• BSc Physiotherapy Studies (1994)
• Member of The Chartered Society of Physiotherapists ( CSP )
• Member of The Health and Care Professionals Council ( HCPC )
• Member of The Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Neurology (ACPIN)
• Member of The Medico legal Association of Chartered Physiotherpists.( MLACP)

SPECIALIST AREAS

Neurological Physiotherapy and Long-Term Rehabilitation with Functional Gains

EXPERIENCE

I qualified as a Chartered Physiotherapist in 1994.  In the years that followed I have gained experience in a variety of settings, working in the UK and New Zealand.

As a neuro-physiotherapist I aimed to gain experience in all the relevant roles and clinical areas relating to Neurology and Rehabilitation.     Thus, I understand the patient journey from initial diagnosis to subsequent admissions, involving acute and community rehabilitation, short- and long-term goal planning and related management. I clearly recognise the long-term potential for improvement and possible limitations along the way.

I have worked both independently and collaboratively with Consultant and Lead Clinicians assessing highly complexed patients requiring regional expertise, these clients have often had catastrophic injuries and severe disabilities.

I have experience treating patients in the fields of Neurology, Neuro-surgery, General Medicine and Elderly Care.  I have worked with the regional specialist teams supporting patients with complex Intra-thecal Baclofen (ITB) and Spasticity Specialists Clinics, including Specialists Orthotics and Botulinum Toxin provision.

I regularly treat a range of neurological disorders including:

• Brain Injury
• Guillian Barre / CIDP
• MS
• CVA
• Elderly Care
• Parkinsons Disease /Multi-system Atrophy
• Neuropathies

In addition to my clinical roles, I complete Expert Witness Reports on Physiotherapy, Quantum and Breach of Duty cases.

I currently work full time in Private Practice, I have a diverse caseload some require short term therapy, but many longer-term coordinated management.  The benefit of extended therapy time that is possible in Private Practice, has helped clients to achieve greater goals. This is my strength; I have clients 10-15 years post incident who are still improving and achieving new goals.  From the initial diagnosis and prognosis, being told “you will never walk again” through hard work and determination to now being able to access the community on foot.  My experience helps me be realistic as not all clients are the same.

To develop my post graduate skills, I have completed a variety of Advanced and Masters module courses:

• The three week Bobath – Neuro-developmental course,
• Botulinum Toxin injectors Module.
• The 3D Complex CML Gait analysis in Dundee,

As well as more general areas such as:

• Acupuncture
• Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)
• Rehabilitating the Problem Shoulder
• Casting and splinting
• Orthotic Provision
• Management and Leadership modules.

I regularly attend conferences pushing the boundaries of Physiotherapy and developing the Role of the Physiotherapist, organised by the CSP and other organisations.

My Publications: Improving the efficacy of Respiratory Referrals in a DGH. Professional Article, Physiotherapy Journal. Vol 84 No 12 Dec 1998

I have undertaken expert witness training and understand my responsibilities as an expert under Part 35 of The Civil Procedure Rules.

I undertake appropriate training to ensure that my skills and knowledge are current. I have completed the MLAPC Introductory course: The role of the Physiotherapist as an Expert Witness in Adult Neurology; Joint Statements; Peripheral Nerve Injury.  Also recently completing the Two day course with Angela Fitzpatrick: Expert Witness Training.

I am a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists (CSP) and the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC)