Helping you back to full fitness

Physiotherapy is a science based profession which involves diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions using physical means.

Put in simpler terms, physiotherapy aims to accurately evaluate your problem, then reduce pain and restore function.

Chartered Physiotherapists are closely regulated by their own professional body the CSP (Chartered Society of Physiotherapy) and the HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council)

Always make sure that any physiotherapist you visit displays these credentials.

You're in good hands

Hi, my name is Suzie Lewis MSc. MCSP. I qualified as a Chartered Physiotherapist from Guys Hospital in London in 1987.

I worked in the NHS in a variety of London teaching Hospitals before returning to my native Cornwall in 1995, setting up clinics in GP surgeries across the county. I have extensive post graduate training including a Master’s Degree in Orthopaedic Physiotherapy Practice.

I left the NHS in 2008 to set up the highly successful Padstow Physio Clinic. A family move prompted me to relocate the business to St Ives. The clinic operates from within the Treglisson Rural Workshops in Wheal Alfred, Hayle.

I am registered with some of the major insurance companies please check your insurance details or ring for advice-some policies need to be preauthorised.

Equipment & Techniques

Mobilisation is a gentle method of moving stiff and injured joints and tissues I use a wide range of equipment including:

Laser (LLLT - Low Level Laser Therapy) - utilises light in the form of a laser to reduce pain, and inflammation and regenerate damaged tissue. The treatment is painless and involves the laser probe being activated over the painful or traumatised area.

Ultrasound - Ultrasonic waves are produced by means of mechanical vibration of a crystal in the treatment head of the machine. These sound waves are transmitted into the injured tissues by means of moving the treatment head over the affected area. Special gel is used to ensure maximum transmission of the sound energy. Therapeutic effects of ultrasound include: improving bloodflow, stimulating healing and tissue repair and reducing inflammation.

Pulsed Shortwave - Pulsed Shortwave Diathermy utilises electromagnetic energy to promote healing deep within the tissues.It can be used to treat large areas.

Traction - Spinal traction is a gentle treatment used to relieve the symptoms of back and neck pain. A gentle intermittent force is applied to the affected area using a specialised traction couch. Improvements are maintained by progressive self-help exercises which are tailor made to the individual.

TENS - Transcutaneous Nerve Stimulation - This treatment involves the application of an electrical current by means of surface electrodes. It is an effective, proven method of pain relief, using principles outlined in the so called “pain-gate theory”.

Interferential Therapy (IFT) - This involves the application of a gentle electrical current by means of surface electrodes. 2 medium frequency currents cause an interference which allows the beneficial effects to penetrate deep into the tissues. IFT is used;

• to reduce pain according to the pain gate theory
• to improve muscle tone
• reduce muscle spasm
• reduce swelling
• generally promote healing of injured tissues.

Biofeedback - Is a patient guided treatment that teaches an individual to control muscle tension or activity, posture, and other bodily functions. It is a useful adjunct in the maintenance of improvements gained after treatment e.g. better posture, preventing recurrence of back pain.