I learned to dance before I learned to walk… or so I’ve been told by my parents and older sisters. I’ve always loved dancing, and my enthusiasm led me to pursue a career in the dance world. Throughout my school years I studied ballet, modern and jazz, tap, and ballroom and Latin. I completed my BA(Hons) in Dance Studies from Roehampton University, in southwest London. I went on to do an apprenticeship program with Springs Dance Company in southeast London. I then worked for many years as a dancer and dance teacher in London.
But just like many dancers, I suffered a range of profession-related injuries. I also watched many of my colleagues suffering from aches and pains and injuries, while at the same time struggling to improve their technique. I began to ask questions. How can dancers push their bodies to the limit without risking injury? Or, in the unfortunate event of injury, how can a dancer recover quickly and come back stronger? What can science tell us about how we can improve our technique?
Thus began my career in physiotherapy. I qualified in physiotherapy at Oxford Brookes University, graduating with a first class degree. I gained a wide range of experience working in a rotational post in the NHS, which included a particular focus on musculoskeletal injuries, and completed further post graduate training in kinetic chain analysis, exercise therapy, manual therapy, hypermobility syndrome management, and pre- and postnatal care.
Throughout my dance career, I developed a keen interest in how the body moves and the science of movement analysis, so naturally I went on to do further post graduate training in applying physiotherapy techniques and the science of dance to real life dancers and dance training. I have used my knowledge and skills to treat a wide range of dance related injuries. I have also specialised in providing injury prevention therapy and technique improvement strategies.
I have over 15 years experience working with dancers. Currently, I work with a wide range of clients, from professional contemporary dancers, to budding ballerinas, to amateur dance enthusiasts. I work both virtually, via the wonders of modern technology, and in person at my clinic in Northern Ireland. I also work with the lovely team at Active Therapy Clinic, where I treat “non-dance” clients, including all manners of sports injuries and general musculoskeletal conditions.
When I’m not dancing or being a physio, I love to get outdoors, trail running, walking and mountain biking. I also enjoy classical music, travelling and spending quality time with my husband and lively three-year-old daughter.
