Monday 20th October
After taking 10 months off to work in Australia and then travel around the Far East, we are delighted to announce that Lowri is back in the UK and will be rejoining our clinic on Monday, 20th October.
For those of you who missed being treated by Lowri in the past and would like to be one of the first to welcome her back, now is the time to call us and book your appointment.
One thing is for sure: Lowri will never run out of exciting stories to tell you about her travels.
Book now to avoid disappointment!
A gentle guide to the Mummy MOT.
If you are a mum - whether your baby is six weeks, six months, or six years old, I want you to know this:
- Your body matters
- Your recovery matters
- You matter
You have grown and birthed a whole human - that's incredible! And just like any physical event (like running a marathon or having surgery), your body deserves expert support to recover, rebuild and thrive.
That's where the Mummy MOT comes in.
Wondering if a Mummy MOT is for you? (Spoiler alert- it probably is!)
Let's dive into the who, what, why and how of it all - because this could be your first step to truly feeling like yourself again.
Who?
If you've had a baby vaginally or via C-section, this is for you. Whether it was your first or your fifth, whether it was six weeks or six years ago, a Mummy MOT can help.
This isn't just for new mums in the early days. If you've notice things like:
- leaking when you sneeze, laugh, run
- a feeling of heaviness down there
- ongoing back, hip or pelvic pain
- a tummy gap / bulge that hasn't gone away
- pain in sex / difficulty getting back to intimacy.
- or even if you feel fine but you want reassurance you're recovering well then a Mummy MOT is 100% for you!
Why?
Why do I need a Mummy MOT? Let's be honest, after birth, the focus tends to shift completely to your baby. You are told your six week checkup is the green light to ‘get back to normal’ but very little attention is paid to how your body is actually doing.
Most postnatal checks barely scratch the surface.
The truth? Many women live with issues they think are just ‘part of being a mum’. But although leaking, pain and discomfort are common, they are not normal, and they can be resolved with the right support!
The Mummy MOT is about giving you that space. To be heard. To be assessed. To be looked after.
What?
What actually is a Mummy MOT? A Mummy MOT is a specialist postnatal checkup with a trained woman's health physio (like Lauren!) that looks at:
- your pelvic floor function
- abdominal wall checking for DRA / separation
- posture and core
- how your body is moving, holding an compensating
- Any aches, pains or concerns, both physical and emotional
We chat, we assess we make a plan that's tailored to you.
It's not about judgement. It's about empowerment. This is your safe space to ask all the questions you weren't sure you could ask. And to then get real answers.
When should I have a Mummy MOT?
Any time after six weeks postpartum is ideal. The main thing to know is it's never too late!
If you're struggling with sex or just want to reconnect with your body it doesn't matter if you're six weeks or sixteen years postpartum, you deserve some total loving care!
How does it work?
Here is what to expect:
1. An initial Mummy MOT assessment
Includes a 60 minute session to assess pelvic floor, abdominal wall and muscles, posture, breathing, movement patterns and any other concerns you may have. We'll talk about your birth experience, your symptoms (if any), your sex life and your goals - whether that's getting back to activity, lifting your child with ease or feeling comfortable in your own skin again.
2. Tailored plan
Based on your assessment, we will give you a personalised rehab plan. This could include pelvic floor exercises [don't worry, it's not just squeeze, hold and hope!], movement work, postural support and core rehab.
3. Follow up support
Many women find follow up appointments helpful to guide their recovery and I'll be beside you every step of your healing journey.
Final thoughts [and a little encouragement)
Mums, I know how easy it is to put yourself last. But your health isn't a luxury, it's a foundation. You deserve to feel strong, confident and supported in your postnatal journey. So whether you're still bleeding or back at work, exhausted or energised, uncertain or curious, I invite you to take that first step.
Let's get you booked in for your Mummy MOT! This is your time!
If you are suffering from any postpartum problems or concerns, we can help.
Call 01889 881488 now and ask for a Mummy MOT assessment with Lauren
How pelvic health physio can help you heal.
Let's be honest, pelvic pain can be confusing, frustrating and even isolating. Maybe you've been told ‘it's just period pain’ or that ‘it’s normal after or when carrying a baby’ or worse …… that ‘it’s all in your head’.
But deep down, you know something doesn't feel right and you're looking for real answers.
Click here to read on
As a women’s health physio, I want you to hear this loud and clear: pelvic pain is real, it's valid, and it is something we can treat.
Because it’s a lot more common than you may think. More importantly though is that it’s very treatable. Maybe it’s bladder leaks when you laugh, cough, sneeze or even run.
