Angela Petrocchi - Owner, SWISSPHYSIO
What inspired you to have a career in physiotherapy?
I always loved sport and been interested in medicine, but I also I was often injured. So physotherapy has been a “natural choice” I feel very lucky to do what I love every day, since more than 30 years in the iconic Metro station in Tynemouth.; helping patients become painfree and return to the activities they enjoy.
How has physiotherapy changed in recent years?
Physiotherapy is developing into a digital, evidence-based and patient-centred profession focused on self-management, injury prevention, function and long-term outcomes. Digital tools such as telehealth, wearables, exercise software, ultrasound and shockwave therapy now support more accurate diagnosis, personalised treatment and remote rehabilitation.
What are the most common misconceptions people have about physiotherapy when they first walk through your doors?
There are still a few classic myths, even with “Dr Google.” Many people think they need a scan before treatment, that one session should fix everything, or that pain is just part of getting older. In reality, physiotherapy is about understanding the problem, building confidence, and helping people move and function better over time.
Can you share a patient success story that really highlights the difference physiotherapy can make to someone?
A patient with severe shoulder and arm pain had been off work for over five months and was told it was neck-related. Following assessment, I identified a rotator cuff tear, arranged a steroid injection, and guided active rehabilitation and strengthening. He has now returned to lighter duties, showing how physiotherapy restores function and benefits both patient and employer.
Many people associate physiotherapy with sports injuries. What other conditions or challenges can physiotherapy help address?
Physiotherapy supports much more than sports injuries or muscle and joint problems. It helps people manage conditions affecting neurological health like a stroke or MS, breathing, balance, pain, recovery after surgery, pregnancy and postnatal wellbeing, and long-term health.
Overall, physiotherapy helps people reduce pain, improve mobility, build strength, increase independence, and live better with ongoing conditions.
How important is the relationship between physiotherapist and patient in achieving successful outcomes?
A strong therapeutic relationship helps patients feel listened to, respected, and understood increasing trust and motivation, engaging with their rehabilitation.
It also allows the physiotherapist to tailor treatment to the patient’s goals and lifestyle. Empathy, encouragement, and clear explanations can also reduce anxiety and improve confidence, especially when recovery is slow or painful.
Physiotherapy isn’t about blaming the body—it’s about helping people understand it, trust it, and use it better.
What emerging treatments, technologies, or trends in physiotherapy are you most excited about?
I’d be most excited about treatments and technologies that make physiotherapy more personalised, measurable, and accessible. I also think tele-rehabilitation and app-based exercise programmes are valuable because they can support consistency, especially for people who struggle to attend regular appointments. Overall, I’m interested in innovations that keep the patient at the centre — technology should support clinical reasoning and human connection, not replace it.
What role does your practice play within the local community?
I am honoured to have earned the trust of so many people in the Tynemouth community, where I live and work. Through SWISSPHYSIO I support residents, businesses, schools, and sports clubs with recovery, injury prevention, posture education, and long-term wellbeing. I have helped companies reduce sickness absence linked to lower back pain, delivered educational talks and proudly sponsor Marden Volleyball Club.
Looking ahead, what are your ambitions for the business and for the future of physiotherapy in the region?
My ambition is to grow a sustainable physiotherapy business known for excellent outcomes and genuinely personal, patientcentred, accessible care. I want physiotherapy to play a bigger role across the region in prevention, education and long-term wellbeing, working with communities, healthcare providers, sports organisations and employers to help people stay active, manage pain earlier and avoid decline.
How do you unwind?
Movement is my passion, as a profession as well as relaxation. I love to keep fit in the gym challenging myself, I love playing a team sport such as volleyball and I love playing golf with my husband as well as dancing and teaching Argentine tango. And before sleeping I need my dose of crime fiction reading L.J Ross books.
www.swissphysio.co.uk