About Dr Jo

Doctorate: CAN ANY INFORMATION GAINED THROUGH A MANUAL MUSCULOSKELETAL ASSESSMENT USING HANDS-ON BE USED TO INFORM BEST PRACTICES IN MUSCULOSKELETAL HEALTHCARE?

My Personal Story

When I was just 8 years old, I faced bullying at school because of my learning disabilities. It was a tough time, and I felt isolated and vulnerable. To cope with the mental and emotional strain, I turned to Martial Arts. It gave me a sense of strength and protection, both physically and mentally. Over time, I earned two black belts in two different disciplines, and today, Martial Arts continues to be a powerful source of resilience and discipline in my life.

After school, I pursued a career in electro-mechanical engineering, finding passion in designing innovative systems for industries that truly make a difference. From hydraulic systems for heavy-lifting vehicles to radio communication networks for emergency services, my work as a lead engineer was both challenging and rewarding.

But life isn’t always a smooth journey. At the age of 22, my health deteriorated drastically. I found myself weighing nearly 20 stone—about 10 stone more than I should have been. On top of that, I developed deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and suffered a pulmonary embolism (PE). These were dark, frightening times. I had lost control of my health, and I felt overwhelmed. But help arrived in an unexpected way—through the health and fitness industry. It was here that I met Sally-Ann Raffell, an aerobics instructor who would end up saving my life. With her guidance and the power of fitness, I transformed myself. In just eight months, I reached my ideal weight of 10 stone and regained my strength, health, and confidence.

However, the path I thought was laid out for me took another turn. After the Gulf War, the industrial recession closed many doors for engineers like me in the UK. But instead of seeing it as an end, I found a new beginning. I realized my true passion was helping others find health and strength as I had. In 1991, I became a certified Personal Trainer and poured my heart into supporting my clients—everyone from the general public to celebrities and Olympic athletes. I built a thriving business, and it was incredibly fulfilling to see others achieve their goals.

Then, in 2007, life threw me another curveball. One morning, I woke up and couldn’t move or feel my legs. It was terrifying. After a week in the hospital and several potential diagnoses like Guillain-Barre Syndrome, I learned I had retro spondylolisthesis and two prolapsed lumbar discs. The consultant’s words were devastating: “You’ll never run, lift weights, or practice Martial Arts again.” For someone whose life revolved around movement and fitness, it felt like my world was collapsing.

But instead of giving up, I chose to see this challenge as a chance to grow. I retired early from Personal Training and returned to education, driven by a desire to understand not only why this had happened to me, but also how I could help prevent others from suffering the same fate. In 2011, I earned my qualification as a Clinical Anatomist from Keele University, and in 2013, I became a Clinical Biomechanist at the University of Chichester. These experiences equipped me with the knowledge and skills to create protocols that can help prevent musculoskeletal ill-health from becoming a life-altering burden for others.

Today, I work side by side with dedicated professionals across various fields, all of us united by a shared goal: to offer the best possible care and support for our patients. Collaboration is at the heart of everything I do, because I believe that together, we can make a bigger impact. My approach to health is holistic, addressing the biological, psychological, and social factors that influence a person’s well-being.

My mission is simple but powerful: to continue helping people live healthier, more fulfilling lives. I’m committed to integrating everything I’ve learned along my journey to make a positive difference, and I’m honored to walk this path with those who need support.

Want to Learn More About the Patients Dr. Jo Abbott Has Supported?

Discover the real stories and transformative experiences of the many patients Dr. Jo Abbott has guided on their journey to better health. With a holistic approach and a deep understanding of clinical biomechanics, genetics, and personalised wellness, Dr. Jo has helped individuals from all walks of life achieve their health goals.

From athletes seeking peak performance to those recovering from chronic conditions, and individuals simply aiming for a better quality of life, Dr. Jo’s patient success stories highlight her ability to create tailored plans that address each person’s unique needs. Her approach emphasises not only treating symptoms but uncovering the root causes of health challenges and providing the tools needed for long-term improvement.