You are not alone and you don’t have to suffer in silence.
Let’s talk about something a lot of women quietly live with bladder leaks and urgency. Whether it’s a little dribble when you sneeze, or a sudden urge that you just can’t make it to the toilet in time, it can feel frustrating, embarrassing and isolating. But here is the good news. You are not alone and it is absolutely treatable.
What Is Urinary Incontinence?
Urinary Incontinence simply means involuntary leaking urine. There are a few common types:
- Stress induced urinary incontinence which is typically when you laugh, sneeze, cough, jump, run or lift.
- Urge Urinary Incontinence is when a sudden and strong need to go occurs and you don’t always make it in time.
- Mixed Urinary Incontinence is a combination of both stress & urge.
These can happen during pregnancy, after birth, during menopause or seemingly, out of nowhere. But no matter when it starts, you don’t have to put up with it.
How Can Women’s Health Physiotherapy Help?
-
As a qualified Women’s Health Physiotherapist, I am trained to assess and treat the muscles and systems that support your bladder and pelvic floor. I will work with you to:
- Understand why leaking is happening
- Rebuild your pelvic floor strength, co-ordination and control
- Manage urgency and retrain bladder habits
- Give you simple, effective strategies that fit your life
It’s always personal, private and tailored to your needs, without judgement.
If you don’t want to suffer any longer, we can help. Call the clinic and ask for an appointment with Lauren
That’s what we hear from so many women, sometimes in tears, sometimes with a nervous laugh when they finally open up about their pelvic health. Maybe it’s bladder leaks when you laugh or sneeze. Maybe it’s pain during sex. Maybe it’s discomfort that started after having a baby, or one of those “unspoken” changes around menopause. Whatever it is
- Because you think it’s something you have to live with, or
- Because it’s embarrassing, or
- Because no one ever talks about it
UNTIL NOW
You are not alone and you don’t have to suffer in silence.
Introducing Women’s Health Physiotherapy At The Nicky Snazell Clinic
We are proud to now offer a dedicated Women’s health physiotherapy service, led by our compassionate and highly skilled physiotherapist, Lauren.
This isn’t just about treatment – it’s about feeling heard, respected and supported. Whether you are recovering from birth, managing menopause, or struggling with pelvic pain, Lauren is here to help you feel more in control of your body again.
You Are Not Alone – And You Don’t Have To Suffer In Silence
- Urinary incontinence
- Constipation or faecal incontinence
- Pelvic organ prolapse (that heavy or dragging feeling)
- Pain or discomfort with intimacy
- Postnatal recovery
- Menopausal changes
- Just wanting to understand and care for your body better
- And more…
Every appointment is completely confidential and care plans are tailored to your individual needs, combining hands-on therapy, education and gentle, empowering support.
“It takes courage to ask for help. I’m here to listen and support you without judgement”
What To Expect At Your Appointment
- At your first appointment we will talk about your symptoms, your goals, your story. Then, with your full consent, I may do a physical assessment which could include checking your posture, movement and breathing. If it’s appropriate and you are comfortable, I may also perform an internal assessment. Rest assured, you will always be in control of your care.
- From there, I will create a personalised plan of hands on treatment, education, exercises and support that fits into your life
If you don’t want to suffer any longer, we can help. Call the clinic and ask for an appointment with Lauren
(And Why He’s the Man to Fix Your Running Niggles)
Ever fancied running a marathon? Sounds like a lovely idea until you’re 18 miles in, legs like jelly, and questioning your life choices. But for John, one of our brilliant physios (and our in-house running guru), the 2025 London Marathon was more than a personal challenge. It was about family, community, and raising over £3,500 for the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation.
Oh, and also practising what he preaches when it comes to running well and staying injury-free.
Why the Marathon?
John’s choice to run for the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation was personal. Their work in research and patient support struck a chord, and having done some of their events before, John knew this was a challenge worth taking on.
With a fundraising target of £2,200, John and his wife (with her famous candles and bake sales) rallied the troops, and the local community got stuck in. By race day, they’d smashed it.
The Physio Who Knows Running Inside Out
John’s not just “a bloke who runs”. He’s our running gait analysis specialist at the clinic. That means he spends his days helping runners of all levels — from 'Couch to 5K' newbies to seasoned marathoners — run more efficiently and avoid injuries.
“Every niggle, every ache in training… I’ve been there. That’s why I’m so passionate about helping runners understand how their bodies move. A small tweak in your gait can save you a lot of grief down the line.”
