Jess Zahra

Senior Physiotherapist | MSc MCSP SRP

My Background

I came to the UK in 2008 to study Sports and Exercise Science. During my studies, I was offered the chance to shadow a physiotherapist. I loved the experience and by the end of that day, I had decided that it was the career for me. I went on to do my Masters in Physiotherapy and I have never looked back, always enjoying learning about anatomy, biomechanics, medical conditions and injuries.

Upon completing my Masters, I began my career in the NHS, rotating as a respiratory physiotherapist, as well as working in neurology rehabilitation and post-surgical wards. Although I enjoyed developing myself as an all rounded physio I knew that my true interests had always been in Musculoskeletal physiotherapy. Therefore, I decided to specialise as an MSK physio. I performed this roll for 8 years in an NHS Trust where I became a senior physiotherapist, responsible for supervision of junior physios and teaching physiotherapy students

My time in the NHS has exposed me to patients with chronic pain, acute injuries, post operative rehabilitation and pregnancy related pains. It has taught me to treat the body holistically, understanding that pain has multiple levels and sources and it is important to diagnose correctly in order to manage appropriately. I also had the opportunity to work closely with spinal, upper limb and lower limb specialists.

Qualifications & Experience

I have a Bachelor’s degrees in Sports and Exercise science which I then followed with my Masters in Physiotherapy. I am qualified in Sports massage which I use regularly in my practice with patients as well as at sporting events such as the London marathon for pre and post sports massage.

Another qualification that I feel has greatly added to my practice is my training in acupuncture under the Acupuncture Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (AACP).  I have found acupuncture to be an effective tool to help calm down pain and subsequently enable patients to rehabilitate to their full potential via exercise and life style changes.

My skills range from exercise prescription, manual therapy, soft tissue release, taping, acupuncture and electrotherapy provision such as ultrasound treatment. I have a lot of experience managing patients suffering from neck and lower back pain. I have previously run Pilates and lower limb strengthening classes which I really enjoyed as I could see the improvements within my patients on a weekly basis.

Specialisms

• Long term pain relief and self-management tools
• Sports specific rehabilitation: As a keen runner, tennis player and snowboarder, I have personal experiences in sporting injuries. I know how sports and exercise is so important for physical and mental health and therefore feel passionate about helping others overcome injuries and achieve their full potential.
• Joint-specific care: I particularly enjoy treating shoulders, elbows and hips as well as spinal problems. I believe in looking not only at the local problem but the importance of looking further up the kinetic chain to improve general body function.

How I like to recharge and reset

I have always enjoyed sports and exercise. I played competitive tennis from a young age. Growing up in the alps I was also a keen skier and snowboarder. I enjoy swimming, climbing and running, and have completed sprint triathlons and half marathons. I also have a good understanding of golf thanks to my father who is a golf fanatic and got me playing from a young age. He also contributed to my professional development due to his never-ending list of MSK injuries!

I have two young children, aged 3 and 5 years old, who keep me very busy, as well as a lovely German Shepherd who I love walking and running with.