients.

My remit when asked to work at the Cheltenham Nuffield Hospital was to provide a physiotherapy service to the rheumatology patients and to bring awareness of early inflammatory arthritis to my peers to enable early diagnosis and effective treatment.

As new treatments keep patients in work, enable them to return to sporting activities and in some cases return to their previous normality, I feel it is essential that we provide the rehabilitation, joint protection advice and ergonomic assessments at the appropriate stages in the patient’s recovery.

My other passion is hydrotherapy which has been with me from my initial introduction as a student to this present day. I was fortunate enough to be trained on the six month hydrotherapy course at the Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases. I belong to the ATACP which keeps me up to date on the latest research and therapeutic techniques.

Hazel Ruijsenaars - Senior Physiotherapist

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• BSc Hons Physiotherapy
• Acupuncture Foundation Course
• PG Dip Sports Massage
• Pilates level 1
• Chartered Society of Physiotherapists
• Health Professions Council
• Member of BSR/BHPR
• Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Acupuncture

Following graduation in 2008, I chose to focus my career in musculoskeletal physiotherapy, as I enjoyed the challenge and variety it provided.

I have been fortunate enough to work in a variety of settings including both NHS and private, and with various elite athletes, including members of the GB Senior and Junior Water-ski Team, British University sport teams, professional Equestrian riders and as part of the medical team at the London 2012 Olympic Beach Volleyball Tournament.

I enjoy the rewards of seeing my patients return to their full fitness through tailored and functional treatment approaches, and have found that completing additional qualifications in both sports massage and acupuncture to have been very effective in developing my treatment techniques and further enabling clients to achieve their goals.

Stuart Fossella - Senior Physiotherapist

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• BSc Hons Physiotherapy
• BSc Hons Sports Science
• Chartered Society of Physiotherapists
• Health Professions Council
• Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Acupuncture

Since graduating I have worked in a variety of musculoskeletal out-patient & orthopaedic departments. Both in the NHS and private sector. I enjoy treating the acute sports injury and post operative conditions, right through to a functional return to everyday activity and competitive sport.

I have worked overseas in New Zealand in a ski resort treating both professional skiers, snowboarders as well as those who prefer a gentle cruise,  often managing injuries straight from the ‘ski fields’.

One of my main passions outside of spending time with my new young family is sport. When I get the time I enjoy running, cycling, football and snowboarding. For my sins I am an avid follower of Brighton & Hove Albion FC.

I have completed post graduate training in spinal manipulation, acupuncture and workstation ergonomics which is particularly useful for treating general back pain and injury. I am a keen cyclist and have undertaken a course in bike fitting & assessment.

I have a good working relationship with local orthopaedic surgeons and sports physicians if you happen to need the expertise of these professionals.

Kate Mitchell - Senior Physiotherapist

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy
• Post Graduate Certificate in Women's Health Physiotherapy
• Currently working towards Master’s Degree in Women’s Health Physiotherapy
• APPI Pilates instructor
• McKenzie Trained
• Chartered Society of Physiotherapists
• Health Professions Council

I graduated from the University of Southampton in 2007. I have worked both in the NHS and private sector. Although I am an experienced musculoskeletal physiotherapist, my real love is Women's Health and I am presently studying towards a Master’s degree at the University of Bradford. I am also an APPI Pilates Instructor.

I am a senior physiotherapist in the local NHS trust alongside working at Nuffield Health. I am experienced in musculoskeletal and all aspects of Women’s Health and male and female pelvic floor continence.

Laura Hale - Senior Physiotherapist

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy
• Chartered Society of Physiotherapists
• Health Professions Council

I graduated from the University of West of England Bsc (Hons) Physiotherapy in 2008 and started my professional career in the NHS, completing rotations in all areas of physiotherapy. I then went onto specialise in musculoskeletal physiotherapy and hand therapy before recently joined the Nuffield Health team full time. I have undertaken post graduate training in Kinesiology taping, BAHT level 1, McKenzie A and B to name a few.

I have a very patient approach to treatment and utilise a variety of techniques in my practice including manual mobilisation, manipulation, soft tissue mobilisation and myofascial release, taping and exercise prescription/rehab.

I have a great sporting passion especially rugby, and have worked for both amateur and semi-professional teams over the last 6 years, as well as playing rugby myself!

