Nicola Cockburn

Director, Founder and Specialist Physiotherapist

I have over 15 years of experience working in the NHS specialising in neurological and care of the elderly physiotherapy. Ranging from inpatient care, stroke rehabilitation, day hospital, co-ordinating falls classes, continence physiotherapy and running the Neurological Outpatient service at Liberton Hospital in Edinburgh.

During my maternity leave to have my third child and taking a career break, I needed a specialist operation in which the recovery was challenging. This put my life goals and worklife balance at the forefront of my mind. The challenges facing the NHS with patients requiring to be discharged as soon as they were medically stable was not allowing the time to let me provide the highest quality of rehabilitation to patients of allow them the opportunity to reach their full functional potential. Therefore I thought - I need to make a change! Its time to be brave and leave the NHS to provide physiotherapy rehabilitation to patients in their own homes to really make a difference to their quality of life and be the physiotherapist I love and dreamed to be!! And that was how HomePhysio By Nicola Ltd was born 3 years ago!!

I have never once regretted taking this daunting step and the business has grown in strength with welcoming Dr Preethi Hassan Shivnngowda and Wendy Graham to the team!! New exciting plans still lie ahead so watch our blog and social media for updates!!

Meet Our Team!!

Dr Preethi Hassan Shivannagowda

Senior Physiotherapist

Hello, I'm Dr. Preethi Hassan Shivannagowda, Ph.D., and I bring over five years of experience and expertise in physiotherapy to HomePhysio By Nicola Ltd, focusing on various patient care areas, including neurological rehabilitation, paediatric rehabilitation, and women's health.

I've had the privilege of working closely with patients in wards, intensive care units, and home care settings, delivering hands-on therapy to promote healing and well-being.

My passion lies in early intervention and detection of neurodevelopmental disorders in newborns, aiming to support their healthy development from day one. I strongly believe that prompt intervention can positively impact a child's future.

Additionally, I specialise in paediatric rehabilitation, aiding children in achieving independence and mobility. I'm committed to ensuring every child reaches their fullest potential.

Furthermore, I'm dedicated to neurological and musculoskeletal rehabilitation, assisting patients in regaining functionality and improving their quality of life.

Moreover, I have a special interest in women's health, understanding and addressing the unique healthcare needs of women at every stage of life, from antenatal to postnatal care and menopause.

In addition to my experience, I hold certifications in dry needling, cupping (both dry and wet), and instrument-assisted soft tissue manipulation, further enhancing my ability to provide comprehensive care to my patients.

Wendy Graham

Technical Instructor Physiotherapy Assistant

Wendy brings over 20 years of experience from her role in NHS Borders, where she supported people in hospitals and the community to live more independently and safely at home. She has worked with a wide range of patients, particularly those recovering from stroke, illness or managing long-term conditions.

At HomePhysio By Nicola, Wendy supports our physiotherapists by carrying out home treatment sessions, assisting with therapy programmes, and offering practical advice to help people stay active and confident in their own homes, progressing their long term goals.

She has a strong background in stroke rehabilitation, falls prevention, group-based rehab, and equipment assessments, and is particularly skilled at making meaningful changes that improve day-to-day life.

Friendly, down-to-earth, and highly experienced, Wendy is known for her calm approach and ability to build trust with clients and families. She understands how important it is to feel safe and comfortable in your home environment—and works hard to make that a reality for the people she supports.

Outside of work, she enjoys walking and exploring the beautiful Borders countryside.

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