We are well-established, State registered Physiotherapists in Colchester. We’ve been around long enough to know what works and what doesn’t. While we have not seen it all, we keep up to date with the latest research and can draw on over 40 years of experience.
Our practice of experienced clinicians is augmented by our brilliant partners, Michael and Chris, who bring expertise in healthcare strategy, business and financial management.
So, here we are!
Jo Goswell | Lead Physio & More
Hey, I’m Jo.
I qualified as a Physio in 1992. I started off my career working in the NHS, particularly helping people who had suffered strokes. I then moved to New Zealand where I developed an interest in sports injuries. On returning to the UK I started in private practice where I combined my understanding of the nervous system with my experience in restoring normal human movement.
I have since worked hard at honing my skills in recognising patterns of movement and considering the environment in which we move. This means I can help people who come to see me with a wider context of how they move, how to de-risk situations and help them to move better.
You’ll often find me going on hikes or on my yoga mat.
You can book a consultation with me here
Karen Ricks | Senior Associate Physio & More
Hey, I’m Karen.
I qualified as a Physio in 2001. Since then I’ve invested a lot of time advancing my understanding, through formal study and experience, of how the body moves and how the nervous system can influence or limit normal movement. I have worked in both the NHS and the private sector which gives me a solid understanding of how the UK health system works overall. I use this understanding to help the people I see with not only the conditions that they are living with but also how best to navigate through the UK health system.
You’ll often find me playing netball and keeping up with my 8-year-old on his bike!
You can book a consultation with me here
Naomi Nevitt | Associate Physio
Hey, I’m Naomi
I specialise in Physio for Women’s health. I have honed my skills working in the NHS over the last 12 years.
I have worked in a variety of care settings including hospitals, rehab units, and in community clinics across the country.
Being a specialist in Women’s health means that I treat a range of issues that women might experience during pregnancy, after giving birth or as a result of conditions which might present as back or pregnancy-related pains, heavy, dragging or bulging sensations (prolapse) , or incontinence. I am passionate about helping women return to their hobbies, their jobs, their exercise and sporting pursuits, or even just feeling confident to socialise with friends and family again. Being a busy working mum myself, I can relate to many women who come to see me with new symptoms or issues that have persisted for many years. I tailor every treatment and exercise programme because, after all, we are all different!
You will often find me out exploring new walks with my family and my dog (a Rhodesian ridgeback).
You can book a consultation with me here
Nicola Smeeth | Associate Physio
Hey, I’m Nicola
I qualified as a physio in 2000. I have worked locally in the NHS and charity sector since qualifying, and I have a great understanding of the health services available to people. My particular field of expertise lies in the rehabilitation of elderly people, helping to prevent falls and to re-educate their balance.
My aim is to provide a holistic, personalised assessment and treatment that focusses on things that are most important to you. I can help you to achieve your maximum potential and to assist you to adapt to physical changes. I’m happy to see people in their homes, if that’s more convenient, or in our rooms at Colchester United.
You’ll often find me outdoors, playing netball or being taxi driver to my teenage children!
You can book a consultation with me here
Michael Barker | Strategy & More
Hey, I’m Michael.
I am from South Africa originally. I am also a Physio by background and worked in the NHS at Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital in London as one of first Consultant Physios in Intensive Care.
Over the last 20 years I have worked in healthcare management both in the UK and internationally. I currently run my own healthcare strategy business Saffron Steer helping NHS, private and voluntary sector clients to position their services in very competitive markets. I recently returned to the clinical shop floor to help out with the Covid-19 pandemic at NHS Nightingale where I built and led the Physio service. I’ve just completed an 18-month project with the UK Health Security Agency (previously Test and Trace), working on a major Covid testing programme. I am currently working as a Specialist Clinical Advisor to the NHS’ New Hospital Programme.
You’ll often find me singing and writing songs.
Chris Smith | Numbers & More
Hey, I’m Chris.
I’m an Accountant by background working in the Banking & Finance world.
I worked as a Risk Director in several global banks (Lloyds, Standard Chartered and CFS) for many years before setting up several small businesses. One of them is a stone cutting business in Wales and another a residential property lettings & management business covering central London and Essex.
You’ll often find me on an airplane heading somewhere. So, if you get an email from me at 3am, I’m not an insomniac … I’m just in another time zone!