Paralympic star opens new physiotherapy unit at Stepney Green hospital

A Paralympic Gold medallist returned to east London to help a hospital open its new pyhsiotherapy department.

Sarah Storey OBE, the multiple Paralympic Gold medallist, was at the BMI The London Independent Hospital, Stepney Green for the official opening of its new physiotherapy department.

She was joined by children from the local east London community and Dr Nick Webborn, a Consultant Sports Physician at the hospital, who was the Chief Medical Officer for the 2012 GB Paralympic team.

Sarah, a former swimmer who triumphed in cycling at this year’s London 2012 Paralympic Games, has a Paralympic career spanning 20 years with 11 gold medals, 8 silver and 3 Paralympic bronze medals.

She spoke to the children about the importance of exercise and following and achieving their dreams. Sarah said: “As this amazing year ends the spotlight is being taken off the Paralympic and Olympic athletes and being put on schools and children across the country. It is important we nurture the future sporting talent to compete on the national stage but sport and fitness is also vitally important in promoting a healthy lifestyle.”

Dr Webborn said: “Participation in any sport, teaches children to stretch their limits and learn sportsmanship and discipline. But any sport also carries the potential for injury. By knowing the causes of sports injuries and how to prevent them, you can help make athletics a positive experience for your child.”

The physiotherapy department at BMI The London Independent Hospital offers specialist treatment in the field of sports rehabilitation as well as orthopaedic assessment, spinal care, pain management, respiratory and cardiovascular care and pre and post-operative care for patients. The unit also has a large open plan gym and five private treatment rooms.