Get to Know the Team Supporting Your Recovery
specialist experience you can feel from the first session
Say hello to the people in out team who keep Cheltenham moving. At Straight Back Physio, we’re a team of friendly humans (not robots… we checked) who love helping people feel stronger, looser and more confident in their bodies.
We’re the kind of team that celebrates your wins, laughs with you on the tough days and genuinely cares about getting you back to doing what you love. Each of us brings our own quirks, specialities and superpowers to the clinic, but we all share one thing: we’re here to make your recovery feel easier, friendlier and a whole lot less scary. Come meet the people who’ve got your back — literally.
Come Say Hello
Feel free to drop into the clinic anytime — we love a good chat, a friendly face, and helping you feel right at home the moment you walk through the door. You can find us at 90 Horsefair Street, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham, GL53 8JR .
STUART FOSSELLA
BSc Hons Physiotherapy, BSc Hons Sports Science
Stuart Fossella is the Founder and Senior Physiotherapist at Straight Back Physio, bringing years of diverse experience to patient recovery. He is a highly qualified physiotherapist who has supported individuals of all ages, from teenagers and everyday adults to athletes.
Stuart's professional background includes working with the NHS, Nuffield Hospital, Cheltenham Town Football Club, and Cheltenham College.
Areas of Focus and Expertise:
- Running Injuries: A main focus, helping runners overcome issues and return to their sport, often utilizing running analysis.
- Post-Surgical Rehabilitation: Expertise in assisting patients with recovery after surgery, particularly hip and knee replacements.
- Back Pain Management: Helping people overcome and manage back pain.
- Treating the Root Cause: Focused on detailed examination and treatment to find the underlying issue, not just addressing the symptoms.
Stuart is committed to helping clients regain strength, confidence, and mobility in a supportive environment, empowering them with the tools to prevent future issues.
Interests Outside the Clinic:
When not working, Stuart enjoys being outdoors, which includes running with his dogs, mountain biking, and spending quality time with his two children.
SARAH FOSSELLA
BSc Hons Physiotherapy
Sarah Fossella is a Founder and Senior Physiotherapist at Straight Back Physio. She has broad experience in general, adolescent, and sports physiotherapy, having worked in the NHS and private sectors both in the UK and overseas.
Areas of Focus and Expertise:
- Orthopaedics and Sports Injuries: A special interest in the assessment and treatment of orthopaedic issues and sports-related injuries.
- Female Athletes and Adolescents: Passionate about supporting female athletes and guiding adolescents through their recovery process.
- Post-Surgical Patients: Dedicated to helping patients regain strength and confidence after surgical procedures.
- Physiotherapy and Pilates: A proud member of the Australian Physiotherapy and Pilates Institute (APPI), she frequently blends physiotherapy techniques with Pilates principles to help clients achieve their physical goals.
- Patient Approach: Known for her calm, reassuring approach and commitment to helping patients achieve lasting results.
Professional Background:
Sarah has extensive experience, including time working alongside Stuart Fossella to provide comprehensive Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy services for students at Cheltenham College.
Interests Outside the Clinic:
Life outside the clinic for Sarah is about balance, which includes treasuring time with her family and dogs, and challenging herself by training for and taking part in ultra-marathons.
SOPHIE Lyon
masters MUSCULOskeletal physiotherapy
Sophie Brown is a Senior Physiotherapist at Straight Back Physio, distinguished by her high level of post-graduate education and practical experience. She holds a Master's in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and has over seven years of experience working both in the NHS and the private sector.
Areas of Focus and Expertise:
- Musculoskeletal Conditions: Specialises in helping people manage a wide range of musculoskeletal issues.
- Sports Injuries: Dedicated to treating and rehabilitating injuries sustained through physical activity.
- Chronic Pain: Experienced in developing strategies for the long-term management of chronic pain.
- Post-Surgical Recovery: Supports patients through recovery following surgery.
- Patient Approach: Known for being energetic and approachable, with a focus on improving everyday mobility and easing pain to boost patient comfort and confidence in daily life.
Unique Insight:
As a former national swimmer, Sophie offers first-hand insight into the demands of high-level sport and the specific challenges of injury. This background helps her design tailored rehabilitation programs that genuinely fit each patient’s needs.
Interests Outside the Clinic:
Sophie maintains a highly active lifestyle, enjoying various outdoor pursuits including CrossFit, surfing, running, and taking on triathlons. She believes that staying active keeps her connected to the same goals she supports in her patients: moving well, feeling strong, and enjoying life.
Georgia Esson
BSC Hons Physiotherapy
Georgia Esson is our youngest member of the physiotherapy team at Straight Back Physio, bringing fresh energy and a strong passion for helping people feel their best.
Areas of Focus and Expertise:
- Rehabilitation: Georgia has a special interest in rehabilitation, supporting patients through every stage of their recovery journey.
- Patient Approach: She is dedicated to guiding gentle exercises, celebrating progress, and being a friendly face for patients.
- General Physiotherapy: Dedicated to helping clients stay healthy, active, and confident in their movement.
Professional Background:
Having grown up locally, Georgia completed her studies at the University of Gloucestershire. She has a strong background in physiotherapy and is excited to be part of a team focused on quality care.
Interests Outside the Clinic:
Georgia is always on the go. Her personal interests include keeping fit, exploring new places, and taking on physical challenges such as HYROX.
Chris
respiratory physiotherapy
Chris is the latest member of our physiotherapy team who is due to join us in July/August. Chris is a specialist Respiratory Physiotherapist who has over 20 years experience, supporting people to improve their breathing and providing personalised care tailored to each client.