Circle Rehab - Staff biographies

My name is David, and I am the Associate Director of Clinical Services at Circle Rehabilitation.

With over 20 years of experience as a registered physiotherapist, my journey has encompassed various specialities and settings within both the NHS and private sector. I qualified as a registered physiotherapist from the University of Birmingham. My career began at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, where I completed both junior and senior rotations. I followed up this foundational experience by undertaking community work and taking on positions in private practices, further broadening my expertise in rehabilitation.

In 2014, I completed my MSc at the University of Birmingham and had the opportunity to lecture on postgraduate courses, sharing my knowledge and passion with the next generation of physiotherapists. In 2016, I joined the largest UK private healthcare group, Circle Health Group at Circle Rehabilitation. By 2021, I assumed my current role as Associate Director of Clinical Services. Both the team and I are committed to making high-quality rehabilitation accessible to all, ensuring patients can optimise their potential.

I am passionate about rehabilitation and dedicated to providing the environment, facilities, and quality care necessary for patients to optimise their potential. My mission is to ensure high-quality rehabilitation is accessible to everyone, fostering an environment where patients can thrive.

Outside of my professional life, I am a devoted father to two children, a son and a daughter, and a proud dog owner. I enjoy staying active by going to the gym, playing football, and spending quality time with my family.

With over 20 years of experience in Neurological Rehabilitation, I serve as the Clinical Services Manager for a large team of dynamic allied healthcare professionals at Circle Rehabilitation. My extensive background as a Specialist Neurological Physiotherapist has driven my dedication to improving the lives of individuals. My career spans both the NHS and the private sector, including a period as an independent practitioner. This diverse professional journey has given me a comprehensive understanding of healthcare delivery, allowing me to effectively guide and support my team in providing exceptional care.

My career has been centred around delivering high-quality rehabilitation services to enhance the lives of neurologically impaired patients. I manage a dedicated team of Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) and support workers, providing guidance and support to ensure excellence in patient care. My passion for neurorehabilitation is driven by the profound impact it has on individuals' quality of life and functional abilities, making my work deeply rewarding.

As a leader, I am committed to fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for my team. I mentor my team, ensuring they have the resources and encouragement needed to excel in their roles. Additionally, I am an active volunteer with “Inspire the Future,” where I raise awareness among young people about the critical roles therapists play in healthcare, encouraging them to consider careers in this rewarding field. Through this volunteer work, I strive to inspire and prepare the future workforce for the challenges and rewards of healthcare.

Outside of work, I am a proud and busy mother of three children. In rare moments of leisure, I value spending time with friends and family and indulging in spa weekends to relax and recharge.

I am a dedicated and passionate professional, committed to improving the lives of my patients and supporting the development of current and future healthcare professionals.

As a rehabilitation specialist consultant, I have immersed myself in the education and training of rehabilitation medicine. Working alongside a multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals, I play a key role in creating treatment programmes and plans for patients with complex neurological needs.

I was inspired to pursue a career in rehabilitation because I saw real value in enablement, developing patient-led treatment programmes that align with their goals.

I began my career in stroke rehabilitation, where I quickly recognised broader challenges in patient care within the UK. Rehabilitation wasn't always integrated into the care pathway, and I saw significant opportunities to make a difference for patients and improve the overall approach to rehabilitation in the UK.

Recent events, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic, have highlighted the growing need for focused recovery and re-enablement stages of illnesses or conditions. This period has also increased public and healthcare awareness of the gap between rehabilitation needs and available services.

I was drawn to Circle Rehabilitation because of its innovative approach. I was fascinated by the new technology Circle brings to the West Midlands. While traditional personal rehabilitation is maintained, Circle offers advanced technology that surpasses mainstream rehabilitation services.

In the West Midlands, I see scattered rehabilitation services. I believe Circle's role is to unify these services, standardise the approach, and fill existing gaps.

Our shared goal is to help people achieve their best possible outcomes. The staff here are enthusiastic and ready for a fresh start, all working towards a common goal. Their attitude and enthusiasm are evident as soon as you meet the team.

I graduated from the University of Naples in 2009, focusing on the relationship between disability and impairment in muscular dystrophy patients. Specialising in rehabilitation medicine, I completed my training in Bologna and at the Duke of Cornwall Spinal Cord Injury Centre in Salisbury in 2015. My thesis compared recumbent rehabilitation with early mobilisation following spinal cord injury. Additionally, I pursued my interest in osteopathy and physical medicine by earning a university degree from Bobigny University in Paris in 2014.

