TV presenter Nick Knowles has been forced to pay for his own treatment after suffering a knee injury during his time on Strictly Come Dancing, as the show’s insurance policy did not cover the cost. The 62 year old DIY SOS star, who was paired with professional dancer Luba Mushtuk, 35, tore his anterior cruciate ligament during a rehearsal, leading to a brief withdrawal from the competition before being voted off.
Nick recently shared updates on his recovery, including images and videos of himself wearing a brace and using crutches, and expressed his gratitude for the supportive messages he received. He revealed that he had undergone two major operations and was learning to walk up stairs again, but noted that the BBC show’s insurance had not covered the cost of his surgeries, despite the injury occurring during rehearsals.
Nick wrote: “Thank you for all the amazing messages. To answer a few questions . . . the brace helps keep it stable as I recover. No, Strictly insurance did not cover the operations. I paid for them myself but I’m hoping they will help with rehab.”
READ MORE: Nick Knowles has special words for his fiancee after he struggles to walk up stairs following surgeries
He also praised his fiancée Katie Dadzie, 34, for her unwavering support throughout his recovery, reports Birmingham Live. In a lighthearted moment, Nick joked: “In my letter to Santa, I did not have two major operations – three knee and one elbow braces, and learning to walk upstairs again – but that’s what he brought me.”
He added: “One of the most expensive Xmas holidays ever. But determined to walk normally ready for DIY SOS in February.”
Strictly Come Dancing’s Nick Knowles
(Image: Nick Knowles Instagram)
In another post, Nick shared a glimpse into the rigorous rehab regimen for his injured knee, which includes using an “equine knee therapy unit”, pressure leggings, wet cupping and a cryogenic cuff.
He mentioned, “I’m taking turmeric, collagen and various other supplements to promote healing. Will try anything at this stage to get back moving normally.”
The financial toll of Nick’s knee surgery has been noted as being significant, with costs for similar procedures running privately in the region of £8,000. A friend of Nick disclosed to The Sun: “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.”
It is understood that while Strictly participants are insured by the programme, not every injury is covered, necessitating the need for personal insurance as well.