In addtion to being a client of Grant & Grant, the Brit PT is growing very rapidly and we are happy to share this information with you and to be a part of the Brit PT's success as they strive to provide excellent healthcare to their patients!

Brit PT....What’s the Difference?

 Who is the Brit PT?

     My name is Lorraine Kingham-Pitt and I am the founder of Brit PT. The business name is short and to the point, both qualities that I share, and stands for the British Physiotherapist. I was born in the southeast of England and completed my undergraduate schooling there, culminating in a Diploma in Physiotherapy (Dip Phys) in 1991from St Thomas Physiotherapy School in London, and working in London for a further 2 years following graduation. This is the equivalent to a BSc in Physical Therapy in the

USA , and once I had taken the Board exams, I could use the initials PT after my name, here. However, there are significant cultural differences in the training of PTs in the two countries which I think are important to share here.

 Physiotherapist vs. Physical Therapist   

     The biggest difference is that British Physiotherapists are trained and repeatedly tested on the practical application of their manual therapy skills. Efficacy in these skills was expected at graduation of the undergraduate degree, and approximately 1200 hours were spent honing practical and clinical skills prior to graduation. The degree was run much like an apprenticeship. In comparison, the current 5-year curriculum at a local college allows one week to cover manual therapy evaluations and treatment, and a total of 6 weeks for clinical placement. This created practical concerns about both patients and  students in my role as a clinical instructor.

 What is Manual Therapy ?

     Manual therapy is the art of using ones hands to evaluate musculoskeletal problems (of the muscle and joint systems) and to effect change. All the painful structures and many non-painful structures are manually palpated during an evaluation. Tissue length and strength are assessed, neurological screens are standardly performed, and body type and posture are evaluated. Once the mechanical problems have been identified, they are addressed through manual techniques aimed at restoring as much of the original integrity of the tissue or joint structures as is possible, therefore minimizing the potential for future compensations and the problems that causes. Exercises for strengthening and flexibility are prescribed for the patient to continue at home between sessions.

 What is an MTC?

     An MTC is a PT who is Manual Therapy Certified, which means they have had graduate level training in manipulation techniques. It is worth 17 graduate credits as each of the seven courses is approximately a week long and is followed by three months of coursework. Once all the preparatory courses are taken one may take the MTC exam which is an oral, practical and written exam in the seven subjects over the course of a week. This accounts for approximately half of the credits for the MHSc.    

 How are joint issues addressed?

     Joints are manipulated but not at high velocity, the movements are described as oscillations and tend to “ease” the joint into improved biomechanics. Many patients who have joint issues but feel uncomfortable with the chiropractic approach to their problem may find these techniques a more tolerable alternative. The soft tissue aspect of joint restrictions are also addressed with an array of techniques to reduce scar tissue, increase pliability of the tissue, restore the excursion of the joint capsule and normalize the length of the ligaments where possible. The supportive musculature may also be addressed, and as a result the joint will move more normally, it’s very movement massaging the synovial membranes and improving joint circulation, nutrition and lubrication. These are the factors that slow the formation of arthritis.

 To Conclude

     This article has attempted to provide a brief overview of the most pertinent differences in the evaluation and treatment of patients by the Brit PT. These differences start with schooling, but are complimented by a variety of experiences both in work and in life. My ultimate goal is to empower my clients by helping them understand their issues, dispelling their fears and therefore enrolling them in their self-care. Many localized problems are often 50 % improved in approximately 4-6 visits. I would be honored to serve you.

 Lorraine Kingham-Pitt, PT, MTC has a private practice at the


Lotus

Center. Please call 336-235 2730 forappointments. For further enquiries please e mail me at britpt@triad.rr.com