Since passing the European exam in 2015, I have been a member of the European Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Board. Before taking up my consultant post at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, I worked at the National Spinal Injuries Centre in Aylesbury and The Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability in London. I am also a member of the British Society of Rehabilitation Medicine and its trauma and musculoskeletal special interest groups. Internationally, I collaborate with pain specialists through the Pain School in Hungary, where I completed a Pain fellowship and became a certified pain interventional sonologist.

My passion for rehabilitation stems from personal family experiences and growing up in a medical family. I aim to change perceptions of rehabilitation in Birmingham and across the UK. For me, rehabilitation is how all medical specialties come together. It's about the whole person, their mental health, social connections, and the people around them. Rehabilitation is a broad specialty.

At Circle Rehabilitation in Birmingham, I serve as Clinical Chair and Lead Consultant, overseeing and leading rehabilitation programmes with a multidisciplinary team. Our medically-led programmes at Circle Rehabilitation and Circle Health clinics across the UK incorporate world-class equipment and expertise. We also have access to advanced diagnostic tools at The Priory Hospital and other Circle Health Group hospitals.

In my free time, I enjoy various sports, playing the acoustic guitar, and performing with my band, the Rehab Pandemaniacs, formed during the COVID pandemic to raise funds for rehabilitation. I have a passion for food, particularly from my native Italy, and love exploring new dining experiences.

I studied Medicine at the University of Southampton before moving to the West Midlands for my post-graduate training. After obtaining my MRCP qualification, I specialised in Rehabilitation Medicine, focusing on the care of patients with complex neurological disabilities.

Currently, I work as a Consultant in Birmingham, both in acute and community settings, supporting patients from the hyperacute phase through to their reintegration into the community. I am also involved in research and in the education and supervision of medical students.

My interests include the rehabilitation of patients with:

• Stroke
• Traumatic brain injury
• Acquired brain injury
• Prolonged disorders of consciousness
• Spasticity

I have been serving as a Consultant Physician in General Internal Medicine since 2003, focusing on Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Lipid Metabolism. Throughout my career, I have initiated and overseen nurse-led diabetic renal review clinics across Birmingham and established pioneering community-based diabetes clinics that have set benchmarks nationally.

In addition to my clinical leadership, I have played a pivotal role in shaping national healthcare policies, collaborating with organisations such as DUK, RCP, GMC, CQC, ABCD, JBDS, and NICE. I have facilitated the development of several national guidelines, focusing on areas such as metabolic medicine, diabetes renal disease, and innovative therapies for obesity, including new oral and injectable therapies like Saxenda.

Beyond policy and leadership, I am actively engaged in day-to-day ward-based patient care, medical emergencies, and on-call duties, ensuring a comprehensive approach to patient wellbeing and clinical excellence.

I am Amrita Mahal, a consultant speech & language therapist with 18 years of clinical experience in both the NHS and private healthcare. I offer a broad range of specialist, evidence-based therapeutic techniques for various swallowing, voice, and communication needs.

My expertise includes:

- Dysphagia: Addressing swallowing impairments resulting from long-term neurological conditions or acquired brain injury
- Dysphonia: Treating clinical voice disorders secondary to medical conditions, functional voice use, and voice in professional practice
- Speech, language, and communication disorders

My name is Katie White and I run a weekly private GP practice at Circle Rehabilitation. In collaboration with The Priory Hospital, this service offers convenient appointment times and access to additional services such as diagnostic tests, imaging, physiotherapy, and specialist referrals. Same-day appointments may be available.

With extensive experience in primary care, I provide comprehensive healthcare to adult patients of all ages. I specialise in diabetes management, offering personalised care and expertise in managing Type 2 Diabetes, including GLP1 (injectables) and insulin treatment. I also advocate for holistic health, encouraging dietary modifications and physical activity.

My dedication extends to managing a range of chronic conditions, including hypertension, cardiovascular disease, respiratory issues, mental health, joint conditions, and autoimmune diseases. I have specialist training in weight loss medication.

After graduating with honours from the University of Birmingham in 2008, I began my career in hospital medicine. In 2017, I completed my GP training and became an NHS GP partner in South Birmingham in 2020.I also contribute to medical education as a GP trainer, sharing my knowledge with future healthcare professionals. Outside of work, I enjoy leisurely walks with my Labradoodle and actively participate in my local tennis team.

