About Us

John Flinn Physiotherapy

John Flinn Physiotherapy clinic based in the Faverdale area of Darlington. We have a wealth of knowledge across all musculoskeletal injuries and conditions with a particular interest in sports and running injuries.

We are located next to the Arriva Depot on Faverdale Industrial estate. The clinic consists of multiple treatment rooms, an on-site gym studio and Cardio suite to use for injury rehabilitation.

The Team

John Flinn - MCSP / HCPC / BSc Hons

John has 10 years of clinical experience as a physiotherapist. He studied Physiotherapy at Manchester Metropolitan University before going on to work in the NHS, private clinics, a GP surgery and a semi-professional football team.

During his time working in hospital, he developed knowledge across many areas of Physiotherapy (Orthopaedics/ Respiratory/ Neurology/ Musculoskeletal (MSK)) which further developed his understanding of a range of medical conditions, allowing him to treat complex patients in a holistic manner.

Outside of work John enjoys playing football and running. He has a passion for helping runners overcoming injuries so they can achieve their goals.

He has also completed Level 1 & 3 APPI Pilates courses and the AACP Acupuncture course. He uses Pilates and Acupuncture as adjuncts for treatment of chronic pain conditions.

Kristian Malcolm - BSc Sport Therapy / BSc Physiotherapy / MSc Sports Medicine

Kristian completed his Sports Therapy degree back in 2003 and started working in academy football with Leeds United before moving to Hartlepool United to head their academy medical department.  He also worked with Sunderland AFC in both academy and first team roles and well as freelance private practice.

Kristian later completed his Physiotherapy degree before embarking on a Sports Medicine masters program.

Following on from this Kristian has worked as the Senior First Team Physiotherapist at Accrington Stanley, followed by a move to Swindon Town Football Club to be their Head of Medical.  Kristian then went on to lead the medical department at Burton Albion Football Club in EFL League One as the Head of Medical and Performance for the 24/25 campaign.

Throughout this time Kristian has worked with a multitude of international footballers who will be gracing next years FIFA World Cup.

Kristian is Level 5 FA Advanced Trauma Management trained.

Kristian has also worked with a range of individual athletes, on a 1 to 1 basis, across a range of sports including athletics and tennis. Many of these athletes compete at international and Olympic level.

In his spare time, he enjoys running, motorsport and going to the gym.

Lisa Coates - BSc Hons

Lisa is a passionate physiotherapist who completed her BSC hons degree in Physiotherapy at Teesside University in 2024. She has post graduate experience in stroke rehabilitation and sports physiotherapy for both Stockton RFC womens rugby team and Darlington RFC Colts. Additonally, she has placement experience in Respiratory, Trauma and Orthopaedics, MSK and Women's health.

Lisa is excited to embark on a career that combines a love of movement and manual therapy to empower others to take control of their health. She is particularly drawn to working with women who are looking to return to exercise after pregnancy, injury, or other various life stages, from pre-natal to post-menopause, and address the unique challenges they face.

Outside of physiotherapy, Lisa is an avid Olympic weightlifter, and advocates that this passion has not only improved physical strength but also taught valuable lessons about discipline, perseverance, and overcoming challenges.

Beth Higgins - BSc Hons

I am a newly qualified physiotherapist and completed my BSc in Physiotherapy at Northumbria University this Summer. During my studies, I gained valuable clinical experience in a wide range of areas, including MSK, Orthopaedics, Stroke Rehabilitation, Neurology and Emergency Medicine. Alongside my studies, I gained experience as a Bank Physiotherapy Assistant in the NHS covering a variety of wards, which helped to build my confidence and strengthen my clinical skills.

I have a particular passion for sports injury rehabilitation, not only helping patients recover from their injury, but also guiding them through the process of rebuilding strength and confidence, allowing them to return to the activities they love!

Outside of physiotherapy, health and fitness continues to play a big role in my life. As a qualified personal trainer and gym instructor, I enjoy regular strength training and sharing my passion for wellbeing with others.

What Our Customers Are Saying!

Thanks to my first session with John this afternoon my neck pain has significantly improved. Professional, friendly and was seen straight away! Highly recommended

Been to see John this morning with lower back pain and struggling to walk. John talked me through the problem I was having, then started to work on my back. I now have a lot more movement and less pain, back to see him later this week. Excellent service!

Jack totally sorted out my torn quad. Gave me a fab rehab plan and finally got me back to running again! Excellent service, he went above and beyond what I expected and will definitely go back if I get injured again. Excellent.

I have had wonderful treatment from both John and Jack for neck and knee pain. Both so much better, I can highly recommend this firm.

My first visit today and was seen by becca.shes amazing a credit to your team.she was so helpful explaining everything she was doing couldn't fault her Thank-you! Also the receptionist was so friendly and helpful too.wouldnt go anywhere else for treatment now!!

Excellent service from John. Really listened and engaged before the treatment, which was very good. Highly rated.

John's physio knowledge is top quality, and he did a great job figuring out what was going on with my back. Thanks again John, great to see you as always.

John has been great at helping me overcome some lower back pain. He also has some videos on his Facebook and Instagram pages for helping with mobility and stretching, which have been very helpful during lockdown. Keep up the great work John!

L. Atkins

M. Haddick

D. Charman

D. Outhwaite

A. Brown

M. Webster

Connor B

A. Keavney