The Training Struggle is Real
John’s marathon training hit 60 miles a week at its peak. That’s a lot of podcasts. He mixed in local races like the Rugeley 10 Mile and Stafford Half Marathon as practice runs.
But as any runner knows, training doesn’t always go to plan. A poorly timed cold threw a spanner in the works just weeks before London, forcing a tactical retreat and extra rest.
“Training plans are guides, not gospel. Your body needs time to adapt, and setbacks are part of the journey. It’s all about managing the load — same as I tell my clients.”
Marathon Day: Blood, Sweat & Cheers
Race day brought sunshine, sweat, and the electric buzz of 60,000 runners flooding London’s streets. Crowd support was unreal, especially at landmarks like Cutty Sark and Tower Bridge. A surreal highlight? Seeing Eliud Kipchoge fly past on the opposite side of the course.
But despite smart pacing and hydration, cramp hit hard in the final miles. Yet, John powered through, fuelled by the support of family, friends, and the thought of the charity he was running for.
John Spots His Family at Mile 21
Crossing the Finish Line (and What Comes Next)
Turning past Buckingham Palace towards the finish was emotional. Months of training, sacrifice, and community support all leading to this moment. Relief, pride, exhaustion — all rolled into one.
But is John resting on his laurels now? Not likely.
“Chester Half Marathon’s up next, and then I’m chasing a new 5K PB. Running’s addictive like that.”
Could John Help Your Running?
If you’re a runner — whether you’re plodding your first 5K or chasing marathon glory — John’s your man. His gait analysis sessions can help you:
- Run more efficiently
- Reduce injury risk
- Recover better
- Enjoy running more
Because it’s not just about going faster. It’s about running smarter, staying pain-free, and making sure your body can cope with the miles.
Fancy a Chat About Your Running?
If John’s marathon story has got you thinking about your own running journey, why not book in for a gait analysis session? Whether you’re struggling with a niggle, want to improve your form, or simply want to avoid the common pitfalls, John’s been there, done that, and got the sweaty T-shirt.
And if you’d like to support his marathon fundraising (it’s still open), you can donate here:
Call us on 01889 881488 or click here to book your running gait analysis with John.
Nicky Snazell Clinic leads where others follow
Nicky Snazell Clinic has been at the leading edge of introducing new technology since it opened in 2007. We are delighted to announce that this time we have done it again, not just once but twice. Yes, we have added two new technologies that are rarely available in the UK.
And these technologies can help treat conditions that previously we were unable to treat.
Many years ago, we added radial shockwave to our arsenal of technology, one of the first clinics in the UK to do so. It was relatively so new in the UK that we had to go to France and Luxembourg to get quality training. As a result, we have had considerable success in helping to treat the causes of pain which were shallow in the body, up to 3cm deep. Since then, and rightly so, many other clinics have seen the benefits of radial shockwave and added it to their capability.
A significant limitation of radial shockwave, however, is that its effective depth is too shallow to treat many conditions. It is also too painful to treat many superficial problems like tennis or golfers’ elbow and would be out of the question for bone fractures.
Focussed shockwave is able to deliver far more energy than radial shockwave, and with far greater precision.
Focussed shockwave is very different to radial shockwave. Whereas radial shockwaves are greatest at the skin surface and then become weaker as they diverge, focussed shockwaves converge as they penetrate the body, reaching their maximum energy at the focus point, around 12.5cm deep. The actual treatment depth is adjustable by spacers, thus allowing treatment at any depth up to 12.5 cm.
Focussed shockwave is able to deliver far more energy than radial shockwave, and with far greater precision. As a result, focussed shockwave can treat many conditions that are not possible with radial shockwave. Focused shockwaves are high energy sound waves that are delivered deep into damaged tissue with high precision. These high energy waves increase blood flow, improve overall cell structure, stimulate stem cells, release growth factors and have an analgesic effect whilst stimulating the body’s natural repair and regeneration processes.
What can we treat with focussed shockwave?
- Osteoarthritis
- Tendinopathies
- Insertional tendinopathies
- Carpal tunnel
- Deep seated tendons
- Medial tibial stress syndrome
- Bone fractures
- Stress injuries
- Stress fractures – non unions
- Degenerative Pathologies
- Osteitis Pubis
- Spinal facet joint pain
- Coccydynia
- Acute pain and flare ups
- Wound healing
- Chronic pelvic pain syndrome
Want to get better faster? Focused shockwave can provide fast pain relief and increased mobility.
EMTT
The second technology we have added is even more rare than focussed shockwave. There are very few in the UK. It’s called Extracorporeal Magneto Transduction Therapy (EMTT) and it’s a new state of the art therapy available at Nicky Snazell Clinic.
