An established therapist with a private clinic in Malton has received national recognition as a state-registered physiotherapist.

Ed Jowitt has run the Ryedale Clinic for Physical Therapies in the Market Place, Malton, for the past nine years.

To achieve the prestigious recognition by the Health Profession Council, Ed had to complete a minimum level of training in physiotherapy, which included massage, manipulation therapy, exercise therapy and electrotherapy, and had to have a minimum of three years in practice.

With a healthy business in more ways than one, Ed has found the market town environment perfect for his traditional therapeutic work. "The business grew much faster here than it did in Manchester where we used to live," he said.

"I think that is a lot to do with the fact that word of mouth is the best form of advertising. Everybody knows everyone here and there is a lot of trust - and you have to stand by your reputation. I'm still here after nine years so I must be doing something right."

Ed, 51, formerly a civil engineer, took up physiotherapy after receiving a shoulder injury in a hang-gliding accident. He was so impressed by the treatment he received that he started training in it part time.

After practising in Manchester, he and his wife Jean moved to Malton. "We love Malton and the surrounding area, and we found that the clinic fits in very well with the market town environment," he said. "It is great being in the market place, centrally located and easy for parking."

Ed generally helps a lot with neck and back problems, but he also deals with a lot of sports injuries. Local clientele include members of Malton and Norton Rugby Club, as well as local cricketers.

Before the London Marathon or the Great North Run tend to be busy times for him. He also treats rheumatism and arthritis, and has helped people with headaches and migraines, which are often linked to the back and neck.

"It is quite an old-fashioned style of therapy," said Ed. "It goes back to the 19th century, and it is what physiotherapy evolved from."

Ed uses a number of different techniques to address individual needs. This can be very successful in helping both recent injuries and quite long-standing conditions.

"I would say what is unique about what I do is that it's an individual combination. If something doesn't work I will do something else. Whether it's massage, stretching people, joint rocking or manipulation, it is tailored to the individual need," said Ed.

Updated: 15:54 Wednesday, March 09, 2005