Nick Knowles continues rehabilitation after major operations
Nick Knowles has to pay for surgery on his leg after suffering an injury during his time on Strictly Come Dancing this year.
The BBC insurance policy does not provide coverage for the injury sustained by the DIY SOS star, who suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament while rehearsing for this year's series.
This unfortunate incident caused him and his professional dance partner, Luba Mushtuk, 35, to withdraw from the competition temporarily.
However, after a brief hiatus, they were ultimatel voted off by the audience. During his recovery, the TV star has been open about his journey, sharing pictures and videos on social media documenting his rehabilitation.
In these posts, he can be seen using crutches and wearing a supportive brace, giving fans a glimpse into his challenges as he works towards recovery.
He said: “Thank you for all the amazing messages. To answer a few questions... the brace helps keep it stable as I recover."
He expressed that he “couldn’t have done it” without the unwavering support of his fiancée, Katie Dadzie, who is 34 years old.
Nick added a touch of humour to his situation, remarking, “In my letter to Santa, I certainly didn’t include requests for two major surgeries, three knee braces, and one elbow brace.
"I didn’t foresee having to relearn how to walk upstairs. But that’s the reality of what Santa delivered me this year. It was one of the most costly Christmas holidays I’ve ever experienced.”
Despite these unexpected challenges, Nick is resolute in his goal: “I am determined to walk normally again in time for the DIY SOS project scheduled in February.”
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In a separate post, he shared images that vividly illustrate his extensive efforts to rehabilitate his injured knee.
These images reflect his determination and the rigorous and diverse methods he is employing to regain his mobility.
He has included therapies such as an equine knee therapy unit, which uses horses' movement to aid in rehabilitation; pressure leggings designed to improve circulation and reduce swelling; wet cupping, which is believed to enhance blood flow and relieve pain; and a cryogenic cuff that applies cold therapy to minimise inflammation.
Nick mentioned, “I’m taking turmeric, collagen, and a variety of other supplements to promote healing.”
He added, “I will try anything at this stage to get back to moving normally,” emphasising his eagerness to return to regular activities.
His time on Strictly was already threatened when he sustained a bicep injury while changing a tyre on the motorway. That injury required surgical intervention, highlighting his recent physical challenges.
After damaging his knee, he and Luba only had a few days to practise their Charleston, which earned them a score of 21 from the judges, leaving them in the bottom two.
They then lost the dance-off in October to Shayne Ward and Nancy Xu.
Nick’s bill is believed to have run into the thousands — with some private ACL ops costing £8,000.
One pal said: “Nick was gutted the injury ultimately cost him his time on the show. He was determined to do as well as he could and fought through the pain barrier.
"He did himself proud, but now he faces a long and expensive road to recovery. It’s a bitter pill to swallow.”
