Private Physio

Private physiotherapy is available at Castle Park – home of the Doncaster Knights!

Physiotherapy can help a range of musculoskeletal conditions. These may include muscle strains, ligament sprains, overuse injuries, post-surgery rehabilitation or joint problems. The use of manual therapy techniques, soft tissue massage, acupuncture and electrotherapy are used to promote healing.

This is complemented with advice regarding posture and progressive rehabilitation to aid recovery.

To arrange an appointment contact Vicky Chapman on 07894 935246.

We asked Vicky to tell us something about her background and practice:

What inspired you to set up in private practice?

Following my appointment as full time 1st XV physiotherapist at Doncaster it was agreed that I would also set up a private practice based at Castle Park. As the first year was very much a transition period I was keen to focus predominantly on the playing side which is obviously my priority. However, now our whole squad is full-time it is much easier to manage my time and develop the private side.

Where is it based?

The club are kindly allowing me to use the facilities at Castle Park which means that it is based in the same room as that used by the players! You may or may not see that as a positive!

What services are offered?

I am available to treat predominantly musculoskeletal conditions ranging from work related disorders, overuse conditions, joint pain, sprains, strains to post surgery rehabilitation. And of course, sports related injuries are also welcomed!! A full assessment of the condition will be undertaken at the initial assessment and then a plan of treatment agreed with the patient. This treatment may include manual therapy (hands-on joint mobilisations), electrotherapy (such as ultrasound), acupuncture, exercise therapy or massage. If a home exercise programme is deemed necessary, a print-out of the exercises will be provided.

About me

I graduated from Sheffield Hallam University in 2002 with a 2:1 BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy. Following this I worked at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust for four years whilst working at Doncaster Knights part-time, and I then went on to complete an MSc in Sport Injury at the University of Sheffield. When the club went full-time I was approached to continue my role as first team physiotherapist but in a full-time capacity! After a certain amount of deliberation, I am confident that I made the right decision and I thoroughly enjoy my job!

What has been the highlight of working with the Knights?

 I am amazed at how the team has progressed over the last few years! I would have to say that winning the Division 2 title and gaining promotion to the Championship has been my highlight so far but the success we achieved in our first season in this league is a close runner up. I grew up following Northampton Saints (dare I say it), so when we played them a few seasons ago that was a highlight.

How does working in sport differ from the NHS?

First and foremost the demands are much higher! Every coach wants to be able to choose his 22 rather that have it picked for him in response to an injury crisis. The players are very motivated with their rehabilitation and I am fortunate to work with players who have a professional mindset… that said, at times they need holding back! The NHS can be frustrating as it is not always possible to see patients as often as you would like and surgeons can be less accessible. Fortunately, I have a good relationship with the surgeons that we use here at Doncaster and they are very approachable whenit comes to discussing a player’s rehabilitation and progress.

How to get an appointment

You may telephone Vicky directly on 07894 935246 or contact the club, leave your details  and she will call you back. Appointments can often be arranged for the same day and almost certainly the same week. If you wish to discuss whether physiotherapy is appropriate for you, Vicky will happily answer any queries.