Emma Ralston

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• BSc (hons) Physiotherapy
• CSP
• HCPC
• McKenzie trained

I gained a wealth of experience after graduating from the University of the West of England through working for the local NHS hospital trust where I completed my core rotations in a range of clinical specialities. These included orthopaedics, stroke rehabilitation and respiratory before settling into my preferred specialist area of musculoskeletal outpatients. During this time I also developed an interest in sports injuries through working privately with various rugby teams both locally and abroad.

More recently I prefer lower limb rehabilitation and I have particular interest in helping patients with knee problems. I like to use a variety of treatment techniques and believe that the key to ensuring patients achieve their goals is by using a combination of hands on methods alongside a specifically tailored exercise programme. As well as musculoskeletal physiotherapy I am also trained in vestibular rehabilitation.

Louise Robbins

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy
• PGCert in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education
• Currently working towards MSc Professional Development
• APPI Pilates level 1 and 2
• Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
• Health and Care Professions Council
• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy

Since graduating from the University of Southampton in 2007 I have worked in the NHS and private settings within Gloucestershire and surrounding areas. I am an experienced musculoskeletal physiotherapist, and enjoy treating all conditions/problems using a range of treatment techniques (including manual therapy, mobilisation, soft tissue massage, exercise therapy, advice and education).

Alongside working at Nuffield Health I am a Senior Lecturer for the BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy and BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation courses at the University of the West of England, Bristol.

My background in teaching means that I am keen to ensure that you are fully informed of the cause of your condition/problem, that you understand how and when it will improve, and also measures you can take to prevent the recurrence of symptoms.

Francesca Carpenter

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• BSc Hons Physiotherapy
• HCPC
• Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapist Member

To date, I have extensive experience working as a Physiotherapist within both the NHS and private sector.  I have a particular interest in sporting injuries, especially of the knee and ankle, employing an array of individualised rehabilitation techniques to optimize physical health and fitness. Assisting others to achieve their personal goals and helping them to return to their desired level of activity remains the focus of my practice.

Ed Voss

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• MSc Physiotherapy
• APPI Pilates Instructor
• Acupuncture Foundation Course
• Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
• Health Care Professions Council
• Association of Chartered Physiotherapist in Sport
• Acupuncture Association for Chartered Physiotherapists

I have worked for several years in the NHS and in private practice in New Zealand prior to starting here at the Nuffield. During this time I have developed a particular interest in shoulder injuries but enjoy treating the huge variety of conditions that we see here on a day to day basis.

My approach tends to be hands on but I also think that people need to understand and take ownership of their conditions, so education plays a significant role in how I treat people. I like to take a holistic approach in order to enable people to achieve their own personal goals once symptoms are understood and under control.

Having spent two years as head physiotherapist at Old Patesians RFC in Cheltenham and being a keen golfer myself I understand the importance of a successful recovery to allow people to return to their chosen activities.

Emma Price - Podiatrist

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• BSc (Hons)
• BSc Podiatry (Hons)
• MChS
• HCPC

I am a graduate of the Birmingham School of Podiatry, where I attained a First Class Honours degree and bring with me experience in both routine Chiropody and general food health, as well as foot biomechanics and more complex podiatry.

I have worked with Cheltenham Town FC, Aston Villa Football Club and Leicester Tigers Rugby club and has a particular interest in orthotic and exercise prescription for sports – related foot disorders.

In 2012-3 I worked with Great Britain athletes, providing pitch-side foot care and taping and strapping.

Podiatrist services offered:

• Biomechanical disorders of the feet - (Fallen Arches, Poor Biomechanics, Joint Dysfunction)
• Sports Injuries - Achilles tendinosis, Plantar fasciitis, Turf toe, Shin splints, Runner’s knee, Ankle instability
• Diabetic foot checks and footwear advice
• Rheumatoid Arthritis Foot Care.

Luis De Sousa - Sports Massage Therapist

Qualifications & Professional Memberships:

• BTEC Level 4 Sports Massage Therapy Diploma
• BTEC Level 4 Holisitc Massage Therapy Diploma

I am one of the newest members of the team, where I can offer a full variety of dedicated services. Since receiving my diploma, I have worked in variety of clinics including a busy London health clinic as well as with semi and professional rugby players, MMA fighters and a professional British body builder.

I feel that my treatment style is very organic and I incorporate muscle energy, neuromuscular and soft tissue release techniques into my massages. I believe that sports massage applied with these range of procedures correctly can help with injury recovery as well as its prevention which can be applied to anyone who receives my treatment.

I like to keep up to date with all of the latest research in his field and regularly attends CPD courses. I have a real passion for exercise and nutrition and I am currently a student of martial arts and enjoy Brazilian jiu-jitsu.