Dr. Emma Hargreaves

Qualifications

• Diploma in Physiotherapy 1986 (Newcastle Polytechnic)
• BSc (Hons) Therapeutic Studies 1992 (Northumbria University)
• PG Cert Women’s Health Physiotherapy 2002 (Bradford University)
• PhD Feasibility, safety and acceptability of Acupuncture for OAB Symptoms 2023 (Northumbria University)

About

Dr. Emma Hargreaves is a physiotherapist with nearly 40 years of experience in the NHS. Over the past 22 years, she has specialised in pelvic health, treating a wide range of conditions with a particular focus on continence. Emma has seen first-hand the profound impact that these often-hidden conditions can have on an individual’s physical and mental well-being. Her approach emphasises simple yet effective interventions that can significantly enhance patients’ quality of life.

Emma first trained in acupuncture 10 years ago under Carl, quickly recognising the transformative benefits it offered her patients. Her passion for acupuncture inspired her to pursue a PhD, during which she investigated its impact on OAB symptoms. Her work included leading a Cochrane Interventional Review and reignited her love for learning, deepening her ability to appraise research critically.

Emma firmly believes that acupuncture can be seamlessly integrated alongside other therapeutic measures to optimise patient care and improve resource efficiency. As part of a quality improvement project, she introduced a multi-bed acupuncture clinic for OAB patients within the NHS, successfully reducing waiting times for treatment by an impressive 90%.

Now a full-time tutor with Breeze Academy, Emma teaches on the Entry, Foundation, and Pelvic Health courses. She is passionate about sharing her expertise and enthusiasm for acupuncture with new course delegates, empowering them to deliver effective, patient-centred care.