Meet the team at straight back physio
Our objective is to provide exceptional local physiotherapy services for active adults and children, enabling them to recover completely from their aches, pains, and injuries. This way, they can fully enjoy their favorite activities in Cheltenham and the surrounding Gloucestershire areas, all from our conveniently located clinic.
Our objective can only be fulfilled through the expertise of our dedicated team at Straight Back Physio, which comprises chartered physiotherapists, acupuncturists, sports massage therapists, and Pilates instructors.
STUART FOSSELLA
Founder and Lead male Physiotherapist
BSc Hons Physiotherapy, BSc Hons Sports Science
With extensive experience in physiotherapy, I have had the privilege of working with the NHS, Nuffield Hospital, Cheltenham Town Football Club, and Cheltenham College. My expertise lies in assisting individuals with running injuries, back pain, and rehabilitation after surgeries, particularly hip and knee replacements. I employ hands-on techniques and tailored exercise programs to support my clients in returning to their favorite activities. Outside of the clinic, I enjoy quality time with my two children, running with my dogs, and mountain biking
SARAH FOSSELLA
Founder and Lead female Physiotherapist
BSc Hons Physiotherapy
Throughout my physiotherapy studies, I encountered various clinical environments, yet I always felt a particular affinity for outpatient orthopaedics and sports. After completing my degree, I began my career at Gloucestershire NHS Trust before specializing in outpatient orthopaedics. I have developed a strong passion for supporting female athletes, post-surgical patients, and adolescents. As a proud member of the Australian Physiotherapy and Pilates Institute, I enjoy combining my expertise in both areas to assist my patients in achieving their physical aspirations. Outside of the clinic, I cherish moments spent with my family and dogs, and I also dedicate time to training for and participating in ultra-marathons.
SOPHIE BROWN
Physiotherapist
masters MUSCULOskeletal physiotherapy
I am an experienced Physio with a Master’s degree in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and over seven years of MSK experience working within the NHS and privately. I specialise in treating musculoskeletal conditions, including sports injuries, chronic pain, and post-operative rehabilitation. My clinical approach combines manual therapy, exercise-based rehabilitation, and patient education to support recovery.
As a former national swimmer, I bring a unique understanding of sports-related injuries and performance demands, allowing me to deliver tailored rehabilitation programs for patients.
Outside of the clinic room I enjoy being outside and challenging my fitness with CrossFit, surfing, running and triathlons.
Luis De Sousa
Sports Massage Therapist
BTEC Level 4 in Sports Massage
As the result of a desire to change careers along with a keen interest in health and fitness I embarked on studying sports massage in 2009. Since I’ve worked with the renowned Rosslyn Park Rugby club in Barnes and at multiple health clinics throughout London. I moved to Cheltenham in 2015 where I joined The Nuffield Hospital. Here I worked closely with Dr Jaques, a doctor who has been involved with sports medicine for the past 30 years. Dr Jaques is the Director of Medical Services at the English Institute of Sport (EIS), which provides medicine and sports science services to summer and winter Olympic and Paralympic athletes. He and his physiotherapy team regularly referred patients to me for muscle tissue work.
