A sciatica sufferer has praised our Exercise by Referral classes for helping her on the road to recovery.

Sheila Dungworth (75) from Holmesfield was referred onto the 12-week scheme by her physiotherapist after suffering from the condition, which can cause extreme pain in the bottom, backs of legs and feet.

After joining in with the low impact circuit classes and enjoying them so much, she now attends Dronfield Active once a week.

She has thanked our Healthy Lifestyles Instructor Georgia Limb for helping her to get moving again.

Sheila said: “It (the sciatica) has all gone now.

“I still had it when I started with Georgia, but the 12 weeks certainly helped and the whole experience was a lifting one.

“Georgia is very nice. The people are very nice there.”

Sheila praised the fun sessions, which take place to music and include activities such as a basketball challenge.

She added: “I haven’t done it before and I found I actually enjoyed it.

“It lifts you. You are not on your own. You are all wanting to get better.

“I’m feeling massively better.”

Georgia said: “I’m so pleased Sheila has benefitted from the scheme and is feeling better.

“It’s great to hear her physical symptoms have gone now, but she still enjoys exercising with us.”

To participate in the scheme, you must be aged 19+ and either make an appointment with your GP or complete the self-assessment tool on the Live Life Better Derbyshire website

Activities can include gym, swimming, low impact circuit training, cardiac rehabilitation, chair-based exercise and Forever Active. Other activities are available, but are chargeable at a pay-as-you-go-rate.

Pictured: Sheila (centre, purple jacket) with her friends at the low impact circuit training class.