Meet our Team
Brook Physiotherapy was founded over 30 years ago by Dr Ian Cowell, Principal Physiotherapist and Director. Today, it is recognised as a leading spinal and sports injury clinic, with specialist expertise in persistent pain and evidence-based rehabilitation. Over the years we have assembled a comprehensive team with years of clinical experience in the management of neuromusculoskeletal conditions.
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We are committed to providing a high quality service and you can be confident in the knowledge that you will be treated by a physiotherapist with specialised skills enhanced by extensive post-graduate study.
Dr. Ian Cowell
Principal Physiotherapist | Specialist in Persistent Pain | CFT Educator
Dr Ian Cowell is a UK physiotherapist with over 35 years’ experience helping people overcome complex and persistent musculoskeletal pain. As Principal Physiotherapist and Director of Brook Physio, he is recognised for his expertise in treating cases that have not responded to conventional approaches.
Ian’s work is grounded in Cognitive Functional Therapy (CFT), an evidence-based method that addresses the physical, psychological, and lifestyle factors driving persistent pain. Through a combination of clinical expertise, clear communication, and collaborative problem-solving, he helps people make sense of the pain, rebuild confidence and return to meaningful activity.
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He holds a PhD from Imperial College London, where his research focused on enabling physiotherapists to deliver highly effective, patient-centred care. He also earned an MSc in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, receiving an award for clinical excellence.
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In addition to his clinical work, Ian is a certified trainer with the Evoolve Pain Care Academy, mentoring physiotherapists in CFT to deliver high-value, evidence-based care that drives real results for people living with persistent pain.
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Expert Care for Lasting Change:
Targeting the root causes of complex pain rather than temporary symptom relief.
One-on-one, personalised consultations tailored to each patient.
Integrating physical, psychological, and lifestyle factors to support long-term recovery.
George Michaelides
Associate
Having completed a BSc in Sports Science in 2002, George embarked on a career in physiotherapy and graduated in Physiotherapy from Kings College London in 2005. To develop enhanced diagnostic and management skills in sports injuries, George successfully completed a specialist MSc in Sport and Exercise Medicine at Queen Mary’s London in 2007.
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Over his last 8 years in practice George has worked in the NHS, football academies and the health and fitness industry. With his specialist knowledge in Sport and Exercise Medicine, George combines his experience and expertise in exercise prescription and physiotherapy intervention to facilitate speedy return to sport and enhanced performance.
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George has over 8 years experience working as a specialist Personal Trainer and endeavours to formulate training programs not only to achieve the best recovery but also ensuring that other facets of fitness are not lost. Having a fully equipped gym and studio on site ensures in-depth analysis of running and cycling injuries, and assessment of exercise technique to be fully explored.
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George's keen eye for detail has enabled him to consolidate his assessment and treatment skills in the field of musculoskeletal and orthopaedic therapy, and as such is in regular contact with patients referred by GP’s and consultants alike. George has a specialist interest in knee pain and persistent back disorders and has completed further courses in applied ergonomics, spinal manual therapy, acupuncture, cognitive functional therapy and manipulative techniques to enhance his practice and effectiveness.
Emma Smith-Taylor
Practice Manager
Emma manages the day-to-day running of Brook Physiotherapy, handling all administrative and account-related matters. She is your go-to person for appointment bookings and can assist with any questions about insurance claims or paperwork.
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Emma also leads our marketing efforts to keep you updated about the practice. If you have any queries or need support, Emma is happy to help.
What Our Patients Say
In my role as a fitness manager I have many clients that have asked me about various injuries and whether I could recommend a physiotherapist. I always have no hesitation in sending them to Brook Physio and explain to them how friendly and informative the staff are and how they put them at ease giving them a thorough and comprehensive examination compared with other clinics. After receiving treatment with Brook Physio, all my clients have reiterated one common theme, ‘If only I had gone to Brook Physio sooner! Many thanks Brook Physio.