We are delighted to introduce Dan Broadhead, our specialist Musculoskeletal Sports Podiatrist at Borders Podiatry and Performance Clinic. Dan brings a wealth of experience and a unique skill set, making him an invaluable member of our team.
Dan holds a BSc (Hons) in Applied Sports Science from Loughborough University and a BSc (Hons) in Podiatry from Huddersfield University. In addition to these qualifications, Dan has a Postgraduate Certificate in Musculoskeletal Diagnostic Ultrasound, making him a specialist MSK Sonographer focusing on the lower limb, foot, and ankle. This advanced expertise allows Dan to provide highly accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans for his patients.
Dan has a keen interest in foot mobilisation and manipulation, as well as exercise prescription for managing sports injuries. His dual background as a qualified Sports Scientist and Podiatrist enables him to expand his scope of practice into the field of sport and exercise. He currently works closely with rugby, athletics, and running clubs across the Scottish Borders and Edinburgh. Dan has had the privilege of helping Scottish marathon runners, medalists from the World Sprint Triathlon Championships, and ultra runners achieve their performance goals.
Dan’s expertise in running and athletics extends beyond his professional qualifications. He began athletics at the age of 7 and took up pole vaulting at 14. Over the years, Dan trained to a level that won him county, regional, and national titles as a junior athlete. His talent and dedication led him to represent Great Britain both in the UK and France. This personal experience of competing and training at a high level provides Dan with unique insights that he applies in his practice, greatly benefiting his patients, particularly those involved in sports and athletics.
In addition to his work with athletes, Dan is also skilled in Fascial Manipulation (Stecco Method), a specialised technique that helps reduce pain and movement dysfunction by restoring the normal mobility of deep fascia. He is one of the few podiatrists in the UK trained in this method, and the only healthcare professional in the Scottish Borders with this expertise.
Dan is also an experienced speaker, regularly presenting at major conferences and symposiums. He has spoken at the Foot and Ankle Symposium at Middlesbrough Football Club and is scheduled to speak again at the prestigious Foot and Ankle Show in Liverpool in 2025, following his success in hosting the event in 2021 at the Liverpool Convention Centre. His contributions to these events underscore his commitment to advancing knowledge and best practices in his field.
In addition to his clinical work, Dan has worked for multiple global orthopaedic and medical supplies companies, including Performance Health and Össur. His experience with these leading companies has further enhanced his expertise in biomechanics and orthotic prescription, allowing him to bring the latest innovations and techniques to his patients. Recently, Dan was selected as one of only six national shockwave tutors, working alongside the medical technologies company Physiquipe. This prestigious role highlights his expertise in shockwave therapy and his commitment to teaching the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Dan is a member of the Royal College of Podiatry and is registered with the Health & Care Professions Council (CH30742). He is also a member of the British Association of Sport and Exercise Scientists and the British Association of Sport and Exercise Medicine, reflecting his dedication to maintaining the highest standards of practice in his field.
Outside of work, Dan has a keen interest in all sports. He was once a member of the GB Athletics team and the UK U20 Pole Vault Champion, but these days, most of his time is spent chasing after his four young children.