Lucy MacDonald, BSc(Hons)

My name is Lucy MacDonald and I am a passionate physiotherapist with a wealth of experience and a deep commitment for helping others.

I earned a first-class honours degree in Physiotherapy from Manchester University in 2001 and have been dedicated to the profession ever since. I have worked in major teaching hospitals across London and Manchester.

In my current role, I specialise in musculoskeletal, orthopaedics, rheumatology, and vestibular rehabilitation within a local hospital. Additionally, I fulfil the role of an Advanced Level Practitioner, leading the development of a new rehabilitation pathway for breast cancer patients undergoing reconstruction within the NHS...

How it started

I've always been passionate about sport and physical activity, so I knew my career had to reflect that. I love working with people, understanding their needs, and helping them achieve their goals - making physiotherapy the perfect fit.

I have competed at a high level in netball and still play in a local league, but my main passion is swimming and water polo. Having swum at national level, I maintain a strong connection to the sport.

Since 2002, I have worked with British Swimming at both national and international events and was recently the Venue Medical Manager at The Sandwell Aquatics Centre for the Birmingham Commonwealth Games. Beyond swimming, I provide physiotherapy support for British Diving, Touch Rugby, and Ultimate Frisbee at events throughout the year.

I also serve as Team Lead Physiotherapist at the London Marathon finish line annually and proudly act as an ambassador for 5K Your Way - Move for Cancer at Newbold Comyn Parkrun. Additionally, I lead hydrotherapy sessions for the National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society in Coventry and maintain strong links with local hydrotherapy services.

What drives me

Seeing people overcome doubts and achieve their goals is what drives me. I am passionate about helping others recognise the mental and physical benefits of movement in any form. Beyond my hospital work, I have been teaching Pilates for 15 years, covering all levels, including ante/post-natal, cancer, and seated classes.

Fully qualified in these areas, I love the social connection and the opportunity to promote exercise as a tool for both physical and mental well-being.

My approach

An initial assessment is crucial - not just to understand the physical aspects but also the individual as a whole. This allows me to provide a detailed explanation of findings and collaboratively discuss treatment options and goals.

I have completed numerous postgraduate courses and qualifications across various areas of physiotherapy. In my NHS role, I also supervise junior staff and physiotherapy students from local universities, supporting their development and clinical expertise

Clinical interest

Musculoskeletal – especially shoulders, jaw, elbow, hips and knees
Orthopaedics – post operative rehabilitation
Vestibular rehabilitation (dizziness, loss of balance and the feeling of spinning)
Cancer rehabilitation
Ante and post-natal rehabilitation