» Why Katie Really Understands

Katie began competition swimming at nine years old and by 15 was representing Kent, at this time she was also a Kent long distance runner and 1500 metre athlete. As her training increased, sadly, so did Katie's joint pain. Over time the pain increased and despite regular appointments with her GP, consultants and Physiotherapists no diagnosis was made and questions remained unanswered. Rather than excelling in her chosen sports Katie was forced to reduce training levels and competition standard. Whilst training to be a Physiotherapist, Katie was advised to leave the degree programme due to reduced strength to manage a caseload or work in a ward environment. This simply fuelled Katie's determination to fulfil her ambition to be a Physiotherapist and the lack of understanding she was receiving infuriated her.

It was finally a specialist Rheumatologist who diagnosed Hypermobility Syndrome with Marfanoid Habitus. This condition explained all Katie's symptoms and enabled her to accept the ongoing pain and her restriction of activities. Katie could now understand her suffering and began work on reducing the by now, progressively increasing symptoms. Katie saw a Physiotherapist in London with a similar condition and this helped her to formulate a plan. To see someone who understood really helped Katie after the years of being ignored, and in her opinion, neglected. Katie dedicated six months to rebuilding muscle and confidence. Over this time she managed to re-introduce basic exercise into her life and her goal of completing her degree was back on track.

After graduating, Katie knew that it would not be realistic to embark upon the traditional rotational employment and considering she had nine years experience of pain management behind her she accepted an outpatient post specialising in exercise prescription. Pilates formed a major part of Katie's own rehabilitation and she was determined to learn more about teaching Pilates in order to share this experience. Katie had been let down in the past by the restrictions of the NHS and knew that private practice was where she could make the most impact to help her patients. By networking with local Physiotherapists, GPs and consultants she sourced a referral network and word of mouth recommendation soon developed. Katie draws upon her experience and education to help her patients feel at ease, not intimidated and not worried to admit that they cannot do an exercise.

Patients have trust in Katie as they understand that when they describe the pain they are suffering, Katie may have experienced that pain too. Katie's exercise plan truly understands her patients needs which is why they have such faith in her. Someone who had not experienced pain and such lows may get frustrated with a patient who says they cannot do a basic move. Katie truly understands as she has been there. All movements can be adapted and no movement should be expected from a patient, Katie knows how frustrating it is to be expected to be able to complete an exercise and would never put a patient through this embarrassment and insecurity.

If her experience can be used to stop others from suffering, then the hard work and dedication she has shown throughout her career is well justified. She has now committed herself to being there for others that need support and her expertise. If her experience can be used to stop others from suffering then the hard work and dedication she has shown throughout her career is justified. Katie has a great passion in developing both Prescribed Pilates and her Physiotherapy practice and will continue to give her all to both for as long as her patients are benefiting from and enjoying the treatment she gives.