Read about:

• Chronic Pain Relief: How Dr. Jo’s expertise in biomechanics and personalised care plans have helped patients overcome persistent back, neck, and joint pain.
• Improved Mobility and Function: Discover how patients with musculoskeletal issues regained mobility and returned to their favorite activities with Dr. Jo’s guidance.
• Nutritional and Genetic Insights: Learn how patients have benefited from Dr. Jo’s advanced NutrEval® testing and genetic analysis, receiving personalised nutrition and lifestyle recommendations that transformed their energy levels, mood, and overall health.
• Athletic Performance Optimization: See how Dr. Jo has helped athletes, from beginners to Olympians, enhance their performance, reduce their risk of injury, and recover faster with precise, science-based strategies.
• Holistic Wellness and Mental Health: Find out how Dr. Jo’s holistic approach, which considers both the body and mind, has empowered patients to achieve balance, reduce stress, and improve their overall sense of well-being.

Dr. Jo’s commitment to her patients goes beyond the initial consultation. She offers continuous support and tailored advice, ensuring that every individual feels heard, understood, and guided throughout their health journey. If you’re curious about the kind of care you can expect, or if you’re looking for inspiration from others who have taken control of their health, take a closer look at the experiences of those she has supported.

My Qualifications & Experience

Ever since I was young, I’ve always been the child who asked “why.” That simple question has been the driving force behind my lifelong quest for knowledge, and today, I’m still the adult who feels compelled to critically analyse everything presented to me. Whether it’s a new technique in fitness, a clinical treatment, or scientific research, I approach it with an insatiable curiosity and a need to challenge assumptions. This relentless pursuit of understanding has earned me the nickname of “forever student” from my family, colleagues, and even my patients—but it’s a title I wear with pride.

Over the years, I have committed myself to learning across various health, wellness, and clinical disciplines. I’m not content with just absorbing information; I need to dissect it, test it against evidence-based science, and understand its practical application in real-world settings. This mindset ensures that every qualification I earn is not just a credential but a tool that I use to create real, tangible results for my clients and patients.

My Academic Journey

My formal journey into the world of health and wellness began with an intense curiosity about the human body—how it works, how it moves, and how it can break down under strain. This led me to study Clinical Anatomy at Keele University, where I developed a deep understanding of human structure and function. But anatomy alone wasn’t enough. I wanted to understand the ‘why’ behind musculoskeletal disorders, injuries, and diseases that affect so many people. This drive to uncover the root causes of these issues brought me to the University of Chichester, where I qualified as a Clinical Biomechanist. There, I explored the intricate biomechanics of the human body, combining my engineering background with anatomical knowledge to address complex physical challenges.

Through my academic career, I’ve gained a unique blend of qualifications that go far beyond the surface. My studies have ranged from biomechanics and musculoskeletal health to nutrition, fitness, and injury prevention, giving me a multi-dimensional view of health and well-being. This broad scope allows me to look at a patient holistically, understanding that the body is not just a collection of separate parts but an interconnected system influenced by a variety of factors.

Certifications and Expertise

In addition to my formal degrees, I have continuously expanded my knowledge through certifications in a wide range of specialised areas. These include:

• Personal Training – A foundation that allowed me to work with clients from all walks of life, from the general public to Olympic athletes, creating individualized fitness and wellness plans.
• Clinical Biomechanics – Expertise that goes beyond fitness to deeply understand how the body moves and why musculoskeletal issues arise.
• Nutrition – Understanding the critical role of nutrition in supporting health, recovery, and performance.
• Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation – Techniques and protocols to help patients avoid injury or recover effectively from physical trauma, addressing both acute and chronic conditions.
• Musculoskeletal Health Consultant – Working with organizations such as the Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service to reduce workplace-related injuries and improve overall health outcomes.

Challenging the Status Quo

While my qualifications are numerous, what sets me apart is how I approach these disciplines. I don’t accept information at face value. I constantly question and test the methods and theories I come across, ensuring they hold up to rigorous scientific scrutiny. This critical analysis has allowed me to innovate and adapt, developing unique protocols and treatment plans that are rooted in science but tailored to the individual needs of my patients.

For instance, during my time as a Musculoskeletal Health Consultant, I wasn’t content with merely offering solutions to reduce workplace-related injuries. I wanted to know why these injuries were happening in the first place, and how we could prevent them at the root cause. This approach led to a significant reduction in musculoskeletal disorders and minor illnesses within just 12 months—outcomes that were not only impactful but sustainable in the long term.

