Toby Smith

Toby Smith is a Professor of Musculoskeletal Research at the School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia (UEA), and holds a clinical role as a Senior Physiotherapist in Trauma and Orthopaedics at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Trust. His expertise centers on musculoskeletal disorders, hip/knee pathologies, and post-surgical rehabilitation. He has led or co-led over £15 million in grants and published over 300 peer-reviewed papers.

Education:

• Master of Arts in Higher Education Practice (UEA, 2013)
• Doctor of Philosophy (UEA, 2012)
• Master of Science in Health Sciences (UEA, 2007)
• Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy (UEA, 2002)

Research Interests: Toby focuses on rehabilitation strategies for musculoskeletal conditions, pragmatic clinical trials, and promoting physical activity in elderly populations. Key areas include post-hip/knee surgery recovery, caregiver interventions, and pain management. Recent projects include the HIP HELPER feasibility study (caregiver support post-hip fracture) and the PEP-TALK trial (behavioral physiotherapy for post-replacement activity).

Grants & Leadership:

• Director of Postgraduate Research at UEA’s School of Health Sciences
• NIHR-funded trials (e.g., MeTeOR2, RACER-HIP)
• Associate Editor for Physiotherapy and Clinical Rehabilitation
• NICE Committee member (Health Technology Appraisal and Hip/Knee/Shoulder Replacement Guidelines)

Collaborations: Active in multidisciplinary teams across UK institutions, with collaborations focusing on musculoskeletal disorders, trauma systems, and rehabilitation innovation.