Archive for May 13th, 2009
Physical Therapy vs. Massage Therapy
13 May 2009I was just looking over this PebMed research entry for CST (Craniosacral Therapy) and MFR Myofascial Release) being included in the entry-level PTs (Physical Therapist) Curricula. The majority of PTs were against having it. Could it be lack of education, or is it that they just want to leave the manual manipulations up to the Massage Therapists.
In the past I have talked with a few PTs that have given me this impression. I don’t know many and I have had only one say that he does actually use manual therapy techniques to release and strengthen his clients injured muscles. On the other hand the others told me they want to distinguish themselves apart from MTs and stick to helping them improve through exercise and strength training. My question to one PT was how many of her clients actually sought out an MT during PT treatments? She said she didn’t know any. Now this may be that she isn’t getting a full intake assessment or she stays away from referring clients to MTs or doesn’t really want a fast full recovery. Who knows, I have only had a few minutes to chat. The only PT I talked with at length was one on my table and he was the one who tried manual therapies to aid his clients.
In the beginning of Nursing there was in conjunction Massage curriculum, over time it was dismissed and PTs were born. Yet again Massage was part of the beginning stages of PTs but was also taken out of the curriculum. Now we have Massage that encompasses CE’s that can be obtained. Really any Manual therapy can be added to the base of Massage. So I wonder what CEs do PTs have to have. Is it refreshers on what they have already learned and are they limited?
In my quick look up of PT CEUs it was mostly wound treatment, stress management and Insurance billing info. While these things are important, what ever happened to broadening your horizons and helping the client’s quality of life in a more permanent effective way?
I probably need to talk to more PTs. I am sure their must be more that would encompass helpful tools for the enhancements of their treatments.