A Lifelong Learner

Even with all my qualifications, I remain a dedicated student. The fields of health, wellness, and biomechanics are constantly evolving, and I believe it’s my responsibility to stay ahead of the curve. I regularly attend conferences, workshops, and seminars, and I’m actively involved in scientific research. I also enjoy collaborating with other professionals across disciplines, learning from their expertise, and integrating it into my own practice.

My commitment to continuous learning ensures that my patients always receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care available. Whether I’m working one-on-one with clients in my clinic or presenting my research at scientific conferences, my goal remains the same: to help people lead healthier, more fulfilling lives by empowering them with the knowledge and tools they need to take control of their own well-being.

• Women, Nutrition, and Exercise 1995
• BodyMax 1997
• Spin Instructor 1997
• Step Aerobics Instructor 1993
• Nike Total Body 1994
• Aerokick Instructor 1994
• Studio Coordinator 2000
• BodyPump Instructor 2001
• Post Natal Assessment & Exercise Prescription 2008
• Injury Prevention and Optimal Performance 2008
• Childhood Obesity Prevention Training 2008
• BodyMaster Method 2010>2014
• Building the Ultimate Low Back 2010 & 2012
• Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning (PTLLS) Sector 2010
• Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) 2012 & 2015
• Kinesiotaping 2013
• Neurokinetic Therapy (NKT) 2015
• Womens Health Women with PGP, SUI, POP and/or DRA 2015
• Cranial Sacral Therapy 2017
• Clinical Mentoring with Diane Lee – Certified 2018
• Applied Kinesiology 2018 & 2019
• Heart Rate Variability (HRV) use in Clinical settings 2020 & 2021

First Aid

• Trauma Medic 2002
• Paediatric First Aid 2008

Convention

• Professional Edge 1993
• Nutrition for Sport & Exercise 1994
• Sports Nutrition 1994
• Professional Edge 1994
• Pro Edge 1997
• Pro Edge 1999
• Pro Edge 2000
• Energy & Excellence 2000
• FitPro Spring 2008
• BASES 2019
• World Congress of Low Back and Pelvic Girdle Pain 2019

Formal Education

• Electro-Mechanical Engineering 1987
• Personal Trainer Diploma 1991
• Exercise to Music 1992
• Diploma in Biomechanics Coaching 2008
• Gym Instructor 2011
• Sports Massage 2011
• PGCert Applied Clinical Anatomy 2012 (Keele University)
• Acupuncture and Dry Needling 2013
• MSc in Sports Biomechanics
• Accredited Practitioner of The Bowen Technique 2016
• Integrated Systems Model (ISM) Certified 2018
• Dynamic Ultrasound Imaging 2020 (Keele University)
• Temporomandibular Disease/Dysfunction 2015 – Present day
• Phlebotomist 2021
• Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Clinical Biomechanics (University of Chichester) 2022

Associations & Memberships

• The Aerobics Organisation of Great Britain
• Register of Exercise Professionals (REPS)
• British Association of Sports and Exercise Scientists (BASES)

Taught at

• University of Chichester
• International College of Osteopathic Medicine (ICOM)
• Assisted with Diane Lee

Presented at

• Biomechanics Special Interest Group 2012 (BASES)
• Bowen 2015
• Movement & Mechanics Conference 2014
• Integrated Allied Health Professionals Conference 2016
• Bowen 2018
• Integrated Allied Health Professionals Conference 2019
• World Congress of Low Back and Pelvic Girdle Pain 2019
• The International Federation of Manual and Musculoskeletal Physical Therapists Incorporated (IFOMPT) Conference 2024
• Finnish Sport Physiotherapy Association (SUFT) Congress 2025

Innovations & Patents

• Extruded Hydraulic Tilt Jack
• Motorcycle Visor
• Green Fuelled Vehicle

Biohacking

• Ketogenesis (Keto, Ketogenic)
• Epigenetics
• Heart Rate Variability (HRV)
• Fasting & Autophagy
• Blood lactates

Specialist interests

• Temporomandibular Disease/Dysfunction
• Learning Disabilities
• Chronic Musculoskeletal Health Conditions (cellular & structure)
• Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Poly Vagal Theory
• Women’s Health
• Pre and Post Natal
• Children’s Health & Wellbeing
• Clinical Nutrition
• Prevention of ill health