Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy in Kent for Children, Adults and Older Adults
Our chartered physiotherapists help babies, children, teenagers, adults and older adults move better, recover from injury and stay independent.
Both are specialist children’s physiotherapists with NHS and private experience. They work alongside our private GPs at our clinic in Mereworth, a few minutes from Kings Hill, West Malling and Wateringbury. You don’t need a referral, and parking is free and right outside.
Who We Help
Children and teenagers
Both of our physiotherapists specialise in children’s physiotherapy. We help with hyper mobility, joint and muscle pain, sports and activity-related injuries, and recovery after injury or surgery. We also support children to build strength, confidence and independence at home, at school and in sport.
Back, joint and sports injuries
We asses and treat back and neck pain, shoulder, elbow and wrist problem, hip, knee and ankle problems, tendon and ligament injuries, and persistent or recurring pain. We also provide rehabilitation after surgery.
Staying steady: older adults
We help older adults stay strong, steady and independent. This includes improving balance and walking confidence, rebuilding strength after illness or a hospital stay, and keeping active with arthritis.
Meet Our Physiotherapists:
Steph Knight
Steph qualified from the University of Brighton in 2008. She has worked across the NHS and private practice in a wide range of clinical settings. She specialises in children’s physiotherapy and currently works as a Team Lead within specialist provision. At Kent Family Medical she sees children, teenagers and adults with musculoskeletal problems, from hypermobility and growing bodies through to sports injuries and back pain.
Steph believes in holistic care that helps patients build confidence and independence and manage their own conditions. She is a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy and the Association of Paediatric Chartered Physiotherapists.
Stephanie Knight
BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy MCSP MAPCP
Nicole Ruiz
Nicole qualified in 2021. In the NHS she has worked in musculoskeletal services, community rehabilitation, hospital care and community neurology. She now works as a Specialist Paediatric Physiotherapist. At Kent Family Medical she helps children build strength and confidence. She also supports adults and older adults to stay steady, active and independent in everyday life.
Nicole believes in family-centred care and in setting realistic, meaningful goals together. She is a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy and the Association of Paediatric Chartered Physiotherapists.
Nicole Ruiz
BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy
Why families choose us
Specialist children’s physiotherapists. Both of our physiotherapists are paediatric specialists, which is rare in a local clinic.
Working alongside our GPs. If you need an X-ray, a scan, a specialist referral or a medication review, our GPs are in the same building. Your care stays joined up.
Time to listen. Appointments are unhurried. You’ll leave understanding what’s going on and what to do next.
Easy to reach. Free parking right outside, an accessible clinic and [evening and Saturday appointments].
Built around you. Every treatment plan is tailored to your goals, lifestyle and stage of life. We focus on giving you the tools to manage your condition long-term.
What happens at your first appointment
Your first appointment includes:
- a detailed conversation about your symptoms, health and goals
- a physical assessment
- a clear explanation of what we find
- agreeing goals together
- a personalised treatment and exercise plan
For children, the appointment is relaxed and age-appropriate. A parent or carer stays throughout. Adults are welcome to bring a family member.
Follow-up appointments check your progress, adjust your exercises and keep you on track.
What to wear: loose, comfortable clothing. Shorts are helpful for hip, knee or ankle problems.
Do I need a GP referral to see a physiotherapist?
No. You can book directly with us. If you’d like, we can share our findings with your NHS or private GP.
Do you see children?
Yes. Both of our physiotherapists are specialist children’s physiotherapists.
Can I use my health insurance?
We don’t bill insurers directly. We’ll give you a detailed receipt so you can claim. Check your cover with your insurer before booking.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the problem. Some people need a single assessment and a home exercise plan, and others need a short course of treatment. We’ll give you an honest estimate at your first appointment.
Can someone come with me?
Yes. Parents stay with children throughout, and adults are welcome to bring a family member or friend.
What if I need a scan or to see a specialist?
Because we work alongside our GPs, we can arrange a GP review for an X-ray, a scan or a specialist referral if needed.
Book your appointment
Book online with Steph or Nicole, call us on 01732 79 24 24.
If you’re not sure whether physiotherapy is right for you or your child, get in touch and we’ll help you decide.
