Physiotherapy is a health care profession concerned with human function and movement and maximising potential.

It uses physical approaches to promote, maintain and restore physical, psychological and social well-being, taking account of variations in health status.

It is science-based, committed to extending, applying, evaluating and reviewing the evidence that underpins and informs its practice and delivery. This definition is taken from the CSP curriculum framework 2003.

What lead you to pursue a career in Physiotherapy?
I first became aware of the profession at a young age. My friend suffered with cystic fibrosis and I remember admiring the health care workers who took care of her. I also had a keen interest in dance in particular ballet. Later on I was mainly interested in pursuing a vocational university degree which combined science and care. Physiotherapy seemed ideal.

Why work privately and not in the NHS?
I like the fact I have plenty of time with my clients. Working privately both myself and my clients have time to explore the problem at hand and reach solutions. I find it works better and people are much happier with the service they receive.

Can I get NHS funding or will my medical insurance give me cover?
Your GP or consultant can refer you but funding will need to be obtained from medical insurance or yourself. You can also opt to see a private Physiotherapist without a referral but this is not always covered by medical insurance. Physiotherapy can be provided on the NHS but there is often a long wait and having worked in the NHS there is limited time spent with the Physiotherapist.

What do you treat?
I can assess and treat a variety of conditions. I specialise in injuries, pain and symptoms arising from joints, muscles and nerves. This includes sports injuries, repetitive strain injuries, whiplash to name a few. Mobility and pain arising from arthritis in the spine and other joints can be treated. Physiotherapy is excellent for restoring and maintaining mobility so we see many people after surgery. You are working with Chiropractors.

What is the difference between Chiropractors and Physiotherapists?
As a Physiotherapist I see my role as helping restore peoples function and movement and maximising potential. I use physical approaches to promote, maintain and restore physical, psychological and social well-being, taking account of variations in the individual's health status. My techniques include electrotherapy, acupuncture, exercise rehabilitation and manual treatments. Chiropractors have there own specialist hands on approach to ultimately reach the same goal which is restoring an individual's physical health. I imagine many people would benefit from either approach and sometimes a combined approach is beneficial. We are applying a combined approach at the BAC centre with some of our clients so they benefit from Chiropractic and Physiotherapy input.

When are you available?
I have availability mornings and afternoons during the week and some evenings also Saturdays. Another advantage is flexibility where you can access Physiotherapy at a time which suits you. Do you provide home visits? Yes. Physiotherapy can benefit people who cannot get out to access the clinic. I provide home visits and will also visit nursing and residential homes.

How are you contacted?
You can contact the centre to book an appointment or contact me directly if you have any queries.

Why work at the BAC centre?
The BAC centre has a friendly and professional team. The centre provides a clean and well equipped environment which is easy to access for my clients. All the staff there are very friendly and welcoming which is a bonus.

One hour consultation: £tbc

Physiotherapy is a health care profession concerned with human function and movement and maximising potential:

a.. It uses physical approaches to promote, maintain and restore physical, psychological and social well-being, taking account of variations in health status

b.. It is science-based, committed to extending, applying, evaluating and reviewing the evidence that underpins and informs its practice and delivery

c.. The exercise of clinical judgement and informed interpretation is at its core."
The above definition is taken from the CSP curriculum framework (January 2002)

Rachel is a fully qualified Physiotherapist registered with the Health Professions Council and Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

Rachel trained at Coventry University and qualified with a first class honors in 2001. Since qualification she has worked around the Birmingham and Black Country and specialized in her field at a private hospital in Edgbaston.

Since qualification Rachel has carried out a Masters in Advancing Practice. Her specialist area is musculoskeletal rehabilitation and orthopaedics. This covers all types of injuries and problems including sports injuries, occupational injuries, whiplash, spinal injuries and age or surgically related mobility problems.

She is also a member of the Organisation of Chartered Physiotherapists in Private Practice and Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists.

info to come...