EMTT is highly tolerated, even with the most painful conditions.
EMTT uses high energy magnetic fields for regeneration and rehabilitation at a cellular level. It can penetrate the body up to 18cm deep stimulating biological processes and speeds up tissue repair. The treatment initiates an anti-inflammatory response, reducing pain and inflammation in affected areas of the body, making it perfect for clients with:
- Acute pain presentation
- Irritable flare ups
- Neuropathic pain
- Diffused pain
- Degenerative pain such as osteoarthritis
- Rheumatic conditions
EMTT is highly tolerated, even with the most painful conditions. It speeds up the healing of tendons, bones and nerves.
During treatment, painful areas of the body are treated with high-energy magnetic pulses of such intensity that it is possible to achieve a therapeutic effect in the cells. The individual pulses penetrate the tissue so that even deeper tissue layers can be reached.
What can we treat with EMTT?
- Osteoarthritis
- Non-specific lower back pain
- Nerve entrapments (carpal tunnel, sciatica)
- Bursitis
- Rheumatologic pain
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Non-union fractures
- Stress fractures
- Osseocronosis
- Implant osseointegration
- Tendinopathies
- Plantar fasciitis
- Accelerated sports recovery
Combined Treatment
Not surprisingly, focussed shockwave and EMTT complement each other. Better and faster results have been obtained by combining these two technologies.
Ask your therapist for more information.
Hi, I’m John Hodgkiss, a full time physiotherapist working at Nicky Snazell’s Physiotherapy and Wellness Clinic. I specialise in running gait analysis and I have had the privilege to have helped many runners improve, from fellow running enthusiasts and friends right up to elite athletes.
Running for Roy Castles Lung Cancer Foundation
As many of you know, I’ve embarked on a thrilling journey to train for my first ‘live’ marathon, the 2025 London marathon, taking place on April 27th. Sadly, both my own family and my wife’s family have lost loved ones to cancer and I wanted to help in a way that I can, so committing to run the London Marathon was an obvious choice. Roy Castles Lung Cancer Foundation is a leading cancer charity and my aim is to raise £2,300 to help them.
Running a marathon successfully is heavily dependent on proper preparation and I wanted to take a moment to share my progress, challenges, and what I’ve learned so far. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just curious about this incredible experience, I hope my updates will inspire you to lace up your trainers and hit the pavement (or trail)!
Week-by-Week Breakdown.
Start date: 6th January 2025
Week 1-4:
The Foundation
The first few weeks of training
focused on building a solid foundation. My routine consisted of shorter, mostly conversational paced runs, slowly increasing my mileage each week. I incorporated a few harder runs and a couple of short strength workouts to enhance my overall fitness. I prefer to run on Cannock Chase but as London is a road race I started building in more miles on the pavements to start getting my body used to this. The biggest takeaway?
Consistency is key! Setting a schedule and sticking to it makes all the difference.
Week 5-8:
Building As I entered the next phase of training, I began to feel more comfortable with longer distances. I introduced a few more speed/ intervals during my mid-week runs to increase my pace. I also participated in a couple of local races, including the Rugeley 10 miler and Warwick half marathon, which were a great way to build my confidence and test my endurance. I raced wearing a running belt to practice carrying my own water and nutrition. My long runs on weekends gradually increased, peaking at 18.5 miles by the end of week 8. The feeling of completing those longer distances was invigorating and reassuring. On reflection, getting some races in early was a great way to connect with people, and they helped with setting realistic pace goals for the marathon.
Facing Challenges
It wasn’t all smooth sailing, though. During the Warwick Half I experienced some tightness in my left IT band and towards the end of the race I had some pain in my left knee whilst running a long downhill section, that made me fear that I was overtraining. After consulting with my colleagues, we figured out my glutes were simply getting tight and a bit of targeted massage and stretching seems to have cleared things up nicely.
Having made mistakes in the past I know the importance of listening to my body and adjusting my training accordingly, so I took it easier than planned for a few days following the race. Recovery became a priority, and I embraced the use of the foam roller, stretching, and taking time out to have proper rest days to allow my body to heal.
Nutrition and Hydration
From my experience over many years of running, I have realised how crucial nutrition and hydration are and I have certainly noticed the differences with marathon prep. I focus on a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats.
I also find a protein rich post workout recovery shake helps speed up the repair, so I always take some calories on board straight after a run, within 30 minutes of finishing.