To book an appointment via our online booking service please see Dr Katie White's profile page

I run a weekly private GP practice at Circle Rehabilitation in Edgbaston. This service offers convenient GP appointments throughout the week and access to additional services such as diagnostic tests, imaging, physiotherapy, and specialist referrals. Depending on availability, same-day GP appointments may also be possible.

I am dedicated to providing exceptional care. In addition to my experience as a general practitioner, I have a special interest in learning disabilities and joint injections, and I hold a Diploma in Occupational Health.

After earning my Doctor of Medicine degree with Honours from the University of Birmingham in 2003, I completed my General Practice training in South Birmingham. I attained Membership of the Royal College of General Practitioners with Distinction in 2008. Since then, I have served as a GP Partner in Harborne, focusing on patient-centred care that emphasises continuity and accessibility.

Outside my clinical duties, I am passionate about medical education and mentorship, fostering professional development among other healthcare practitioners. I am also a strong advocate for using technology to enhance healthcare delivery, recognising its potential to improve patient outcomes.

To book an appointment via our online booking service please see Dr Arun Bahal's profile page

I run a weekly private GP clinic at Circle Rehabilitation in Edgbaston. This service, in collaboration with The Priory Hospital, offers convenient GP appointment times throughout the week and access to additional services such as diagnostic tests, imaging, physiotherapy, and specialist referrals. Subject to availability, same-day appointments may also be available.

I graduated from the University of Birmingham Medical School in 2013 and completed my GP training in Solihull, where I honed my skills and developed a passion for providing comprehensive healthcare services to the community. Currently, I am a GP Partner at a respected practice in Birmingham.

I am also deeply involved in medical education, actively teaching and mentoring medical students, and serving as a GP Trainer to nurture the next generation of General Practitioners.

I aim to create a comfortable environment that fosters open communication and collaboration between patient and clinician. I take the time to listen and understand my patients' concerns, tailoring treatment plans to meet their individual needs. My commitment to empowering patients and sharing knowledge makes me a valued asset to the medical community.

To book an appointment via our online booking service please see To book an appointment via our online booking service please see Dr Amit Rajput's profile page

I am Dr Gurjit Bhogal, a Consultant in Sport and Exercise Medicine appointed to the Centre of Musculoskeletal Medicine at Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, Birmingham in 2015. My passion lies in helping individuals from diverse backgrounds return to physical activity and optimal health.

With a robust background in professional sport, I serve on the medical panel for the England and Wales Cricket Board and currently hold the position of England Senior Women's Team Physician. Previously, I served as Lead Physician for the England Senior Men's Cricket Team and had the honour of being appointed as Chief Medical Officer for prestigious events such as the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy and the highly successful 2019 Cricket World Cup.

From 2015 to 2023, I served as a Club doctor for Aston Villa Football Club. I earned my medical degree from the University of Birmingham Medical School in 2005 and completed an MSc in Sport and Exercise Medicine at The University of Nottingham in 2010. Initially trained as a General Practitioner, I pursued higher specialist training in Sport and Exercise Medicine, completing it in 2014.

Throughout my career, I have served as Sports physician for various esteemed organisations including the English Institute of Sport, British Triathlon Federation, Worcester Wolves Basketball team, Kidderminster Harriers FC, Worcestershire County Cricket Club, Warwickshire County Cricket Club, Worcester Warriors Rugby Club, and Bristol Bears Rugby Club.

To book an appointment via our online booking service please see Dr Gurjit Bhoga's profile page

I am Dr Girija Sadalage, a Consultant Neurologist at Circle Rehabilitation in Birmingham. My sub-specialist interest lies in Neuro-Immunology, with a focus on Myasthenia Gravis, on which I conducted three years of dedicated research. I have extensive experience in managing a broad spectrum of neurological conditions, spanning acute and chronic illnesses.

My medical journey began with training at the University of Mysore in India, followed by Neurology training in the West Midlands. I hold a PhD in Clinical Neurology from the University of Nottingham, reflecting my commitment to advancing knowledge in the field.

Since 2018, I have served as a Consultant Neurologist at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust, where I oversee specialist clinics in neuroimmunology and neuromuscular disorders. Additionally, I conduct general clinics encompassing diverse specialties such as epilepsy, headache, Parkinson's disease, and Inflammatory nervous system disorders.

