PHYSIO Chris Aldred is a dedicated England fan but his loyalties are being tested during this World Cup tournament after his back pain device went in the Australian team’s kit bag.

Chris, who runs the MyPhysio clinic in Station Parade, Harrogate, said he also researches and develops treatments for lower back pain.

He said that one of these treatments, a device called Pelvipro, had proved so successful in reducing his patients’ back pain that he took the decision last year to launch it to the wider market.

He said word spread about the benefits of it, with a Championship football club introducing the device during gym work and before training sessions.

It then came to the attention of the Australian football squad – known as The Socceroos – who liked it so much that they had taken it with them to the World Cup.

He said it was also being used by BBC World Cup commentator Guy Mowbray, who lives in York.

Guy, 46, who covered England’s opening game against Tunisia on Monday, said: “My Pelvipro is in my bag at the World Cup.

“I’ve been using it for just over a year to relieve my lower back pain which stems from the wear and tear of playing amateur cricket.

“Pelvipro is part of a combined approach to helping relieve my back pain, and it certainly makes a difference.

“ It’s a great warm-up tool for sport and activity, so I use it before I play cricket, go to the gym or walk the dog.”

Chris said Pelvipro’s ball and lever device realigned the pelvis, which put the individual in the correct left/right balance and, in turn, put the spine and hips in their optimal position.

“This offers maximum range of the joints and enables the muscles to work at their most efficient, and therefore effective, length.

“It means that people playing sport experience that little bit extra performance,” he said.

“I couldn’t be more delighted that The Socceroos have recognised Pelvipro’s benefits and see it as a useful tool to keep them in top shape at the World Cup.

“I really hope it helps them progress in the competition, and I’ll definitely be cheering them on – along with England, of course!” he added.