Meet Joe
Joseph Rainford
Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage
Currently studying M.Ost (Master of Osteopathy) at the University College of Osteopathy
Student Member of the General Osteopathic Council
My journey in healthcare has been shaped by my own experiences as a patient. From a young age, I wanted to understand the human body and the reasons why health can suddenly change.
More importantly, I wanted to help others in the same way I had been helped to “pass it on”, so to speak. Before becoming ill, I led a very active lifestyle. I was a competitive swimmer, triathlete and skier, and sport was a huge part of my life.
At the age of 14, I was diagnosed with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS) after a long and frustrating search for answers. Following my diagnosis, I began treatment with Dr Raymond Perrin and shortly afterwards, Gail Sumner at the Health Recovery Clinic. Recovery was gradual, but over time I was able to return to education, attend university and eventually begin working within the NHS, something that once felt impossible.
At the age of 20, I experienced a significant relapse after pushing myself beyond my limits and neglecting the treatment routine that had helped me recover. I became largely bedridden, struggling with debilitating fatigue, constant migraines and severe limitations in everyday life. Returning to treatment with Gail marked the beginning of another recovery journey, rebuilding my health step by step.
During this period, I realised I wanted to dedicate my career to helping others facing similar challenges. Rather than allowing my own experiences to define me, I wanted them to become the foundation of a career where I could support people through injury, illness and recovery with the same compassion, encouragement and care that had been shown to me.
That journey inspired me to pursue manual therapy through sports massage and osteopathy. Alongside working as a sports massage therapist at the Health Recovery Clinic, I am studying for my Master’s degree in Osteopathy at the University College of Osteopathy.
I enjoy working with a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, from sports injuries and exercise recovery to the aches and pains that can arise from everyday life. My osteopathic training has deepened my understanding of how the body’s systems work together, allowing me to combine hands-on treatment with movement advice, rehabilitation and patient education to support long- term recovery rather than simply treating symptoms.
I believe every patient has their own story, goals and challenges. Whether you are recovering from an injury, managing persistent pain or looking to improve your physical wellbeing, my aim is to provide treatment that is tailored to your individual needs, helping you move with greater confidence and get back to doing the things you enjoy.
Living with ME/CFS has given me first-hand insight into what it means to lose your health, but also how life changing the right care can be. It taught me that recovery is rarely a straight line, and that being listened to, understood and supported can make all the difference.
Today, I am incredibly grateful to be studying osteopathy, working with patients and continuing to rebuild the active life I once thought I had lost. Every step of that journey reminds me why I chose this profession and why I am passionate about helping others on theirs.
Why Sports Massage?
As part of my osteopathic training, I chose to complete an additional Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage. While hands-on treatment forms a fundamental part of osteopathic education, I welcomed the opportunity to gain additional recognised qualifications that would further develop my manual therapy skills and allow me to begin treating patients independently while continuing my
Master’s degree.
The diploma complemented the assessment, soft tissue and rehabilitation skills I was alreadydeveloping through my osteopathic studies, while providing valuable experience working with a wide range of patients in a clinical setting. It strengthened not only my practical skills but also my confidence, communication and clinical reasoning, qualities that I believe are essential to delivering effective, patient-centred care.
Having experienced first-hand the benefits of manual therapy throughout my own recovery, I developed a deep appreciation for the difference skilled hands-on treatment can make. Sports massage became the ideal opportunity to begin putting that passion into practice, helping people reduce pain, recover from injury and move with greater confidence.
Although many people associate sports massage solely with athletes, I enjoy treating people from all walks of life. Whether you are recovering from a sporting injury, dealing with the physical demands of work, managing long-standing aches and pains or simply looking to improve your movement and wellbeing, my approach is always tailored to your individual goals. I enjoy working closely with patients to understand not only where their symptoms are coming from, but also how we can work together to support their recovery, improve their movement and help prevent future problems.
As I continue my Master’s degree in osteopathy, I see sports massage as an integral part of my development as a practitioner. Every patient I meet provides an opportunity to learn, refine my skills and deliver the same compassionate, evidence-informed care that has had such a profound impact on my own life. I hope to continue adding feathers to my cap as I progress.
Working at the Health Recovery Clinic
Working at the Health Recovery Clinic is incredibly meaningful to me. Years ago, I first walked through these doors as a patient looking for help. I never imagined that one day I would return as part of the clinical team. It is a privilege to now support others on their own recovery journeys in the same place that played such an important role in rebuilding my own health. Every day serves as a reminder of why I chose this profession and the difference compassionate, patient-centred care can make.
Outside the Clinic
Outside of the clinic, I enjoy keeping active and spending as much time outdoors as possible. I am a keen hiker and a member of a local hiking club, and I am looking forward to getting back into snow sports by taking up snowboarding. I love travelling, from weekend breaks around the UK to exploring new places abroad.
I enjoy spending quality time with friends, whether catching up over food and drinks or getting together for the occasional tabletop role-playing game. After my own experiences with ME/CFS, being able to enjoy these moments is something I never take for granted.
Looking Ahead
As my career progresses, I look forward to continuing my professional development, expanding my clinical skills and broadening the range of treatments I can offer my patients. I believe that learning never stops, and I am committed to continually developing my knowledge to ensure I can provide the highest standard of care throughout my career.
Fun Fact
I can name all 206 bones in the human body (rest assured, I won’t be quizzing you on them!).