My clinical interests extend to conditions like Myasthenia Gravis, autoimmune encephalitis, neuroimmunology, and neuromuscular disorders, where I strive to provide comprehensive and personalised care to my patients.

To book an appointment via our online booking service please see Dr Girija Sadalage's profile page

I am Dr Shamji, a Consultant in Sports and Exercise Medicine based in the Centre for Musculoskeletal Medicine at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital. With extensive experience in elite sport, I have held senior positions within High Performance Teams, where I have been responsible for safely reintroducing many athletes to high-level competition following significant and complex joint, muscle, and tendon injuries.

My dedication lies in providing specialised, individualised management tailored to all levels of physical demand. Drawing from my collaborations with top specialists and rehabilitation teams nationally and internationally, I have developed a nuanced understanding of effective treatments for challenging injuries and pain presentations across diverse populations.

As a Fellow of the UK Faculty of Sports and Exercise Medicine, I have led and coordinated medical and rehabilitation teams as the Head of Medical Services at Aston Villa FC for several years. Previously, I served as Chief Medical Officer at Walsall FC and held medical officer roles at the English Institute of Sport, where I cared for Paralympic athletes. Additionally, I had the privilege of serving as a field of play team leader at the London 2012 Olympics and provided care to military personnel as a Sport Physician at Cranwell Regional Rehabilitation Unit.

I am particularly proud of my initiative, 'Prescription for Exercise', which received support from Public Health England and Birmingham City Council. This initiative aimed to empower clinicians in delivering physical activity advice to inactive patients with, or at risk of, chronic diseases. Recognised as a Priority initiative by Birmingham Clinical Commissioning Group from 2013 to 2015, it was adopted by over 80 GP surgeries across the city, promoting healthier lifestyles and improved wellbeing among the community.

To book an appointment via our online booking service please see Dr Ricky Shamji's profile page

I am Mr Gallagher, and my career in the NHS began in a regional civilian and military trauma unit in Birmingham, where I honed my expertise in musculoskeletal and trauma specialties. Working in multidisciplinary settings has been pivotal in my career, allowing me to appreciate the collaborative efforts that deliver optimal outcomes for our patients.

Throughout my career, I have cultivated strong relationships within multidisciplinary teams, including physiotherapists, sports doctors, orthopaedic surgeons, radiologists, GPs, chiropractors, osteopaths, strength and conditioning teams, and soft tissue therapists. Effective communication within these teams is crucial for achieving the best results for our patients, and learning from diverse disciplines continues to enrich my clinical practice, making it both stimulating and rewarding.

My expertise covers a wide spectrum of clinical areas: I specialise in managing polytrauma patients with lower limb involvement, work with diverse sports populations, and have extensive experience in neurological conditions like acquired brain injuries and Cerebral Palsy. Additionally, I provide specialised care for ankle-foot orthoses management, inflammatory joint diseases, and medico-legal assessments related to lower limb trauma cases, ensuring comprehensive care and expert guidance.

My dedication to advancing patient care through comprehensive, interdisciplinary approaches underscores my commitment to excellence in orthotic and rehabilitation practices.

To book an appointment via our online booking service please see Mr Gallagher's profile page

I completed my National Specialist Registrar training in Clinical Neurophysiology at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals in 2002, with valuable attachments at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, as well as Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital in London. Since then, I have been practicing as a Consultant in this specialised field, focusing on diagnosing a variety of neurological conditions through consultations, clinical examinations, and specialised tests using advanced computer-aided equipment.

For 17 years, I served as the clinical lead at the Clinical Neurophysiology Department at City Hospital (Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust), a leading provider of neurophysiology services in the West Midlands, where I continue to work part-time. My commitment to teaching and training led me to serve as the Specialty Committee Chair in Clinical Neurophysiology for the West Midlands Deanery from 2010 to December 2022. Additionally, I was a member of the National Specialty Advisory Training Committee in Clinical Neurophysiology with the Royal College of Physicians (JRCPTB) in London from 2010 to 2022, and I chaired the Educational Committee of the British Society of Clinical Neurophysiology from 2014 to 2021.

My clinical practice encompasses Nerve Conduction Studies, Electromyography, and EEG investigations for conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathies, epilepsy, and more. I am particularly interested in quantitative EMG studies and regularly deliver lectures at local and regional meetings and teaching programmes on various topics in Clinical Neurophysiology.

To book an appointment via our online booking service please see Dr Mytheen's profile page