Biography
Joanne Kennedy – MSc, NZRSP, MCSP, MACP
Jo Kennedy is a Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist based in Christchurch, with a particular focus on spinal conditions. She works with people experiencing back pain, neck pain, and more complex or persistent spinal problems, helping them understand their condition and supporting them to return to meaningful activity with confidence.
Jo is known for her expertise in spinal assessment and is often referred people with more challenging or unresolved presentations. She receives regular referrals from GPs, specialists, and surgeons for spinal cases. Alongside her private practice, she holds a part time role within the orthopaedic service at Christchurch Hospital, working as part of a specialist musculoskeletal triage team.
She works across two clinics in Christchurch—Port Hills Physiotherapy in Huntsbury and Sports Clinic on Bealey Avenue—allowing her to support a wide range of patients across the city.
Jo is Co-Chair of the New Zealand Manual and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapists (NZMMP), contributing to the development of musculoskeletal physiotherapy practice in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Originally from the UK, Jo holds two Bachelor’s degrees in Biological Sciences and Physiotherapy. She went on to gain a Master’s degree with distinction in Advanced Neuromusculoskeletal Physiotherapy from King’s College London. She has worked in both research and advanced clinical roles in London, including at National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery.
Since moving to Christchurch in 2018, Jo has continued to develop her specialist expertise, completing advanced training under Mark Laslett and achieving Specialist Physiotherapist status in 2024.
Jo takes a thoughtful, evidence-informed approach to care, combining clear explanations, detailed assessment, and tailored rehabilitation. She has a particular interest in helping people who feel stuck, uncertain about their diagnosis, or unsure how to move forward.
