Endometriosis and Jaw Pain: Uncovering a Real, Underrecognized Link

Endometriosis is widely understood as a condition that causes pelvic pain, heavy periods, and painful intercourse. Many do not realize that it can cause and be related to other issues including gastrointestinal, bladder, and it may also be connected to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction and jaw pain. Recent research and health reporting are shining light …

Why So Much Pain in Perimenopause & Menopause?

If you’re in your 40s or 50s and suddenly dealing with hip or shoulder pain, especially things like gluteal tendon pain or rotator cuff issues, you’re not alone. And honestly, sometimes these changes can begin in mid to late 30s for some women. Many women I see in my clinic don’t expect it: they come …

Three Simple Habits That Can Help Prevent Back Pain

Back pain is unfortunately so common that most people will experience it at least once in their life. There are many reasons that one can experience back pain, but sometimes it is simply because we are not doing enough activities. Back pain is one of those things that sneaks up on most of us at …

Endometriosis: It is more than just period pain

When you hear “endometriosis,” what comes to mind? If you said painful periods, you’re not wrong—but that’s not even the full picture. As a physical therapist, I see firsthand how this condition impacts the whole body, not just the reproductive system. So, let’s break it down and talk about what’s really going on, why it’s …

Women Are More Prone to Plantar Fasciitis: Pregnancy & Menopause

Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, affects millions of people worldwide, but women are at a notably higher risk than men. This disparity arises from a combination of biological, structural, and lifestyle factors. There is also evidence supporting the role that hormonal changes can play in developing plantar fasciitis. Let’s dive into why …

Let’s Talk About PCOS: What It Is and How to Manage It

September is PCOS awareness month and I wanted to chat with you about something that between 8-13% of women deal with but don’t always talk about—Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS. If you’ve ever heard of it or even been diagnosed with it, you know it can be a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry, I’m here …

Pubic Symphysis Pain

What is Pubic Symphysis Pain? The pubic symphysis is a joint located at the front of the pelvis, where the left and right pubic bones meet. Pain at this location is sometimes referred to as symphysis pubic dysfunction (SPD) or pelvic girdle pain (PGP). PGP is a more general term general and can refer to …

Understanding Fibroids: Symptoms and Management

Background Information Fibroids are benign tumors that grow in or on the uterus. While they are generally benign, they can cause significant discomfort and complications for many women. Fibroids are composed of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary greatly in size. Some are microscopic, while others can grow large enough to distort the uterus. …

Understanding Diastasis Recti In Pregnancy & Postpartum 

Diastasis Recti (DRA), often referred to as abdominal separation, is a condition common in pregnant women and can also occur in men and infants. It’s characterized by the stretching or thinning of the connective tissue between the rectus abdominis muscles, causing the abdomen to protrude or even sink in towards the center. While it is …

Vaginismus: How to Overcome

Somewhere between 5-17% of women are impacted with vaginismus in the United States. Women who complain of vaginismus related symptoms have pain and/or anxiety with penetration at the vaginal region. There are some women who experience vaginismus in response to an event that may or may not be traumatic. Other women experience vaginismus without any …