The Breathing MOT and an initial assessment - what's the difference when it comes to diagnosing BPD?

 If you suspect you have a breathing pattern disorder and have stumbled across the Breathing MOT website when searching online, you might wonder what the difference is between this, and an initial assessment with Air Physiotherapy.

Air Physiotherapy and The Breathing MOT were both founded by specialist respiratory physiotherapist, Emily Lockwood. 

Air Physiotherapy was set up in 2017 and is a service to help those with any kind of breathing problem, whether related to disease or not. Patients may have been diagnosed with a lung condition or breathing pattern disorder, may have undergone a range of tests, and subsequently may have been referred to Air Physiotherapy by their doctor. Air Physiotherapy is a full-spectrum respiratory physiotherapy clinic, working with people who already have diagnoses (lung disease, breathing pattern disorders, post‑surgery, Long Covid) and need treatment, rehab or advanced care in order to help manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

The Breathing MOT was set up in 2023 and is designed for people who suspect there’s something wrong with their breathing system but aren’t sure what the problem is. They might suspect they have a breathing pattern disorder but aren’t sure where to turn. The Breathing MOT offers a detailed breathing mechanics assessment for those struggling with their breathing, or those who suspect they may have a Breathing Pattern Disorder (BPD). You can think of it as a diagnostic appointment at the end of which, you will know for sure whether or not you have a breathing pattern disorder.

What each service offers

The Breathing MOT

• One‑hour assessment of your breathing pattern and mechanics including: full history gathering, physical assessment, discussion of the therapist’s findings, and a plan.

• The session will identify if you have a breathing pattern disorder, and might be driving it (mechanical, physiological or psychological triggers), and how to address your symptoms.

• At the end of the session, you will have a clear plan: an understanding of why your symptoms are occurring, and a recommendation of what can be done: usually either a referral into treatment with us (we will help you book a follow up appointment), a referral to another healthcare professional, or reassurance that your breathing appears within normal limits.

Initial Assessment with Air Physiotherapy

• For those with an existing diagnosis of a breathing pattern disorder, lung condition or complex respiratory need.

• An initial assessment consists of a one-hour appointment which includes: a full history gathering, treatment, and plan all in one session. Subsequent follow ups will also be arranged as needed.

• Offers assessment and treatment including breathing pattern retraining, airway clearance, pulmonary rehabilitation, pre/post‑surgery respiratory physiotherapy and more.

How they fit together

• The MOT essentially acts as the diagnostic gateway. If your breathing feels off, but you haven’t had clarity or tests only to find “everything is normal,” then the MOT can show whether breathing pattern disorder is the culprit, and our specialists can refer on if needed.

• Once you have that clarity, or if you already have a diagnosis and need support, Air Physiotherapy steps in to deliver treatment and rehabilitation.

Choosing which service suits you

Ask yourself:

• Do I have a diagnosis, or am I still looking for one?

  • No diagnosis, just symptoms → The Breathing MOT

  • Diagnosis or referral for physio → Air Physiotherapy

• Is my issue about pattern and mechanics of breathing, or about managing a lung condition, chest secretions, post‑surgery or rehab?

  • Mechanics/pattern alone → MOT

  • Condition/rehab → Air Physiotherapy

• Am I comfortable starting treatment now, or do I want clarity first?

  • Want clarity → MOT

  • Ready for treatment → Air Physiotherapy

Both services sit under the same umbrella of expertise but serve different stages of the breathing journey.

If you're still unsure about which service is for you, please don't hesitate to get in touch by email info@thebreathingmot.com or you can call us on 0207 971 1464.