About Janet
My Professional Journey
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I have had more than 30 years of experience working as a physiotherapist. During that time, I built up an extensive understanding of musculoskeletal and orthopaedic complaints and how to treat them effectively. I spent the first 8 years working largely in the NHS. In the early years I experienced specialities that would form my foundation. These included areas such as neurology, intensive care, rheumatology and a specialist shoulder unit
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I began to specialise in musculoskeletal medicine and orthopaedics from 1997 onwards; developing skills in treating all manner of complaints, from arthritic joints to sports injuries, spinal pain to occupational disorders. Since 2002 I have worked in the private sector where, in addition to my musculoskeletal workload, I also worked with some of our region’s specialist orthopaedic surgeons, many of whom are nationally and internationally recognised. I have had broad ranging experience in post operative rehabilitation following hip, knee, shoulder, spinal and foot/ankle surgeries.
I worked as a first contact physiotherapist in general practice, seeing patients without the need for the involvement of the doctor. This role requires experience and confidence in musculoskeletal diagnosis and management. Additionally, a good working knowledge of medical problems is essential to guide patients to appropriate services.
Alongside my physiotherapy skills I gained a qualification in Pilates (APPI matwork certified instructor) in 2011. The school of Pilates I trained with was formed by physiotherapists who took the original Pilates repertoire and modified it to make it more suitable for patients with musculoskeletal problems. I use Pilates regularly with my patients as part of rehabilitation.
I have developed my manual therapy ( joint mobilisations and soft tissue massage) over the last three decades. There are many techniques that can make a significant impact on a patient's problem by calming down pain and helping to restore movement. I will often use manual therapy when I am dealing with a problem that is likely to benefit from 'hands on'. Science tells us that, done in isolation this rarely gives long term results and that it needs to be alongside quality exercise rehabilitation. I give my patients time so that I can potentially do both.
I received my acupuncture qualification in 2011, developing skills within my scope of practice in the areas that support pain control, relaxation and swelling management. I find acupuncture very much compliments the rest of my physiotherapy practice.
