Katy McDonald

Growing up, I always had an interest in the science of the human body and knew that I wanted a job where I could help people. As a member of the Scotland rowing team from age 15-20, I also had a keen interest in sport and physical activity and would have loved a job where I could combine these interests. In 2021 I was studying for a PhD, based entirely in a lab, and felt that I was really lacking the job satisfaction that comes from working directly with people. During this time, I also injured my back in the gym and had to go to see a physio. I was so impressed by the way my physio combined her problem solving skills with exercise therapy and hands on techniques to treat my pain, and I knew this was the job for me. I left my PhD to begin gaining experience in healthcare, working in elderly care for a year before beginning my MSc in Physiotherapy. Throughout my degree, I loved working with patients on placement and the feeling of being able to help someone in pain return to doing what they love is so rewarding – best decision I ever made!

Expertise

Katy uses a combination of manual therapy techniques, patient education and exercise therapy to treat a range of musculoskeletal conditions and promote healthy living and wellbeing.

Experience

Katy is a newly qualified physiotherapist, with a keen interest in musculoskeletal injuries, elderly care and sports. Having recently completed her MSc degree in Physiotherapy, Katy has had experience working in both NHS and private MSK settings, along with medicine of the elderly and community placements as a student. Prior to beginning her degree, Katy has experience working in a care home as a member of the activities team.

Life outside work

I love nothing more than going for a nice run, relaxing in a yoga class or getting my strength training done in the gym.

My favourite thing

Has to be brunch in the sun after a long run, probably at Portobello beach, or enjoying a couple of drinks at the rugby (life is all about balance!)