Nathan – rebuilding strength & returning to rugby

Published 15 May 2025

After a series of repeat knee injuries on the pitch, Nathan, a national-level rugby player, underwent Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) reconstruction and associated arthroscopy in January 2024. Determined to return to playing, he came to the Hub to begin structured rehabilitation with Tom, a skilled MSK practitioner and Sports Therapist.  

With clear guidance from the surgical team and a comprehensive assessment at the Hub, Tom built a personalised rehab programme for Nathan to follow. This included targeted strength work, progressive movement training and a staged return to load, always with the long-term goal of getting back to the sport he loves. As his rehab has progressed, sport-specific drills have been carefully introduced, along with hands-on treatment such as sports massage and soft tissue work to support recovery. Tom continues to monitor Nathan’s strength, control and movement quality week by week, adjusting the plan as needed. 

The recovery journey after MPFL surgery is long and challenging, but with consistency, hard work and expert support, Nathan is moving closer to match readiness every session. His progress so far has been outstanding, and we are proud to be part of his return-to-play story. 

If you are recovering from surgery or unsure how to structure your rehab, we can help. Get in touch with the Hub to learn more. 

How can we help

We’re here to help you be your best. Our aim is to return you to comfortable and strong movement for a healthy, happy, pain-free life and we will support and guide you every step of the way.

Whether you’re experiencing problems with day-to-day activities or in achieving an important sporting goal, our Practitioners are kind, experienced and confident in helping you:

• Rehabilitate back, joint and muscle injuries and dysfunction
• Return you to, or improve your sport
• Prepare for or recover from surgery
• Recover from accidents
• Improve chronic pain
• Reduce discomfort from work-related issues

We focus as much on addressing the source of an issue as we do treating your painful symptoms, through a pathway of assessment and diagnosis, hands-on therapy, rehabilitation and education.