About me

I’m 34 years old, reasonably active, and before my injury I regularly played 5-a-side football and tennis. I work a normal full-time job, and sport was always a big part of my week. I had never been to a physio of this type before, so this whole experience was completely new for me.

The problem before treatment

I had been unknowingly living with a torn ACL for almost two years. I kept playing football and tennis, thinking it was just a minor issue, and even several professionals didn’t pick it up until I finally had an MRI on my left knee. Once I was diagnosed and had surgery, I realised just how unstable and weak my knee had become. Daily movements felt cautious, I had swelling that came and went, and mentally I didn’t feel confident in my own body. The idea of twisting, turning or running properly again felt far away.

What made me seek help

Around three weeks after my ACL surgery, I knew I couldn’t recover alone. I wanted proper guidance from someone who knew the process, could push me safely, and help me rebuild strength the right way. I also wanted reassurance - this was the first major injury I’d ever had - so I needed someone who understood the physical and emotional side of recovery.

My treatment and rehabilitation journey

I started seeing Anthony Padgett, and from day one he made a huge difference. Not only was he incredibly knowledgeable, but he was also kind, patient and genuinely invested in my recovery.

Across 10–12 sessions over five months, he gave me a structured plan with exercises, hands-on treatment, education about the muscles around my knee, and loads of encouragement. Even when life got busy and I wasn’t able to complete all the “homework,” he never made me feel bad - he just motivated me to keep going.

Anthony also introduced hands-on Pilates movements, guiding me step-by-step. Sometimes he would deep-massage the knee when needed, which would immediately improve flexibility and reduce pressure. He even lent me an ice cuff to take home - something I wouldn’t have been able to afford myself - and it made a huge difference controlling swelling in the early weeks.

The results and progress

Every session I felt a little stronger. My confidence returned slowly but noticeably. My movement improved, swelling reduced, and I began trusting my knee again. By the end of my rehab, I genuinely couldn’t believe how much better the knee felt. I fully understood what my body needed and how to look after it.

Where I am now

I’m back to everyday activities, moving with confidence, and no longer afraid of twisting or turning. I feel educated, stronger, and more in control of my recovery long-term. I even recommended my mum to see Anthony because of how positive my experience was.

My message to others

Don’t lose hope - with the right guidance and consistency, you can come back stronger than you expect.

“If I ever need rehab again, I’d go straight back to Anthony.”

Many thanks,

Minesh Patel