Welcome to
SV Physiotherapy
Suzanne Vernazza is a registered specialist Physiotherapist based in Gateshead. She offers expert and individualised assessment and treatment for pelvic health conditions, pregnancy related issues and longstanding pain.
She will personally support you from first contact and throughout your treatment. She will work with you to help you regain confidence, control and function of your body.
MORE ABOUT THE SERVICE
Pregnancy
Did you know that around 50% of women can get back pain and 20% pelvic pain in pregnancy? Did you know that these pains can be treated and improved?
A woman's body goes through a lot of change in pregnancy, and Suzanne is here to provide support and help to anyone who is struggling. You will be fully assessed and given an individualised treatment programme to help you manage and prevent any issues you may have in pregnancy.
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Postnatal care
Around 1 in three women will have urinary leakage after child birth. Also, 50% of women will have a degree of prolapse. Many women believe these conditions are part of being a mother and something they will have to live with as they get older.
This is NOT true!
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These conditions can be treated and prevented with the correct treatment.
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You will receive a thorough physical assessment after child birth which will ensure that you can return to exercise and function safely. Part of the assessment will cover pelvic floor function and assessment of your abdominal muscles to identify any remaining separation (DRAM). You will be involved in planning your treatment package so that your personal goals can be achieved without worry of prolapse, leakage or a long term need for pads.
Pelvic floor issues
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The pelvic floor helps to maintain normal function of the bladder, bowel and genital organs. Those who have issues with the pelvic floor commonly have symptoms such as bladder and bowel urgency +/- leakage, constipation, urinary retention, prolapse or pelvic pains (eg. coccyx pain, vaginismus, bladder pain or painful intercourse).
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Many of these conditions can feel embarrassing due to the intimate nature of the complaints. Please do not let this put you off seeking support. Suzanne is highly specialised in treating these conditions and will explain what is required in your assessment and treatment.
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A vaginal examination may be suggested as part of your assessment. If this is the case, the reasoning and options will be explained to you in more detail at your appointment. Vaginal examinations are optional so please do not worry. Suzanne will ensure you are comfortable at all times and will always modify and tailor the assessment to your needs.
Menopause
Due to the reduction of oestrogen in the peri-menopause and menopause many women will have symptoms that affect their pelvic and general health. A pelvic health physiotherapist has a wealth of knowledge that will help you to stay active and fit into your later years. Suzanne has undertaken additional qualifications to support women going through the menopause. Please let her know if you have any questions.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has many benefits. It is commonly used for pain management but have many other benefits such as improve sleep, mood and anxiety.
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Suzanne has completed both foundation and specialist qualifications in acupuncture. She offers general acupuncture for conditions such as arthritis or chronic pain, as well as specialising in acupuncture in pregnancy and for over-active bladder symptoms.
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Acupuncture can be used as a main treatment technique or in conjunction with other physiotherapy treatments (such as exercise, soft tissue massage and other pain management techniques).
If you are wondering if acupuncture may help you please get in touch.
Testimonials
"Suzanne has helped me a great deal. She is always professional, knowledgeable and passionate about her work. I would highly recommend contacting SV Physio if you need to."
Catherine
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ABOUT ME
My name is Suzanne and I am a Specialist Women's and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist. I really enjoy working in this speciality within the physiotherapy profession. Helping women and those in pain to learn about their bodies whilst helping them build confidence and regain control and function gives me great pleasure.
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I qualified as a Physiotherapist in 2003 and started my career in London, at St Mary's Hospital in Paddington. My experience working as a Physiotherapist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology started in 2004. Since then I have built up high level of expertise in treating musculoskeletal conditions in both private and NHS settings. I have gained a vast amount of knowledge and experience in areas including complex pain management, acupuncture and manual therapy. In 2018 I completed a post graduate certificate in Women's Health Physiotherapy and became a full member of the Pelvic, Obstetric and Gynaecological Physiotherapy (POGP) group.
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Being a mum to two young girls has given me first hand experience of the importance of the role of a pelvic health physiotherapist. I am passionate about improving care in this important but often neglected area.
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