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Helen Cowgill, Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
My desire to become a physiotherapist stemmed from watching a physio run onto the pitch on ‘Match of the day’ to treat an injured player when I was 8. . . . And some 15 years later I was doing exactly that!
Helen has a BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy graduating from St George’s Medical School. Helen has worked at two NHS Trusts, spent 3 years working at Charlton Athletic Football Club and has covered matches for The Brunel Hurricanes Superleague Netball team. Helen is a also qualified ‘APPI Modified Pilates’ instructor and is continuing with a post-graduate course to become a member of the MACP.
My desire to become a physiotherapist stemmed from watching a physio run onto the pitch on ‘Match of the day’ to treat an injured player when I was 8. I knew there and then that whatever that person was doing to help the footballer, I wanted to do the same. And some 15 years later I was doing exactly that!
I am continually fascinated with the human body and its intricate design, in particular the muscular system of the body, how it develops and adapts to specific demands. Working with stroke patients in the NHS re-developing their muscles as well as elite athletes pushing their muscles and bodies to the limit have been very different experiences; however, being so closely involved in the achievement of personal goals - whatever they may be - is particularly rewarding.
Clinically, lower limb injuries, sports injuries and muscle imbalance have always been a particular interest of mine. My experience working at Charlton really increased my passion for sports physiotherapy. I worked with first team and Academy players which were very different experiences, but working alongside a team to restore players and return them to football was really satisfying. Working with the Academy players highlighted the importance of musculoskeletal screening to identify potential problem areas and work to prevent problems occurring longer term.
My interest in muscle imbalance further developed through becoming a qualified APPI Modified Pilates instructor. Pilates is a mind body conditioning exercise program targeting the deep postural muscles. It suits all ages, genders and fitness levels and has been shown to be particularly beneficial in low back pain, pregnancy (ante and postnatal) and postural dysfunction. Pilates also features in many elite athletes programs. Modified Pilates is a modification of traditional Pilates in line with current physiotherapeutic research. I really enjoy teaching Pilates and watching people progress as their stability improves.
On a personal level, I have always been involved in sports from a young age playing every sport possible and also in coaching netball. My main sport is Netball and I really enjoyed providing physiotherapy cover for the Brunel Hurricanes and was able here to combine two of my passions; netball and physio. I feel really lucky that I love my job and the interaction with medical teams, coaches and patients provides great variety. Working within a Sports Medicine environment alongside a team of like-minded individuals is fantastic and gives the opportunity for patients to get the best possible care and reach their optimal level.
Outside of Physiotherapy, I still really enjoy any sort of physical activity,
am happily married and appreciate experiencing new places and activities.