Meet Joanne

Qualifications

BSc Hons Physiotherapy, BSc Hons Sport Science, Certified Pilates Instructor and Certified Complete Concussions Management (CCMI) Practitioner

Specialist Fields

Physiotherapist and Pilates Instructor

Background

As a teenager I enjoyed socialising and sports and was fascinated with the body, a career in physiotherapy seemed the obvious choice. It is a career that I still love as I continue to learn more about people, their injuries, and the many ways to assist a full recovery.

The competition to get onto a physiotherapy degree course was fierce, so I initially completed a Sports Science degree, a Swedish massage certificate and an Aromatherapy diploma. With perseverance I gained a physiotherapy place and qualified in 1998.

Since then, I have worked locally for the NHS in Gloucester, Stroud and Dursley, finally specialising in Musculoskeletal (MSK) physiotherapy. When my 3 children arrived, I chose to move to the Courtyard Clinic, a local, flexible and professional clinic with a talented team who have lots of enthusiasm.

While at Courtyard I continued to develop my knowledge of musculoskeletal conditions by doing regular training courses, listening to my peers, and keeping up to date with the latest research. I qualified to use acupuncture and I became a Pilates instructor and have been teaching here for many years. Although I do try to work my classes hard to ensure they benefit, we have a little banter and I do encourage a Pilates smile!

I had a back injury in 2013 which resulted in surgery. I cannot say I enjoyed being a patient, but it gave me a valuable insight into the concerns of those with back pain, and this has been an area of particular interest for me. I realised the strong connection between mind and body and the importance of doing my exercises!

My latest fascination and interest is in the field of concussion and I have qualified as a Certified Complete Concussions practitioner, enabling me to assess and treat those who have ongoing symptoms following a concussion.

I feel incredibly lucky to work here as a physiotherapist and strive to provide the best care I can in a reassuring and caring environment.