Meal prepping became a game-changer for maintaining my energy levels and ensuring I had the right fuel for long runs. I am also experimenting with different gels and hydration strategies during runs to discover what works best for my body. So far, I like a mix of SIS electrolyte and Maurten gels and salt sticks for extra electrolytes. Without this I would be prone to cramps and risk eventually hitting the wall!
Mental Preparation
Beyond the physical aspects,
I’ve found that mental preparation is equally vital. I started incorporating mindfulness techniques such as visualization and positive affirmations into my routine. During tough runs, I remind myself why I began this journey and that every mile brings me closer to the finish line.
Community Support
One of the most rewarding aspects of this training journey has been the community aspect. I’ve connected with fellow runners through local clubs and social media, receiving tips, encouragement, and even running partners for long runs. The camaraderie has been uplifting, reminding me that I’m not alone in this endeavour.
Upcoming Challenges
As I move into the final stretch of my training, I have a few key races and milestones ahead. My goal is to complete a 20-mile long run soon, and I’m excited (and slightly anxious) about it! I have to continue to build my weekly mileage up over the next few weeks, peaking around 65 miles, before starting to taper back to allow some recovery in the final weeks leading up to race day. I have my eyes set on a few events in the coming months, before and after London, and I can’t wait to cross that finish line and experience the buzz of the crowds lining the city streets.
Final Thoughts Training for a marathon is a rollercoaster ride of physical and emotional ups and downs.
With every mile, I learn a little more about resilience, determination, and celebrating small victories. With every marathoner I see in the clinic I gain another insight. I’m grateful for the support I’ve received so far and can’t wait to share the final outcome of this journey with all of you.
Thank you for following along on my marathon training progress! If you have any tips, advice, or stories of your own, I would love to hear them. Please email me at
johnh@painreliefclinic.co.uk
Here’s to the road ahead! Happy Running!
If you would like to help me reach my goal of raising £2,300 towards Roy Castles lung cancer charity, here is my link:
I am reaching out for your help with a project that I am involved with outside of the Nicky Snazell Clinic.
Sadly, a forced relocation for Uttoxeter Cricket Club has meant that our juniors don’t have even the most basic training facilities they need to excel.
https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/uttoxeterccdevelopment2025
As some of you will know, I am chairman of Uttoxeter Cricket Club. We are a volunteer-led community cricket club which has rapidly grown over the past 6 years since it was unexpectedly forced to move away from its home of 70 years at Uttoxeter Racecourse. At short notice, it relocated to Marchington - the only local ground available and we began rebuilding our club. We moved with only 6 junior players and are now proud to boast over 150. Unfortunately, we lack even the basic training facilities which they need to excel and I am determined to correct this.
We are crowdfunding to raise the money required to install training nets at our ground in Marchington, currently we have none. The cost of these is a staggering £42,000. We are still £24,000 short.
Sport England has generously agreed to match every pound we raise up to £12,000, meaning every pound we raise is vital.
Please help us by sharing this post and by donating what you can.
Please be aware that Crowd Funding automatically applies a 10% tip and that this amount can be adjusted via a slide bar.
Please click on the following link.
https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/uttoxeterccdevelopment2025
However, you can avoid paying a tip if you click on the box below the slide bar, ‘Enter Custom Amount’ and enter zero.
Thank you in anticipation.
Kindest regards,
Dave
For thousands of years of human existence, change was very slow, so much so that a person who lived over two thousand years ago in BC would probably be able to identify with and exist in the 1700’s.
But then changes started to become more rapid and by 1900 change was at a different level. How then might we compare change since 1900?
If we take the total change that occurred in the 100 years from 1900 to 1999, then the same level of change was experienced in just the next 16 years from 2000 to 2015. That reduced to a mere 6 years from 2016 to 2021.
The forecast is that we will have seen the same level of change in only 4 years from 2022 to 2025
With the ever-increasing pace of artificial intelligence development, the forecast is that it will then be down to just 1 year, 2026! Put another way, by the end of 2026, we will have experienced 4 times the amount of change in the years 2000 to 2026 than occurred from 1900 to 1999.
And change will only get faster beyond 2026.
A speaker at the Future Human conference in Dubai this year stated
2025 will be the last year of human existence as we know it
Powerful words indeed and even now difficult to make meaningful sense out of. But the message is clear and that’s why Alan & Nicky are going to be spending more time meeting world thought leaders to keep at the forefront of changes that are going to influence health and longevity.
Most people simply won’t have the time to keep abreast of change and how that may affect their longevity and health. That’s why we will do our utmost to keep you informed of what’s happened, happening and likely to happen.
Keep an eye out for future blogs.