“The minute I was introduced to the team at The Rehab Physio it was a ‘meeting of minds.’ The technology in their facility is unrivalled but what really resonated with me was the immediate connection with the therapists; their vast experience meant that they understood what I was going through and gave me the confidence to pursue my recovery goals. On that first visit I knew immediately that they could provide a winning combination of specialist neurological physio skills and motivational support. They understood my physical needs and were also very aware of the challenges I was having with my memory.

With the help of their fantastic team, I now regard my accident as the catalyst to a new and exciting phase in my life. Don’t get me wrong, there are ongoing challenges that I will always have but mentally I feel better…more connected and grateful for everyone who has supported me on the road to recovery.

I am a huge advocate for The Rehab Physio and would encourage anyone who feels like they may have reached the end of the road in their rehabilitation journey to think again and contact the team for an initial assessment.”

Background

Paul is a trained physiotherapist, and now works for a Global Medical Equipment company. When he is not on his international travels with work, he’s a keen sports enthusiast with a particular interest in endurance training.

In April 2022 Paul was out training on his bike with a fellow cyclist as part of his preparation for the Ironman World Championships in May, when he collided with a car. His cycling companion, an anaesthetist, acted quickly, delivering lifesaving treatment while they waited for the air ambulance to arrive.

Paul’s Condition

Paul sustained multiple injuries including a skull fracture, traumatic brain injury and numerous broken bones. He was in a coma, spending 10 days in Intensive care, and was an in-patient for 9 weeks. During that time he embarked on his rehabilitation journey, learning to perform basic functions such as talking and walking again.

He was discharged from hospital with a prognosis of recovering 80% of his former function and advised he would be off work for 15 months. Paul was not willing to accept this outcome and started to research the options in terms of neurological physiotherapy.

A friend introduced him to The Rehab Physio and the rest is history…

Our Treatment

Paul accessed The Rehab Physio’s neurological physiotherapy treatment programme, focusing on balance training, coordination, and functional movements, such as rising from a chair.  He was able to work with the latest equipment and techniques which were not available to him in hospital.

The brain injury had resulted in a ‘drop-foot’ meaning that Paul was initially unable to fully raise his toes and foot upwards, causing challenges with climbing stairs and navigating uneven ground. In his first attempt back running, he set his sights on the modest goal of running around the block. Due to his foot drop, he clipped a paving stone and hit the floor hard. This reinforced Paul’s need for the support of The Rehab Physio.

Paul visited the clinic weekly for 10 weeks, working his way back to safe running using the specialist treadmill at the clinic. Additionally he routinely used a nerve stimulation device provided by the clinic to help the recovery of his foot function.

Aside from the therapy provided in clinic, Paul dedicated himself to working on the home rehab techniques provided by The Rehab Physio team. This is an essential part of the recovery journey where the patient takes ownership over their rehabilitation. This is where the magic happens!

Where is he now?

Paul has now been discharged from The Rehab Physio’s neuro physio programme, but continues to work on his balance, coordination and flexibility independently at home.

With The Rehab Physio’s support he was able to return to work after 6 months (not the 15 months initially predicted) and has now resumed his normal duties, with a full travel schedule. This has been a huge boost to his confidence as he really missed having a purpose.

Shortly afterwards, he made a return to running events, completing his first half-marathon since his accident.  He has since launched a book, ‘Sub-3 Hour Marathon Playbook’ after consistently running marathons around the world in less than 3 hours, a huge achievement for any athlete.

Paul ran the London Marathon in April, raising over £5,000 for the North West Air Ambulance who helped to save his life.  He will be travelling to Hawaii in October 2024 to take part in the IRONMAN World Championships.

Good luck Paul. Something tells us you won’t need it!