"Spine Fit Clinic St Helens Hospital"

I was referred to the spine fit clinic via the physiotherapist at my GP's practice as I have lower back pain and a painful left hip, which I have had for a long time.

I was asked to attend half an hour before the rest of the class and the physiotherapist explained the aim of the clinic and took me round showing me the 10 pieces of equipment I would work on for 2 minutes. She stressed that I must go at my own pace.

The rest of the group came in and we started off by doing a warm up session prior to the serious stuff and whilst we were warming up there was friendly banter going on which immediately made you feel part of the group.

As a newcomer to the group the physiotherapist kept a close eye on me and encouraged and assisted me and saw that I was well hydrated whilst watching and helping and encouraging the others. After we had completed the course we did cooling down session before we all sat down and various aspects of spine care were discussed and information leaflets were distributed.

I was delighted with my progress over the 5 weeks and wish I could have continued, however after my last session the physiotherapist had another chat to me about the way forward and gave me a list of various activities that were available, should I wish to continue to exercise.

It really was a fantastic experience and I cannot speak more highly of the physiotherapist taking the course.

The only negative comment I have is with the parking facility. I don't know whether it is at that particular time of day, but I found I had to arrive 10 minutes before the course started to enable me to find a space to park.