A new technique based in neuroscience called Neurophysical Enhancement Training (NET) has helped an incomplete paraplegic woman improve her horse riding ability.

Kate Osmaston, 51, who lives in Taunton, has said "the BrainWorking Recursive Therapy NET therapy is truly incredible".

"Honestly, the therapy is amazing," she said.

At age 20, Kate was in a horrific car accident that left her with life-changing injuries – fractured back, left leg and right arm – leaving her as an incomplete paraplegic.

She spent months in hospital and rehabilitation and although she can walk using crutches, it’s hard going so Kate spends much of her time in a wheelchair.

Kate had to give up horse riding soon after the accident but has always wanted to get back to it. At age 43 she did.

Somerset County Gazette: Katie Osmaston.

She sais: "I had to completely learn to ride again. My balance was terrible. I was used to spending much of my time in a wheelchair. My brain knew what to do but my body just wouldn’t do it, so I started taking weekly riding lessons."

However, earlier this year, Kate heard about a new technique based in neuroscience called Neurophysical Enhancement Training (NET) which uses psychology and mental workouts to increase physical strength and performance.

"Within 24 hours of working with my therapist Lisa Jury, I increased my grip strength by 5kg which is huge for me and my balance was much better. I couldn't believe it," she said.

"After just one week of using NET, my riding instructor noticed a huge improvement and even asked, ‘are you taking riding lessons elsewhere’? It’s taken my riding to the next level.

Somerset County Gazette:

Riding is not the only thing that has improved as Kate describes: "‘I’ve had this ongoing mental block with walking, something in my brain was just stopping me from doing it, but since having NET, it’s like the neural pathways in my brain have flicked a switch.

"Within the space of two days, I walked with crutches across the garden twice – something I haven’t done in almost 31 years."

NET is a one-to-one programme is based in neuroscience and uses psychology to focus as many neurons in the brain and body as possible to improve physical performance and endurance.

The programme includes a regular 10-minute mental workout provided by your therapist which you combine with your normal exercise routine.

Kate was so impressed with the programme that she has become a certified practitioner as well, to help other people in a similar situation.

You can learn more about Kate's journey and the programme on her website - https://www.bwrt-today.com/.